5 Best Restaurants in Udon Thani

Samuay & Sons is a must-try in Udon Thani if you’re looking for a fresh and innovative perspective on Thai classics. The menu changes with the seasons. It features Thai and Isan standards and fresh entrees created with a modern twist that unites the culinary past with the present. Most ingredients are grown organically at local farms, and they forage for others used in their recipes.

At Samuay & Sons, enjoy the traditional classics or take a journey into what a new future looks like for Thai cuisine.

Madame Phatehh presides over a bustling, chic place known for its unique Thai, Vietnamese and French-influenced entrees. The Thai dishes are undoubtedly popular, and there are intriguing options for other styles of food. Consider branching out and trying the highly recommended Three Friends Sandwich or any item made with the tasty French-style bread.

Madame Phatehh can be challenging to find – look for the lanterns that adorn the storefront or hand-written signs with daily offerings out on the walkway. The restaurant is open early for breakfast and offers brunch and lunch through mid-afternoon.

Taw Baw Pla Pao is a bit off the beaten path in Udon Thani, so it’ll take some effort to get there for its most famous fish dish, pla pao. It is well worth the effort, nevertheless. The pla pao here is made with one of northern Thailand's most popular freshwater fish, tilapia. The entire tilapia is stuffed with herbs, broiled and served whole along with a flavorful Thai seafood dipping sauce and sticky rice.

Most of the menu at Taw Baw Pla Pao is devoted to different dishes featuring tilapia – the laab pla (lightly minced tilapia with laab spices) is another beloved entree. The touted green papaya salad, aromatic and spicy, complements any fish dish.

Bueng Mai Hom, located on the edge of a lake and away from the bustle of the city, provides a peaceful setting for enjoying traditional Thai cuisine. The menu is extensive, the staff attentive, and the ambience ideal for romantics.

Whole seabass and soft shell crab in black pepper are among the many must-tries. Besides the tasty authentic Thai cuisine, the magical setting of the lake and grounds make it a popular dining spot in Udon Thani. The location is also popular for celebrations, weddings and birthdays due to the delightful and spacious atmosphere.

Barn Naa Cafe is a cool restaurant in Udon Thani serving traditional Thai vegetarian entrees, European-style desserts, coffees, teas and smoothies. The interiors are light, airy and spacious, while the surrounding gardens and grounds are verdant.

Must-tries at Barn Naa Cafe include their lemon meringue pie, strawberry shortcake and coconut cake. The passion fruit smoothie is also delightfully refreshing. Regulars enjoy the relaxing ambience and make it a spot to briefly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of Udon Thani’s city centre.