Songkhla is more than a city surrounded by two seas. It is a culinary destination where history, trade, and cultural diversity are reflected in every dish.
The city’s food culture is shaped by a remarkable fusion of three culinary traditions: the bold and spicy flavours of Southern Thailand, the cooking techniques of Hokkien and Teochew Chinese communities, and the aromatic spices of Malay-Muslim cuisine. Together, they create a distinctive gastronomic identity that has made Songkhla one of Thailand’s emerging food destinations.
Today, we invite you to explore some of Songkhla’s most iconic dishes, from the historic Old Town to the bustling markets of Hat Yai.
Three Culinary Traditions on One Plate
Many people describe Songkhla cuisine as a harmonious blend of three influences:
Southern Thai Flavours
Local herbs such as turmeric, fingerroot, and rich curry pastes create the bold, vibrant flavours that define Southern Thai cooking.
Hokkien and Teochew Chinese Techniques
Steaming, braising, and delicate seasoning methods introduced by Chinese communities have been adapted to local ingredients over generations.
Malay-Muslim Influences
Aromatic spices such as cumin, cloves, and coriander add depth and complexity to many traditional dishes.
The combination of these culinary traditions gives Songkhla cuisine a character that is both distinctive and deeply rooted in its multicultural heritage.
A Songkhla Breakfast: From Dim Sum to Khao Stu
Mornings begin early in Songkhla. In Hat Yai, arriving after 7 a.m. may mean missing one of the city’s most beloved breakfast traditions—Southern-style dim sum.
Unlike Hong Kong-style dim sum, diners select fresh ingredients from a variety of trays before having them steamed to order. The result is a personalised breakfast experience enjoyed by locals every day.
Another local classic is Khao Stu, found along Nang Ngam Road in Songkhla Old Town. This unique dish combines Chinese-style pork stew with British-inspired seasoning and Thai spices. Served with a light broth and a tangy chilli-vinegar dipping sauce, Khao Stu perfectly reflects the city’s multicultural history.
Three Must-Try Signature Dishes
1. Hat Yai Fried Chicken
One of Thailand’s most famous regional dishes, Hat Yai Fried Chicken (Kai Thot Hat Yai) is known for more than its carefully marinated chicken.
The secret lies in the generous topping of crispy fried shallots that blankets each serving. Marinated with coriander root, garlic, and white pepper, the chicken is fried until golden while remaining juicy and tender inside.
Originating in Hat Yai District, this iconic dish has become popular throughout Thailand and is now recognised by visitors from around the world.
2. Khai Khrop
Around Songkhla Lake, one specialty stands out as a true local treasure: Khai Khrop, a GI-certified delicacy.
Made from salted duck egg yolks steamed in a traditional manner, Khai Khrop develops a rich, custard-like texture and distinctive savoury flavour. The dish originated from fishing communities around the lake and remains an important ingredient in Southern Thai cuisine.
Enjoyed with steamed rice or paired with spicy salads, Khai Khrop offers a flavour experience found nowhere else.
3. Khao Yam and Songkhla Lake Sea Bass
Khao Yam is often described as edible art. Blue rice coloured with butterfly pea flowers is topped with finely sliced kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, long beans, toasted coconut, and a variety of fresh herbs. Everything is brought together with Budu sauce, a fermented fish dressing that delivers a distinctive umami flavour.
Equally celebrated is Koh Yor Sea Bass, raised in the brackish waters of Songkhla Lake. Known for its naturally sweet flesh and clean taste, it is commonly prepared in Southern sour curry or steamed with lime and herbs.
Together, these dishes showcase the richness of Songkhla’s aquatic resources and local culinary wisdom.
A Culinary Journey Worth Taking
Songkhla’s cuisine offers a window into the region’s trading history, cultural diversity, and natural abundance.
From Southern-style dim sum and Khao Stu in the Old Town to Hat Yai Fried Chicken and GI-certified Khai Khrop, every dish tells a story of people, culture, and place. Each meal reflects the connections between communities that have shaped Songkhla for centuries.
For food lovers seeking authentic culinary experiences, Songkhla promises unforgettable flavours at every turn. Explore the morning markets of Hat Yai, visit Koh Yor to enjoy fresh lake seafood, and wander through Songkhla Old Town to discover the city’s unique gastronomic heritage.
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