Hat Yai is a paradise for food lovers, offering a flavorful mix of Thai, Malay, and Chinese culinary influences. One of the city’s most iconic dishes is Hat Yai fried chicken, crispy and often served with sticky rice and sweet chili sauce—simple, delicious, and widely available at street stalls and local markets.

Another must-try is roti, a soft, flaky flatbread that’s often paired with curry or served sweet with condensed milk and banana. For something fun and traditional, don’t miss roti sai mai, Thai-style cotton candy wrapped in a thin crepe-like roti—especially popular with children and perfect as a snack or dessert.

Seafood lovers will enjoy grilled prawns, squid, and fish, often served with spicy dipping sauces at night markets like the ASEAN Night Bazaar. You can also try southern-style curries, known for their bold flavors and heat, including dishes like kaeng som (sour curry) and massaman curry.

At the Khlong Hae Floating Market, explore a wide range of street food, from skewers and coconut pancakes to colorful Thai sweets and herbal drinks. Don’t forget to sample Thai milk tea, a sweet and creamy beverage that’s perfect for cooling down after a hot day of sightseeing.

Hat Yai offers a rich culinary experience that reflects its cultural diversity—every meal is a chance to discover something new and delicious.