Khon Kaen, a major city in Thailand's Isan region, is presently one of the country's most exciting food hubs, boasting an ever-growing food scene as locals are returning to their hometown to revitalize it after the pandemic.
Nestled in Thailand's northeastern region, Khon Kaen is home to an eclectic array of gastronomic wonders, showcasing a blend of flavours from Isan cuisine, traditional Thai dishes, and a fusion of regional influences. Here, the streets come alive with the aromas of sizzling grills, vibrant spices, and the bustling energy of local markets, inviting visitors to explore and indulge in a world of delectable treats, offering everything from comforting street food to upscale dining experiences.
Unsure of what to expect? Imagine bold, spicy, and tangy flavors dancing together in perfect harmony. It's all about the zingy papaya salad (Som Tam), which can be fiery hot or refreshingly tangy, grilled meats (think beautifully grilled chicken, aka Kai Yang - yum!), and those lip-smackingly good Larb salads bursting with herbs and spices. Isan food is undoubtedly a rollercoaster ride for your taste buds—exciting, diverse, and utterly satisfying.
Here are the perfect places recommended in the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023, allowing you to make the most of your Khon Kaen trip while staying pocket-friendly.
Leng Yentafo (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023)
Upon departing Bangkok’s Chinatown in 1984 for Khon Kaen, Mr. Leng carried with him a secret recipe for Yentafo, commonly known as pink noodle soup, and established his own eatery. His renowned specialty dish, composed of delectable noodles, fresh fishballs, shrimp balls, fish wontons, and a flavourful broth, remains a cherished delight for diners.
Address: Glang Muang Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen. Tel. +66 8 6580 1259.
Khon Kaen Grilled Pork Neck (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023)
One of Khon Kaen's highly sought-after street food destinations, this grill station stands out for its signature dish—grilled pork neck served with rice. The tender, sweet, and savoury marinated meat harmonizes flawlessly with the accompanying spicy tamarind sauce. Additionally, their spicy salad and soup are highly recommended.
Address: 77/4 Glang Muang Road, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen. Tel. +66 9 4364 9955.
Baan Heng (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023)
Baan Heng was born out of a souvenir and grocery shop the owners’ grandparents started in 1957 called Heng Nguan Hiang. It sold products like homemade Chinese sausage, pork floss, and pork jerky. Now, the restaurant serves Thai-Chinese breakfast fare, like their signature Baan Heng sandwich and baked rice with sweet pork sausage in a remodelled wood-themed design that exudes old-school vibes. Add a classic hot Thai black coffee or milk tea for the full effect.
Address: 54/2 Glang Muang Road, Nai Mueang, Khon Kaen. Tel. +66 9 2626 2236.
Prasit Pochana (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023)
This family-operated shophouse eatery, established in 1972, specialises in traditional Isan pork and beef dishes. Guided by their motto of using premium beef cuts for flavourful cuisine, their offerings such as fried sun-dried beef slices, pork sausages, and spicy beef liver salad are affordable, satisfying, and served with a friendly demeanor.
Address: 44/4 Amat Road, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen. Tel. +66 4323 9740.
Jok Guay Jab Tom Sen Bat Queue (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023)
The name of this establishment also serves as its menu (along with a reference to the queue numbers they provide). In English, it would be: “Shredded Chicken Congee, Five-Spice Vietnamese Vermicelli Soup With Chicken Feet, Vietnamese Rice Noodle Soup With Pork Ribs Queue.” The consistently large crowds serve as evidence of its quality.
Address: Na Mueang Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen. Tel. +66 8 6646 5056.
Khun Jaeng Guay Tiew Pak Mor Kao Wang (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023)
The rice dumplings and tapioca balls served here have a rich history—previously sold by the chef's mother in Bangkok for over 30 years, and the chef herself crafted these delicacies for the royal family. While all the offerings are commendable, the dumplings paired with Tom Yam soup stand out as particularly delicious.
Address: 246/4 Lang Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen. Tel. +66 8 5000 1668.
Tumkratoei Sagate (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023)
Hailing from Roi Et province, the owner brings authentic flavours to this establishment, providing friendly service and budget-friendly prices in a laid-back atmosphere. Highly recommended is their signature spicy seafood salad featuring fermented fish sauce. Beyond their exceptional Som Tam dishes, standout options include fried sour fish and a spicy chicken soup served with glass noodles. Guests have the choice of indoor or outdoor seating, and the experience is enhanced with nightly live music.
Address: Airport Road, Baan Ped, Mueang Khon Kaen, Khon Kaen. Tel. +66 6 5962 8949.
Praprai (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2023)
Make a pit stop at this uncomplicated eatery situated in front of Khon Kaen Airport to elevate your arrival or departure experience. Prapai's amiable owners have been dishing out authentic Isan cuisine crafted from fresh local ingredients for over two decades, adapting their offerings according to seasonal produce. To savour traditional Isan flavours, indulge in their outstanding grilled spotted knife fish or crispy deep-fried sour fish. Seating options include indoor settings with air conditioning or outdoor spaces featuring a live music stage.
Address: 345/1-2 Airport Road, Baan Ped, Mueang Khon Kaen. Tel. +66 8 1974 9853.
