For one of the best restaurant views of Patong Bay and the town itself a good choice would be Pan Yaah, in Kalim about one kilometre north of Patong along the scenic beach road heading up to Kamala Beach. Established for many years, Pan Yaah has recently upped its act in terms of service, cuisine and décor to the point that it’s a great little place for romantic and intimate sunset and evening dining.
The restaurant is set above large granite rocks and diners can hear the surf breaking below – very impressive. Largely made of dark wood with a fan-cooled terrace overlooking the sea, you’ll not want for sea breezes at Pan Yaah.
If we were to be cheeky we’d describe Pan Yaah as a sort of simpler and more basic Baan Rim Pa – a fancy Thai restaurant on the same road only nearer to Patong – but with clearer views of the sweep of the bay and a lot more modest pricing.
Although the sun sets a little too further past the cape to actually see it sinking into the ocean it’s still a lovely place to be at that time of day so the best thing is to either come early to ensure a sea view seat or to book ahead.
As befitting a seaside restaurant, seafood is the primary category of cuisine served here and the restaurant offers set menus for those who have a hard time understanding the Thai monikers for the many dishes on offers. Dishes recommended are mussels in butter, hor mok kanom krok – tiny curry fish mousses baked in clay pots, goong ob woonsen – rice vermicelli with large prawns in a heavy casserole and pla nueng manao – steamed sea bass in lime sauce and chilies. Another favourite is whole grilled fish (for this type of dish Pan Yah charges by the weight although you can order fillets by price).
Of course there’s a lot more to try out and the English-language menu is fairly comprehensive and easy to understand but the main gist behind Pan Yaah is that you can enjoy Thai food in a very Thai place with some of the best views on the island. If you are driving there is dedicated parking place just opposite the restaurant on the other side of the road.
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Pan Yaah outside view -
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Panang Nua (Beef panang)
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Ho mok kanom krok (crab mousse) -
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Pla Neng (steamed fish)
Pan Yaah Restaurant
- Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 – 23:00
- Location: 249 Prabaramee Road (Beach Road) Kalim
- Tel: +66 (0)7 629 0450
