Ubon Ratchathani offers more than just stunning attractions and mouthwatering Isan cuisine. Did you know that this northeastern Thai gem is a melting pot of cultures, showcasing the flavours of neighbouring countries all in one place?
On your next trip to Ubon, be sure to bookmark these delicious, budget-friendly dining spots, each proudly recognised with a Bib Gourmand distinction from the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024 edition.
A legendary restaurant in Ubon Ratchathani. (© Pornchai Duchada/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand)
Indochine (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)
This family-run restaurant has been serving customers for over 50 years, with everyone pitching in to cook and serve with dedication. The décor is simple vintage, creating a cosy atmosphere with its old wooden furniture and tables made from antique sewing machines. Regulars keep coming back to enjoy the delicious Thai-Vietnamese dishes, such as the Vietnamese rice cake with grille pork, the signature nem nuong comes in a big basket with a mix of fresh local vegetables.170 Sappasit Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Ubon Ratchathani, Ubon Ratchathani. Tel. +66 45 245 584.
Agave is named after the owner's passion for the plant. (© Michelin)
Agave (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)
Named after the owner’s love for the agave plant, this establishment offers an inviting atmosphere adorned with ornamental greenery. The Vietnamese dishes here are made with fresh, homemade ingredients such as fish noodles, Vietnamese sausage, and fish rolls, with the popular nem nuong featuring fish for those who prefer it. The rice paper here also comes ready to eat. Our Inspectors recommend pork or fish sausage for the nem nuong. Don't miss the standout sticky rice waffle served with sun-dried pork, infused with local Isan flavours.153 Phalorangrit Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Ubon Ratchathani, Ubon Ratchathani. Tel. +66 45 900 241.
Mok, a Bib Gourmand eatery celebrating Thai flavours. (© Michelin)
Mok (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)
Settle in at this Thai restaurant, where meals are served in a cosy, homey style, much like dining at a friend’s house. There's a balcony area where you can relax and enjoy the refreshing greenery. The recipes are passed down through generations, and the owner-chef, a culinary graduate, carefully selects ingredients and crafts each dish with precision. Be sure to try the local seabass steamed in banana leaves and the salted egg dip with sweet and tangy pineapple – both highly recommended. The restaurant also offers a special daily set menu for 2-3 people, as well as a tasting menu that must be pre-booked according to the chef's announcements.115 Phrommarat Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Ubon Ratchathani, Ubon Ratchathani. Tel +66 9 5292 4622.
Chef Jinda’s Isan flavours have been delighting diners since 1974. (© Michelin)
Som Tum Jinda (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)
Chef Jinda opened her first restaurant back in 1974 before relocating to the current site, where a small parking area is available in the adjacent alley. The restaurant features both air-conditioned dining areas and private rooms for group gatherings. Specialising in Isan cuisine, the dishes are packed with bold, authentic flavours. She selects ingredients from various sources, ensuring top quality and freshness. Be sure to try local favourites like the spicy fish roe stew and the crispy catfish papaya salad, both highly recommended. With such exceptional culinary skills, it's no surprise that they have also opened another branch in Laos.63/1 Phichitrangsan Road, Nai Mueang, Mueang Ubon Ratchathani, Ubon Ratchathani. Tel. +66 45 255 223.
Unwind with a sunset view over the Mun River. (© Michelin)
View Mun (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)
Stop by to enjoy the calm sunset view of the Mun River and catch a glimpse of the local fishermen's way of life. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect spot to unwind. The menu offers a grand selection of local fish, deboned, in a quintessentially Isan style. The terrace seats are made from dark tree stumps set around rugged wooden tables.289 Mu 7, Mu Ban Thap Thai, Chaeramae, Mueang Ubon Ratchathani, Ubon Ratchathani. Tel. +66 9 4538 3939.
Stunning river views and flavour-packed Thai-Isan cuisine at Pae Araya. (© Michelin)
Pae Araya (Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)
Nestled at the meeting point of the Mekong and Mun Rivers, this floating restaurant—named ‘Noble Raft’—is a must-visit for fans of central Thai and Isan cuisine. Dive into delicious dishes like the Tom Yum redtail catfish and local roe paired with fresh herbs; both are bursting with flavour and come highly recommended. Enjoy your meal while the gentle river breezes and passing boats create a serene atmosphere. Make sure to arrive early to catch breathtaking sunset views over the river and the stunning Laotian landscape.Rim Khong Road, Khong Chiam, Ubon Ratchathani, Ubon Ratchathani. Tel. +66 8 9624 4004.
READ FURTHER: 8 Places to Eat in Khon Kaen on a Budget
Illustration image: © Michelin
