Chef Phanuphon “Black” Bulsuwan has been in Chiang Mai for so long that people think he’s a Northern native. However, the owner of Blackitch (Recommended, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024) is actually from Eastern Thailand. The engineer-turned-chef was born in Si Racha, Chon Buri, a region he still considers home. Currently, he’s dedicated to studying Eastern Thai cuisine more deeply for a book that will recommend and help preserve the region’s flavours.
Where will this eastern native take us? Let’s take a look below.
A decent spot for street food. (© Chakngeaw Chinese Village)
For street food: Chakngeaw Old Chinese Market
“Every Saturday, a walking street takes over Chakngeaw Chinese Village in Pattaya. The village is a charming Thai Chinese community. Apart from long-standing buildings and Chinese-influenced shops, you can enjoy countless street food such as zongzi, crab jujube (Hoi Jo or deep-fried crab meat roll), and other delicious dishes.”Chak Ngaew Old Chinese Market is located in a centuries-old Thai Chinese community, once a prosperous commercial district. From 3 pm on Saturdays, visitors can explore a bustling walking street. Each side is lined with traditional buildings and shops exuding retro Chinese vibes. Ride on a rickshaw and stop for photos at chic corners. The highlight is the wide array of Chinese-influenced street food on offer. Enjoy steamed rice noodles, zongzi, braised pork with steamed buns, Chinese chive dumplings, fried taro rolls (Guangjian), Chinese pan-fried glutinous rice cakes (Galorgee), and other delicacies along the entire street.
Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
The serene Yinyom Beach in Chon Buri. (© Shutterstock)
For some quiet beach time: Yinyom Beach
“Yinyom Beach is quieter. You don’t see as many city views as you would on other beaches. But the sunset view there is breathtaking. There are a lot of activities for both locals and visitors to enjoy. You can jog, walk a dog, or fish. It’s less crowded and more serene.”When people talk about beaches, they tend to think of Pattaya, Jomtien, or Ban Amphur Beach. But Yinyom Beach in Pattaya Tai is just as beautiful and far more serene. It’s also close to the Phra Tamnak Mountain Viewpoint. Bulsuwan recommends Yinyom Beach for those who want a slower pace to their day. You can read a book by the seaside and sunbathe all day long without much interruption. There are also water sports to enjoy, such as surfing or sailing. This beach is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss.
Jomtien Beach Road, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
Care for a nice cup of coffee? (© Harudot Chon Buri by Nana Coffee Roasters)
For a good cup of coffee: Harudot Chon Buri by Nana Coffee Roasters
“Nana Coffee Roasters is a well-known name in coffee. The branch’s interior and landscape are so photogenic that it’s become a popular check-in destination for both locals and visitors when they’re in Pattaya, Chon Buri.”The seaside cities of Chon Buri and Pattaya are packed with great cafés. One of the standouts is Harudot Chon Buri by Nana Coffee Roasters. Along with superb coffee, drinks, and snacks, the interior and garden are equally as aesthetic. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the baobab tree, Nana’s symbol, after you’ve finished your coffee and checked in.
Soi Nartmontasevee 30/10, Samet Sub-District, Mueang Chon Buri District, Chon Buri.
Freshly made seafood ready to be served. (© Shutterstock)
For a seafood feast: Lan Pho Na Kluea Market
“The Old Na Kluea Market never fails to impress me. You can pick any seafood and ask the vendors to cook it fresh—prawns, clams, crabs, fish, or anything else. Everything can be grilled, fried, or steamed. The vendors are happy to accommodate all your needs. In the evening, spread out your blankets in the seaside park and enjoy dinner with a stunning sunset in the background.”Lan Pho Na Kluea Market, or Old Na Kluea Market, sits right by the sea, meaning the seafood here is incredibly fresh, coming straight from the fishing boats. There are dining areas where you can tuck into Chon Buri’s local delicacies, fresh and at a great price. Head over in the evening to catch the sunset. It’s quieter on weekdays, so bring a picnic mat or rent one on-site to soak up the sea breeze.
Na Kluea Sub-District, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
Sunset in Pattaya. (© Shutterstock)
For the best sunset view: Pattaya City Sign Viewpoint
“There are plenty of sunset spots in Pattaya, but my personal favourite is this viewpoint at Bali Hai Pier. From here, I can watch the sunset behind the Pattaya City sign. It’s even more breathtaking if you catch it from a nearby skyscraper.”The Pattaya City Sign is a landmark in Pattaya, Chon Buri. Perched on a high hill, the giant letters are visible from a higher vantage point. Visit in the evening for a breathtaking vista, with the sunset as the perfect backdrop to the sign. There are also other great sunset spots to explore, including Jomtien Beach, Phra Tamnak Mountain Viewpoint, and the Sanctuary of Truth.
