iRETREAT PAK THONG CHAI

This simple, open-air restaurant serves Thai-Chinese fare. The food is distinctive for its simply cooking techniques yet quality dishes with extra-fresh ingredients and intense flavours. They offer a fantastic range, including several seafood and made-to-order options. Deep-fried chicken thigh with fish sauce and stir-fried spicy seafood are recommended.

Ochin is named after the owner's favourite Japanese film. This second-generation stall only serves takeaway – a range of homemade deep-fried buns presented on a trolley at the front. Their signature is the crispy bun which contains glass noodles, tasty seasoning and vegetables.

For over 50 years, Granny Somphit has been crafting flavourful Isan cuisine daily, balancing local spices with Thai herbs. Fresh offal cuts and the signature Isan spicy calf beef salad, seasoned with smoky rice powder for crispness, stand out. The homemade beef sausage and fermented meats are also notable.

At this rotisserie stall, they have spent over 50 years perfecting their signature dish of chicken (farmed or domestic) marinated in a secret peppery, herbal blend before it hits the spit. Juicy and tender, with a thin skin, the meat comes served with a sweet chilli dipping sauce.

The owners, originally from Suphan Buri, specialise in beef and offal noodles simmered over charcoal in a smoky, clear broth. The mixed beef luak chim features braised beef, beef slices, beef balls and offal tossed with dark soy and a squeeze of fresh lime, creating a distinctive flavour combination.

Chef-owner Anuwat Thiemkreangkrai's 12-year-old stall stands out with its fresh, light MSG-free seafood dishes. His passion shines through in stir-fries that bring out the natural essence of the fresh catch, such as celery with seabass and the beautifully balanced seafood with Thai basil.

Transporting diners back in time, this nostalgic eatery overflows with vintage collectibles – navigate your way to your table past retro movie posters, trinkets and antique toys. The signature minced beef curry with fresh coconut milk proves a perfect complement to the crispy fried gourami fish. With over 20 years in business, Banmai Chay Nam draws crowds with its delicious food and scenic views of Khao Yai, especially during peak season.