Menu/food prices rising in Thailand

[caller]

Was in Bangkok over the weekend, and prices have skyrocketed, to Singapore or Tokyo levels in certain places. The more local places are now serving much smaller portions, or 75% rice to keep costs down.

Another reason why tourists aren't flocking here anymore.

I was in Bkk up to 2 weeks ago today, and in the areas I went to, it seemed packed with tourists. But I did notice when I got back to Hua HIN, after 10 days, that it seemed emptier!

I havent really noticed a big hike in food prices in Bkk, but then, as I'm frequently there, there's never a big eating out occassion to fulfull. New places are invariably Thai, suggested by Pam and her niece. I do have a few regular places to eat that are OTT, but they're occassional treats, such as Ramsey's pizza place in Empshere, so you have name and location to add to the price, and I always have a primeburger, in a few locations around town - that was Petes suggestion from here. That's about 450b.

[buksida]

Obviously, it depends where you go, but I got stung 260 baht for a tin of (Thai) IPA in a cafe (London prices) and swerved the Japanese restaurant because it was more expensive than in Tokyo ... and this was near Kasetsart University, not in a tourist area!

[caller]

Obviously, it depends where you go, but I got stung 260 baht for a tin of (Thai) IPA in a cafe (London prices) and swerved the Japanese restaurant because it was more expensive than in Tokyo ... and this was near Kasetsart University, not in a tourist area!

I think the chain restaurants are pushing it, and I think its just about being more selective in choosing somewhere. We were at One Bangkok the other week, the massive new mall by Lumpini, it was our first visit and we only went as we had nothing planned. Four hours later, we left!! But after cheecking various eating places there, Pam finally found a Korean restaurant that she said was really cheap! I think the dishes with all the extras you get on the side, were 260 baht each. Even I enjoyed it.

[Dannie Boy]

Eating out in Thailand (at least the Cha Am/ Hua Hin area) can be relatively cheap, those who live here know the best places to go where you can get good quality food at reasonable prices. You can pay a lot more without necessarily getting anything better, but this Forum is good at announcing new places that fit the reasonable quality/price formula.

[HHTel]

That's one of the reasons I left HH. (not the only reason)
I've found some amazing restaurants here in Nongkhai and of course much cheaper than in Hua Hin.
The owners, I guess, pay the same for supplies as anywhere else. So I guess it's down to the cost of renting etc.
I knew it would be cheaper here but I was surprised how much cheaper.

There are downsides of living here as a farang. Shopping for 'farang' groceries is very difficult.
The nearest Villa Market is 55 kms away in Udon.

I do miss the convenience of HH but there's always pro's and con's wherever you live.

Plus I can't find anywhere for a decent game of pool ..... lol

[404cameljockey]

Danny Boy: yes, avoiding the tourist traps (often the places advertising in the press and on radio) is the way to get good food, even western food. If you want good (not great) non-Thai beef steak at a fair price the new Daddy Deli in Hua Hin is a good bet. Yes expensive but nothing like as expensive as some well-established overpriced offerings, and although slightly short of the excellent and highly priced El Gaucho chain in BKK, Phuket etc. A top menu as well, I didn't expect the huge improvement from their previous incarnation in Pala-U road. It's a rare treat for me but I require the option!

HHTel: you've mentioned the reasons I wouldn't leave HH in favour of somewhere like Nongkhai. I can get very fresh ingredients at local markets but also farang specialities when I suddenly feel the need without ordering from Lazada etc. and waiting.
A good choice of excellent medical facilities catering to my needs is also on my list (age related). Plus I still love to be able to sit on a beach any time I choose, The mighty Mekong doesn't cut it for me.

You pays your money and you takes your choice.

[buksida]

That's one of the reasons I left HH. (not the only reason)
I've found some amazing restaurants here in Nongkhai and of course much cheaper than in Hua Hin.

Yes, Bangsaphan is also substantially cheaper than Hua Hin to eat and drink. Expat and tourist traps tend to be priced at a premium.