Region: Southern Thailand> Province: Satun> Location: Satun

Satun

For the small provincial capital that it is, Satun has a pretty handy supply of eating options.

Across from the school on Phuminarot Rd., E-san Nua is the place to go for Northeastern Thai specialties like BBQ beef, sticky rice, and spicy papaya salad. There's no English sign or menu, so take a look at what others are eating if you need some help ordering. If you're more comfortable with an English menu, swing by Galay Restaurant which has one and is run by some friendly Muslim ladies who serve big plates of rice with meat and veggies for only 30B.

For a more up-market spread, Time Restaurant is one of the nicest restaurants in Satun, boasting air-con, attentive staff, and some very Thai decor. Take a few minutes to flip through the encyclopedic menu which covers everything from roasted duck to banana blossom salad. Try a curry and a spicy salad, then cool off with a mocha float. Dishes start at 40B, and they serve beer -- not all that common in these parts.

Next door to Time, you'll find Phrik Thai Steak & Food which is another tasty option with a more Western menu. Salmon, chicken, or beef steaks are served with french fries, and there's also spaghetti. For a uniquely Southern Thai appetizer, order the roti with green curry Phrik Thai gets bonus points for outdoor tables and some excellent bathrooms. No pork or alcohol. Dishes start at 45B.

If you're suffering from rice-overload, stop by On's the Living Room for sandwiches, pasta, and pizza. Flip through their copy of the Bangkok Post or chat up the ex-pats for local information. Check the specials board for meals you'd think unobtainable in a small town -- fish & chips, chilli con carne, and more.

Market wise, near the canal you'll fins Satun's Central Market -- the place to buy fresh meat, vegetables, and dried chillis by the kilo. Stalls sell snacks like roasted cashews, small cakes, and cold drinks. It's worth a look around, but is mostly shut down by 16:00. Come the evening, Satun Night Market sells fried chicken, Thai curries, fruit, meat-on-sticks, and pastel-colored sweets for take-away. Empty parking lots becomg make-shift restaurants serving simple dishes of rice with fried meat and veggies and noodle soup. The market gets going around 17:00.

Because of the large Muslim population, many restaurants in Satun do not serve alcohol. There's a couple open-air bars at the northern end of Satun Thanee Rd, plus a cluster of karaoke bars near the Pinnacle Hotel. Om's The Living Room has beer and cocktails.