10 Best Street Food Stops in Ubon Old Town

Learn more at Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Office.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Department of National Parks - Pha Taem.

The variety of flavors reflects the rich history and cultural mix of this beautiful northeastern Thai province. You can find spicy papaya salads and savory grilled meats on almost every corner of the district. Most food stalls are located within walking distance of the main historic temples and local city parks. Eating here is a great way to support the local community while enjoying a very delicious meal.

Prices are generally lower than in Bangkok which makes it a perfect destination for budget conscious travelers. You can easily enjoy a full day of eating without spending a lot of your travel money. Be sure to try the local specialties that you cannot find in other parts of the country. The following list highlights the top spots you must visit during your stay in Ubon Ratchathani.

1. Thung Sri Mueang Night Market Food Stalls
   • Type: vibrant evening food market
   • Why go: huge variety of local snacks
   • Best for: budget travelers and families
   • Where: near Thung Sri Mueang park
   • Time: one to two hours
   • Cost: cheap to mid range prices
   • Getting there: walk from the city center
   • Tip: try the spicy grilled catfish
2. Somtam Jay So Local Salad Shop
   • Type: traditional papaya salad stall
   • Why go: famous for extra spicy flavors
   • Best for: lovers of authentic Isan food
   • Where: northern edge of old town
   • Time: thirty to forty-five minutes
   • Cost: very low local prices
   • Getting there: short tuk tuk ride
   • Tip: order the fermented fish sauce
3. Guay Jub Yuan Ratchabut Noodle House
   • Type: Vietnamese style noodle shop
   • Why go: thick and savory pork broth
   • Best for: a warm and filling lunch
   • Where: near the Ratchabut pier area
   • Time: thirty to sixty minutes
   • Cost: forty to sixty baht
   • Getting there: walk from the riverside
   • Tip: add a crispy fried egg
4. Patonggo Ko Neng Morning Breakfast Stand
   • Type: fried dough and coffee stall
   • Why go: famous dinosaur shaped dough
   • Best for: kids and early risers
   • Where: close to the morning market
   • Time: fifteen to twenty minutes
   • Cost: very cheap per piece
   • Getting there: walk from local hotels
   • Tip: dip in sweet condensed milk
5. Indochine Vietnamese Style Dining Spot
   • Type: indoor and outdoor restaurant
   • Why go: fresh spring rolls and wraps
   • Best for: healthy and fresh meals
   • Where: heart of the old town
   • Time: one hour for dinner
   • Cost: mid range for the area
   • Getting there: walk from the museum
   • Tip: book a table for dinner
6. Ratchabut Riverside Evening Food Area
   • Type: outdoor riverside food stalls
   • Why go: beautiful views of Mun River
   • Best for: romantic evening street meals
   • Where: along the river bank
   • Time: one to two hours
   • Cost: affordable street food prices
   • Getting there: walk along the promenade
   • Tip: visit during the sunset hour
7. Khanom Thueai Uncle Odd Dessert Stall
   • Type: traditional Thai coconut custard
   • Why go: best coconut dessert in town
   • Best for: people with a sweet tooth
   • Where: near the city pillar shrine
   • Time: ten to fifteen minutes
   • Cost: very cheap small bowls
   • Getting there: walk from the park
   • Tip: eat them while still warm
8. Ubon Pork Sausage Local Souvenir Shop
   • Type: specialty pork snack shop
   • Why go: famous Ubon style fermented pork
   • Best for: snacks and edible gifts
   • Where: main old town shopping street
   • Time: twenty minutes for shopping
   • Cost: varies by package size
   • Getting there: easy walk from center
   • Tip: ask for the spicy version
9. Nam Tao Hu Mae Pranee Soy Milk
   • Type: evening soy milk stand
   • Why go: fresh soy milk and ginger
   • Best for: a light evening snack
   • Where: near the main intersection
   • Time: ten to twenty minutes
   • Cost: ten to twenty baht
   • Getting there: walk from night market
   • Tip: try it with black sesame
10. Khao Piak Sen Grandma Morning Market
    • Type: traditional morning noodle stall
    • Why go: authentic local breakfast experience
    • Best for: experiencing the local culture
    • Where: inside the fresh market
    • Time: thirty to forty minutes
    • Cost: very low local prices
    • Getting there: early morning walk
    • Tip: arrive before nine in morning

Essential Tips for Eating in Ubon Ratchathani

When visiting street food stops in Ubon old town you should always carry small cash notes. Most local vendors do not accept credit cards or large bills for small food purchases. You can find many ATMs near the central park if you need to withdraw more money. Paying with small coins makes the transaction much faster for the busy stall owners.

Look for stalls that have many local people waiting in line for their food. This is usually a very good sign that the ingredients are fresh and tasty. Do not be afraid to ask for less spice if you are not used to heat. Isan food is known for being much spicier than food in other Thai regions.

Most street food vendors are very clean and follow good hygiene practices every day. Drinking bottled water is always recommended to stay safe while traveling in Southeast Asia. You can find many convenience stores that sell cold drinks near the main food areas. Always check the opening hours as some stalls close early if they sell out.

Navigating the Historic Center for Foodies

The historic old town of Ubon is very easy to explore on foot for hungry travelers. The primary food areas are located near the scenic river and the central city parks. Learn how to navigate Ubon old town properly to find every single hidden food stall. Most local vendors are extremely friendly and will gladly help you order the best dishes.

You can easily walk between the morning market and the evening night market locations. The streets are mostly flat and safe for pedestrians during the daylight hours. Consider taking a free walking tour in Ubon Ratchathani to see the main sights. This will help you get your bearings before you start your evening food hunt.

If you get tired you can always find a colorful tuk tuk for a ride. Make sure to agree on the price before you start your journey across the town. Most rides within the old town area should be very affordable for all tourists. Walking is still the best way to soak in the local atmosphere and smells.

Best Time to Visit Ubon Food Markets

Timing is very important when you want to visit street food stops in Ubon old town. Morning markets are most active between six and nine in the early morning hours. Check the best time for walking in Ubon to avoid the afternoon tropical heat. You will find the best breakfast noodles and fresh soy milk during this time.

Evening markets usually start setting up around four or five in the late afternoon. The peak time for food variety is between six and eight in the evening. You can also find many free things to do in Ubon while waiting for markets. Visiting the local temples during the golden hour is a very beautiful experience.

Some popular stalls might sell out of their best dishes by seven in the evening. It is always a good idea to arrive early to get the best selection. If you need help you can learn how to book Ubon walking tours for expert guidance. Food tours are a great way to discover spots you might otherwise miss.

Combine your food tour with the Ubon Ratchathani temple walking route for a full day. This allows you to see the culture and taste the food in one trip. The weather is usually best for walking during the cooler months of the year. Always bring an umbrella during the rainy season to stay dry while eating.