VC Residence - Chon Buri

In these recipes passed down over nine decades, light seasoning allows the natural sweetness of fish, shrimp, roe and other seafood to shine. Served with two punchy dipping sauces, the standout dry-style seafood rice porridge and stir-fried seafood with egg are worth ordering.

For a taste of long-established local fare, this eight-decade-old gem that holds itself to exacting standards of cleanliness is a must. Tender braised duck meat with savoury gravy is the signature, best enjoyed with rice; fans of spicy food will relish the house-made dipping condiments.

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.

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.

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.

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.

For over 60 years, this dessert stall has served classic sweetened sticky rice in the traditional way – cooked in bamboo with fresh coconut milk. Choose from original white or aromatic black sticky rice, garnished with taro, black beans, or ginkgo nuts; available in three portion sizes.