


Kung Phuean Praew
Tucked into the Asia Road market area in central Ayutthaya, this Thai seafood restaurant has earned a loyal following among locals and visitors alike. Its reputation rests squarely on the freshness of its seafood — live stock is kept on-site and cooked to order — with the grilled shrimp drawing consistent praise for its quality, generous portions, and reasonable pricing. The regular presence of government workers and Ayutthaya locals at the tables is a reliable sign that this is a neighbourhood staple rather than a tourist-oriented operation. The menu focuses on Thai seafood and classic dishes, served in a casual, no-frills setting typical of central market dining in the region. The cooking leans bold and flavourful, and at least one visitor noted feeling notably thirsty after the meal — worth keeping in mind for those who are sensitive to salt or seasoning. Portions are considered good value for the mid-range price point. Opening hours are not confirmed online, so arriving during standard Thai meal times — roughly 11am to 2pm for lunch or 5pm to 9pm for dinner — is the most practical approach. The restaurant tends to fill up, particularly on weekends, so coming slightly before peak service is advisable. Cash payment is recommended, and casual dress is entirely appropriate.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Kung Phuean Praew, round out your day in Ayutthaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
If shrimp were a religion, this place would be the temple. Tucked along the road of Ayutthaya, this lunch gem delivers shrimp so fresh they probably filled out a time sheet this morning. Swap riverside with marketside. The grilled river prawns? Massive. Like, “should I tip this prawn?” massive. Heads full of rich, golden fat that made us question everything we thought we knew about flavor—and cholesterol. We went in thinking we’d order light. We left Googling if it’s socially acceptable to drink prawn oil straight. Sides were no afterthought either—spicy dips that slap, rice that actually compliments the meal instead of just showing up, and a riverside view that’s one strong gust away from a full food meditation session. Bonus: zero tourist-trap energy. Just good food, good people, and shrimp that might haunt our dreams (in the best way). Come hungry, leave full—and maybe with a few shrimp shells in your pocket for emotional support.
My go-to spot every time I’m in Ayutthaya. The food’s really good and totally worth the price. The grilled shrimp is a must—super fresh, comes in big portions, and not pricey at all. They usually have three sizes to choose from. I also really like their fried rice, tom yum, and the seafood sauce is amazing. It’s in the market area but there’s parking, which is super convenient. Definitely a place I keep coming back to.
A local friend bring us here, the seafood are fresh and meaty, enjoy the food here very much. Good portion and price are reasonable.
Location Info
98/8 กุ้งเพื่อนแพรว ตลาดกลางฯ ถ.สายเอเชีย Tambon Han Tra, อยุธยา Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: August – October (flooding risk)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
22°C – 38°C(72°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Hua Lamphong (~1.5 hrs, very cheap). Minivan from Bangkok's Mo Chit (~1.5 hrs). Day trip by car from Bangkok is easy.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (best way to see ruins)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate half-day rate)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Boat tours on the river
Where to stay near Kung Phuean Praew
Find hotels in Ayutthaya on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Tips for Visiting Restaurants & Food
Learn the Spice Scale
Say 'mai pet' for no spice, 'pet nit noi' for a little spice, or 'pet mak' if you want it Thai-hot. Most cooks will default to a toned-down version for foreigners unless you specify otherwise.
Follow the Crowds
The busiest street stalls are almost always the best — high turnover means fresh ingredients and a recipe that locals vouch for. An empty restaurant at dinner time is a red flag.
Ice Is Safe
Factory-made tube or cylinder ice (used in virtually all restaurants and stalls) is made from purified water and is safe to consume. You don't need to skip the iced Thai tea.
Also Popular in Ayutthaya

Wat Yai Chai Mongkol Worawihan
Ancient Buddhist temple complex in Ayutthaya with a towering central chedi and rows of orange-robed Buddha statues.

Wat Mahathat
Ancient Ayutthaya temple famed for its iconic Buddha head cradled within the roots of a banyan tree.

Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan
A revered 14th-century temple on the Chao Phraya River, home to an enormous gilded sitting Buddha.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Majestic 17th-century Khmer-style temple ruins set along the Chao Phraya River in Ayutthaya.
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Kodtalay The Riverfront Seafood Buffet
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The Village Farm To Café
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Pier 21
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: August – October (flooding risk)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
22°C – 38°C(72°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Hua Lamphong (~1.5 hrs, very cheap). Minivan from Bangkok's Mo Chit (~1.5 hrs). Day trip by car from Bangkok is easy.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (best way to see ruins)
- •Tuk-tuks (negotiate half-day rate)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Boat tours on the river
Where to stay near Kung Phuean Praew
Find hotels in Ayutthaya on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.