Nakhon Sawan’s food reflects its large Thai-Chinese community and its rivers. The town is famous across Thailand for its mochi, and Chinese bakeries sell pastries and mooncakes all year. From Bueng Boraphet come freshwater fish and lotus.
What to eat
Nakhon Sawan mochi
Soft, round glutinous-rice cakes filled with bean paste and other fillings. Mochi shops line the main roads and are the classic gift to take home. Map
Chinese pastries and mooncakes
Khanom pia (flaky pastries) and mooncakes from local bakeries, especially popular around Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Freshwater fish
Restaurants near Bueng Boraphet serve river and lake fish: steamed with lime, fried with herbs, or in hot and sour soup.
Lotus seeds and lotus stems
Fresh lotus seeds are sold in season around the lake; lotus stems go into curries and stir-fries.
Noodles and Chinese dishes
Duck noodles, rice soup and other Thai-Chinese dishes in the old market area near the river.
Festival snacks
During Chinese New Year, stalls sell dumplings, sweets and offerings food along the parade route.
Markets and where to eat
- Old market area by the river (Paknampho) – noodle shops and Chinese bakeries. Map
- Restaurants around Bueng Boraphet – fish dishes with a lake view. Map
- Mochi shops on the main roads – easy to stop at by car.
- Evening food stalls in town – for grilled snacks and noodles.
Nakhon Sawan has no MICHELIN-listed restaurants. Opening times change often, so check before you go.
Food at festivals
Paknampho Chinese New Year turns the riverside into a huge food fair for about twelve days. See things to do in Nakhon Sawan for the festival.
FAQ
What is Nakhon Sawan famous for food-wise?
Mochi, Chinese pastries and freshwater fish.
Where can I buy mochi?
At the many mochi shops along the main roads in town.
Is there vegetarian food?
Yes, especially during the Vegetarian Festival in October, when many Chinese-run shops sell jay food.
What should I take home?
Mochi or Chinese pastries.
More to read
Cover photo: Mooncake1.jpg · Junelee · CC BY-SA 1.0 · Wikimedia Commons
