Places to Eat in Trat
As one of the cheapest destinations in Thailand, Trat doesn’t disappoint when it comes to local food that is both super cheap and delicious. In addition to several markets, there are also a few bakeries, restaurants and even a bar or two.
Backpackers will definitely be at home here, as there are lots of places where you can eat for under THB30 per person.
There aren’t really any upmarket restaurants here, so most places will be affordable unless you are on an extremely tight budget. The most expensive restaurants are of course those specializing in Western cuisine.
Street Food
For an authentic Thai food experience, the night market (side street of Sukhumvit Rd, next to the Trad Hotel) is an absolute must-visit, even if you just go to enjoy some local culture or a quick snack before dinner. But if like us, you are happy to eat local street food every evening, this is the best place to go for the most delicious and varied selection of dishes. Curries, seafood, BBQ, fresh fruit, sweet treats, noodle soups, rice dishes – you name it, they probably have it! Most of the food sold here is under THB30 per dish, and can be taken away or enjoyed in the seating area found in the market square.
It’s also a great place to come and enjoy the sights and smells, and enjoy a cold beer or two.
The night market is open every day from 5pm to 9pm, but there are also a few food stalls nearby that stay open much later.
Close by to the night market is a roofed day market called Talad Sod, which is a great place to come and check out the local produce, including vegetables, fruit, meat and fish. There are also several stalls where you can buy cooked duck and chicken, plus a food court selling cheap favourites such as pad thai and fried rice. This is also a must-visit for those who enjoy people watching, as many locals come here to do their shopping!
Thai Food
In the old quarter, there are several restaurants, coffee spots, bakeries and even a couple of places to get Western food.
Pier 12 (132/2 Thana Charoen) is a good choice for dinner, with a lovely garden setting and a chilled out vibe. They serve great, freshly made curries and there are a few vegetarian options on the menu too.
For a true local experience, Namchok Restaurant (Wi Watthana Road) might not look particularly inviting, but it serves some of the best Thai food in Trat, at very reasonable prices. Everything is made fresh to order, and the tom yum soup is superb.
Sang Fah Restaurant (Sukhumvit Road) is also another great place to try Thai food, but prices are a bit higher.
Western and International Food
Surprisingly, the most popular tourist dining spot in Trat is Joy’s Pizza (Soi Tha Ruea Chang). It’s the perfect spot if you find yourself craving some Western comfort food, with many visitors raving about the quality of the pizza here. In addition to pizzas, they also serve pasta, steaks, salads and crepes. The owners are very friendly and welcoming, and the prices are not bad considering it’s a Western restaurant.
If Joy’s is full, Orchid Pizza (92 Lakmuang Road) is also a good option. Or, if you are in the mood for Western food but not pizza, there’s also Sarita Tapas Bar & Restaurant (5 Rat Anusorn Road). They serve lots of tasty Mexican dishes, including some vegetarian options, and the owner is very friendly and welcoming.
Cafes and Coffee Houses
The old quarter also has some great spots for coffee, baked goods and Thai style snacks.
Coffee and More (in the Rimklong Boutique Hotel) is where to go for fresh coffee and fruit shakes, and then head to one of the small stalls nearby selling Thai sweets and fried snacks – the perfect breakfast on the move! There’s also a bakery close by to the night market, that serves both Thai and Western style baked goods, and a drinks stand can be found next door.
Outside Trat
Finally, if you decide to venture to the southeast coast of Trat, make sure to stop by at Hat Ploy Dang (Sukhumvit Road, near Phloi Kaeo beach) for lunch or dinner. The seafood is fresh and delicious, and it’s a nice place to enjoy some ocean views.
