Ya Teng Homestay

This place near Bang Saen beach has been popular with tourists for decades. The signature is, of course, pla tu (Thai mackerel), but the menu extends from seafood options such as sillago, sea bass and local scallops – all cooked in classic Thai style – to crispy deep-fried mackerel cheek with a chilli-garlic aroma that's addictive. If you prefer a milder taste, the staff are happy to adjust the spice level to suit your palate.

Attracting younger diners, this eatery has a reputation for fresh, affordable Thai seafood of uncompromising quality. The generous portions with sweet seasonings are good for sharing; the deep-fried mackerel with fish sauce is a must for its crispy skin and tender meat.

With its wooden furniture and rustic charm, this is a delightful spot for an early breakfast or lunch. The real star here is the soup with aromatic dried squid and pork ribs imparting rich flavour. Each tasty spoonful is testament to the traditional recipe.

This local kitchen serves bold Thai flavours with fresh seafood and some wild meats in generous portions. The menu is based on the day's catch supplied by local fishers. Expect spicy, good-quality and honestly executed dishes, with curry pastes pounded by hand. They are renowned for their jungle curry soups: choose from a selection of wild meats and then sit back and embrace the intensity of the dark aromatic broth with ginger roots and Thai aubergines.

This unassuming noodle joint in a quiet alley offers a different take on yen ta fo with squid egg. The well-seasoned dry kao lao also impresses. The menu is short (and only in Thai) but the cooking is heartfelt, portions are honest, and prices fair. A favourite among locals.

Still drawing crowds 70 years on, Apollo Pork Satay is known for its tender pork, liver and intestine skewers – grilled to perfection and served with sweet satay and fresh Acar cucumber. The house-made crab rolls are a crisp, flavoursome bonus, to try with plum or seafood sauce.

Known for traditional Thai cooking, this long-established institution in Chon Buri serves royal-style dishes and classic local recipes that are hard to find nowadays. After starting with Thai royal snacks, try the crisp catfish with curry paste, or one of the rich lon relishes with your choice of protein. Cooked to order, some plates take a while. The décor reflects its long history, while the food continues to draw locals and tourists alike. Vegetarian options are available.