Pattaya, Thailand, is often celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, but what truly sets it apart is its diverse and thriving food scene. For expats and travelers who love global flavors, Pattaya is a dream destination, offering authentic Italian, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, and Mexican restaurants—often at unbeatable prices. Whether you’re craving wood fired pizza, dim sum, sushi, butter chicken, or tacos, this city delivers.
But where should you live if you want to be close to the best international dining spots? Let’s explore Pattaya’s top foodie neighborhoods and the must try restaurants in each category.
Why Pattaya is a Foodie’s Dream Destination
Unlike Bangkok or Chiang Mai, Pattaya’s food scene is underrated yet incredibly diverse, blending Thai street food with high-quality international cuisine. Thanks to its large expat community, the city has developed an impressive selection of foreign restaurants, many run by chefs from their respective countries. Here’s what makes Pattaya a culinary hotspot:
Affordable fine dining – Many high-end restaurants offer gourmet meals at a fraction of Western prices.
Authenticity From hand pulled noodles to Neapolitan style pizza, the flavors stay true to their origins.
Variety you can find everything from Russian dumplings to German sausages alongside
Thai classics.
Beachside dining – Many restaurants offer ocean views, making meals even more memorable.
Now, let’s dive into the best cuisines and where to live to enjoy them.
Best Areas to Live for Food Lovers in Pattaya
1. Central Pattaya the Heart of International Dining
If you want walkable access to the best global restaurants, Central Pattaya is ideal. This area is packed with Indian, Italian, and Japanese spots, along with lively night markets.
Top Restaurants Here:
Indian: Royal Kolkata Restaurant (home-style Bengali food) and Chutney Indian (beachfront tandoori dishes).
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Italian: Gian’s Italian Restaurant (award-winning pasta and wood fired pizza).
Japanese: Tsunami Sushi Buffet (all you can eat sushi for 599 THB).
Best for: Expats who want convenience and variety.
2. Jomtien – Upscale Dining with Beach Views
Jomtien is slightly quieter than Central Pattaya but still offers high-end international restaurants, especially Italian and Mediterranean.
Top Restaurants Here:
Italian: Casa Pascal (French Italian fusion with fine dining) and Beachside Italian Restaurant (romantic oceanfront seating).
Greek/Mediterranean: El Greco (authentic moussaka and grilled meats).
Mexican: While not as common, some beach bars serve decent tacos and margaritas.
Best for: Those who prefer a relaxed vibe with gourmet options.
3. Naklua – Fresh Seafood & Hidden Gems
Naklua, near the fishing village, is famous for seafood and authentic Japanese cuisine.
Top Restaurants Here:
Japanese: Ronin Japanese Restaurant (high-end sushi and wagyu).
Chinese: Huang Chao (royal Cantonese dishes).
Thai Seafood: Nang Nual (Pattaya’s oldest seafood spot).
Best for: Foodies who love fresh seafood and intimate dining.
4. Pratamnak Hill – Luxury Living with Fine Dining
This upscale area is home to high-end restaurants with stunning views.
Top Restaurants Here:
Italian: Mantra Restaurant (multi cuisine fine dining).
Indian: Maharani (royal style Indian feasts).
Chinese: Shanghai Restaurant (authentic dim sum).
Best for: Expats seeking a premium lifestyle with gourmet options.
Must Try Foreign Cuisines in Pattaya
1. Italian – Wood Fired Pizza & Handmade Pasta
Pattaya has dozens of Italian restaurants, from casual pizzerias to fine dining.
Gian’s Italian Restaurant – Best for truffle pasta and ossobuco.
Casa Pascal – Famous for their Cannelloni (pasta rolls baked in cheese sauce).
2. Chinese – Dim Sum, Peking Duck & More
Huang Chao – Royal Cantonese cuisine with customizable dishes.
Shanghai Restaurant – Best for xiao long bao (soup dumplings) .
3. Japanese – Sushi, Ramen & All You Can Eat Buffets
Ronin Japanese Restaurant – High quality wagyu and fresh uni.
Tsunami Sushi Buffet – Affordable unlimited sushi.
4. Indian – From Street Food to Royal Thalis
Alibaba Tandoori & Curry – Best for butter chicken and pani puri.
Maharani – Lavish Mughlai dishes in a palace like setting.
5. Mexican – A Growing Scene
While not as dominant, a few spots serve authentic tacos and burritos, often in expat bars.
Final Thoughts: Pattaya is a Global Food Hub
Whether you’re craving hand tossed pizza, spicy Szechuan noodles, fresh sashimi, or creamy butter chicken, Pattaya has it all—often at unbeatable prices. The best areas to live depend on your preferences:
Central Pattaya for convenience and variety.
Jomtien for upscale beachfront dining.
Naklua for seafood and Japanese cuisine.
Pratamnak Hill for luxury and fine dining.
For food lovers, Pattaya isn’t just a vacation spot—it’s a place to eat the world without leaving Thailand.
Bon appétit!