Moo 6, North Pattaya Road, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
Ko Lan, a short distance away from Pattaya. (© Shutterstock)
For a crystal-clear blue sea odyssey: Ko Lan
“Ko Lan is a small island easily accessible from Pattaya. The water there is incredibly clear, making it the perfect spot for a day out with friends and family. The island is compact, so you can easily explore every corner. Each beach has its own unique charm.”Ko Lan is a sub-district of Pattaya. The island may be small in size, just 4.7 km², but it's huge in terms of popularity with both locals and visitors. Not only is it close to Bangkok, but getting there is also incredibly convenient. Hop on a speedboat or take the ferry from Bali Hai Pier. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay, accommodation options cater to every budget.
Ko Lan, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
The vibrant nightlife of Pattaya. (© Shutterstock)
For a vibrant nightlife scene: Pattaya Walking Street
“Pattaya Walking Street is Chon Buri’s most colourful entertainment hub, packed with pubs, restaurants, and shops. It’s an interesting spot for a lively night out on your first visit to Pattaya.”Pattaya Walking Street is the city’s main commercial hub, drawing visitors from all over the world. You can explore restaurants, souvenir shops, sports equipment outlets, and more by day. When night falls, the street transforms into a buzzing entertainment district. It's an interesting spot where you can people-watch. Enjoy spectacular shows and soak up the vibrant nightlife at the heart of Pattaya City.
Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
Located in Chon Buri, Takhian Tia is a community steeped in tradition. (© Takhian Tia Community/ Facebook)
For a dip in cultural experience: Takhian Tia Community
“Takhian Tia is a traditional community in Chon Buri, with the standout attraction being Baan Roi Sao, a house built with hundreds of pillars. The community has managed to preserve its local traditions, and you can experience them through various activities, from farming and crafting to tie-dying, and more.”The Takhian Tia Community is building a tourism destination rooted in their wisdom. Coconut, a local cash crop, bridges the tech-driven world with the community’s simple way of life. Cycle through the coconut plantation before savouring traditional dishes passed down through generations.
Takhian Tia Sub-District, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
The Sanctuary of Truth, the country’s most iconic timber castle. (© Shutterstock)
For an unmissable visit: Sanctuary of Truth
“You must visit the Sanctuary of Truth when you’re in Chon Buri. It’s a spectacular wooden structure, packed with intricate details. The sunset view, with the magnificent castle as its backdrop, is simply glorious.”The Sanctuary of Truth is the largest wooden castle in Thailand. The structure is supported by 170 hardwood pillars, adorned with intricate wood carvings that tell the stories of religious and philosophical beliefs.
Pattaya-Na Kluea Road, Muang Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
Underwater World Pattaya is the perfect spot for family fun while exploring the wonders of marine life. (© Shutterstock)
For family time: Underwater World Pattaya
"Underwater World Pattaya is a massive aquarium showcasing marine life. No matter how young or old, every family member can find something to enjoy."Underwater World Pattaya is home to 5,000 species of sea creatures, displayed along its 105-metre tunnels. There are activities the whole family can enjoy together, including watching divers feed fish and snapping photos with glowing jellyfish. Pattaya and Chon Buri also boast other attractions that spark learning and curiosity, such as Nong Nooch Botanical Garden, Art in Paradise Pattaya, and Mini Siam. Don’t miss the chance to meet the celebrity hippo ‘Moo Deng’ and her siblings at Khao Kheow Open Zoo.
Sukhumvit Road, Nong Prue Sub-district, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri.
Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippo – a global sensation. (© Shutterstock)
Chef Bulsuwan’s recommendations showcase how charming Chon Buri can be. But there are plenty of other places to explore in this seaside town, just a stone’s throw from Bangkok. It’s packed with natural beauty and home to the zoo where the world-famous pygmy hippo resides. Soon, landmarks meeting international standards will be opening as well. Both local and visiting tourists are sure to have the ultimate experience in Chon Buri.
So, shall we pack our bags now?
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READ FURTHER: Chon Buri City Guide: Uncover Bangkok’s Nearest Seaside City
Illustration image © Jirawat Veerakul/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand
Illustration image © Jirawat Veerakul/ MICHELIN Guide Thailand
This post is brought to you in partnership with Tourism Authority of Thailand
