Nuch's Apple Guest House

Arrivals and departures are better with a stopover at this simple restaurant in front of Khon Kaen Airport. For more than two decades, Prapai’s friendly owners have been serving authentic Isan dishes made with fresh local ingredients that change with the season. To experience traditional Isan cooking, try deep-fried sour fish or the off-menu Somtum in fermented fish sauce with salted crab.

Established in 1986 and now run by the second generation, this spot with its red sign has long been serving comforting beef noodles featuring tender brisket, tendon and meatballs in a light, flavoursome broth. Thai basil rice is a welcome new addition to the concise menu.

The strength of this shop is its locally sourced free-range meat. The tender braised duck noodles, including neck, wing and thigh, are highlights. Their slow-cooked pork is equally exceptional. Try the duck rice with a smooth blood jelly and five spices.

The original owners moved to Isan more than 20 years ago and brought the flavours of Northern Thailand with them. The owner doesn't compromise on quality, ensuring the spices are well utilised to produce bold, balanced and authentic flavours. Khao Soi is the speciality here. For groups, order the Northern Thai set – the homemade sausage won't disappoint. Round off your meal with a refreshing dessert.

The inviting smell of charcoal-grilled sausages wafts from the kitchen at the front of this shophouse restaurant. This family-run business has been serving traditional Isan pork and beef dishes since 1972, in line with their motto: ‘using the best cuts of beef to create flavoursome Isan dishes.’ Dishes like their fried sun-dried beef slices, pork sausages and sliced beef shank in spicy and sour soup live up to the ideal, are reasonably priced and served with a smile. Don't forget to call and reserve the grilled beef tongue in advance.

When Mr. Leng left Bangkok’s Chinatown for Khon Kaen in 1984, he brought a secret recipe for Yentafo, or pink noodle soup, and set up shop. His signature dish, which features toothsome noodles, fresh fishballs, shrimp balls and fish wontons, and a tasty broth, continues to delight.

This grilled pork spot is among the most popular street places in Khon Kaen, and its grilled pork neck with rice is the reason why. The tender, sweet and salty marinated meat perfectly matches the accompanying spicy tamarind sauce. Also recommended are the spicy salad and soup.