If you’re a seafood fan like me, Pattaya is about to become your new best friend. Plonked along the Gulf of Thailand, this beach-side city has access to some of the freshest seafood you’ll find. And in true Pattaya style, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re looking for a casual seafood shack or a more upscale dining experience with ocean views.
Let’s dive into the seafood scene in Pattaya and reel in some of the best spots on offer!
1. Naklua Fish Market: Seafood Straight from the Source
Want seafood as fresh as it gets? Head to Naklua Fish Market, where you can pick up everything from jumbo prawns and live crabs to fish still wriggling in their buckets. This market isn’t just for locals; visitors are welcome to browse, bargain, and even have their seafood cooked right there at nearby stalls. Take your catch to a local restaurant to have it grilled, steamed, or stir-fried—an experience as authentic as it gets.
Pro Tip: Bring cash and go early to get the best selection before the crowds roll in!
2. Moom Aroi: The Oceanfront Favorite
Known for its fantastic seafood dishes and seaside views, Moom Aroi is a must-visit. This spacious, open-air restaurant is right by the water, so you can enjoy the sea breeze while feasting on classic Thai seafood dishes. The grilled prawns and fried sea bass are standout dishes, but don’t miss the rich and spicy tom yum seafood soup—a must-try for a taste of authentic Thai flavors.
Insider Tip: Go around sunset for that perfect beach-dining atmosphere!
3. Laem Charoen Seafood: Local Flavour with a Twist
Laem Charoen is one of Thailand’s famous seafood chains, and the Pattaya branch is as fantastic as they come. Known for their perfectly balanced flavors, Laem Charoen serves up dishes that showcase the natural sweetness of the seafood, like their signature deep-fried sea bass with spicy mango salad. It’s a great place to sample a range of flavours if you’re still getting acquainted with Thai-style seafood.
Order This: Try the crab in yellow curry—rich, aromatic, and worth every bite!
4. Glass House Beachfront Restaurant: Seafood with a Side of Romance
For a more upscale experience, head to Glass House Beachfront Restaurant. Located right on the sand with twinkling fairy lights and cozy decor, this spot is perfect for a laid-back yet romantic seafood dinner. The seafood here is a bit on the fusion side, blending Thai flavours with Western influences. The grilled lobster, tiger prawns, and the seafood platters are deliciously indulgent, especially with the restaurant’s selection of wines.
Atmosphere Alert: Make a reservation if you’re planning a sunset dinner; this place fills up quickly!
5. King Seafood: An Old Favorite by the Beach
King Seafood has been a Pattaya institution for years, right on Walking Street with an unbeatable view of the ocean. Its prime beachfront location and fresh seafood have made it a favourite for both locals and tourists. Known for its relaxed vibe and breezy seating, King Seafood offers a wide variety of dishes, from simple grilled prawns to more elaborate seafood platters. Their famous chilli crab and juicy lobster are absolute must-tries, but any seafood you order here is guaranteed to be fresh and flavorful.
Classic Choice: Opt for the seafood platter if you want to try a bit of everything—it’s perfect for sharing as you soak in the view.
6. Leng Kee: For the Night Owls Craving Late-Night Seafood
If you’re craving seafood at midnight, Leng Kee is where you’ll want to go. This famous Chinese-Thai eatery is open around the clock and serves up mouthwatering seafood dishes well into the night. From steamed fish with lime and garlic to crab fried rice, Leng Kee offers big portions perfect for sharing after a night out. It’s a no-frills spot that locals love, and its bustling, open-air vibe adds to the charm.
Must-Try: The oyster omelette and chilli crab are crowd-pleasers that don’t disappoint!
7. Pattaya Floating Market: A Floating Feast of Flavours
For a unique experience, head to Pattaya’s Floating Market, where vendors on boats serve a variety of seafood dishes right on the water. Grab a bowl of shrimp pad Thai, try some grilled squid, or cool off with a seafood salad as you drift through the market stalls. It’s a feast for both your taste buds and your eyes, offering a slice of traditional Thai culture in a lively setting.
Snack Attack: Try the grilled river prawns—they’re juicy, smoky, and impossible to not to go past.
8. Lan Pho Seafood Market: Fresh, Fast, and Tasty
Another great spot to find fresh seafood without the tourist crowds is Lan Pho Market, located close to Naklua Market. This market has a “buy it and cook it” style that’s popular with locals. You pick your seafood—whether it’s blue crab, mussels, or giant prawns—and have it cooked on-site by vendors. The chilled vibe makes it an ideal spot to enjoy fresh seafood in a relaxed setting.
Hot Tip: Bring friends and make it a seafood feast.
9. Surf & Turf Pattaya: A Mix of Land and Sea
If you’re travelling with a group that’s split on seafood, Surf & Turf has the best of both worlds. Located on Pattaya Beach, this restaurant offers a range of seafood and meat dishes that cater to all tastes. From seafood pasta to grilled seafood platters, you can enjoy international flavours with a tropical twist. And with the beach right at your feet, it’s a setting that’s hard to beat.
Perfect Pairing: Try the seafood platter with a refreshing coconut cocktail. Reefed, beefed and plonked.
Wrapping Up Your Seafood Adventure in Pattaya
Pattaya’s seafood scene is a delicious blend of traditional Thai flavours, fresh ingredients, and creative dishes. Whether you’re a budget traveller hitting up the markets or ready to splurge on a beach-side dinner, Pattaya’s got the fresh seafood for you !
Images – Pixabay
