O Pochana
Tucked into Ayutthaya's historic old market district along the riverbank in Tambon Sena, this long-established restaurant has gained significant recognition beyond its local roots, earning attention from the Michelin Guide and a notable appearance on the Iron Chef television programme. That profile has turned what was once a neighbourhood staple into a destination in its own right, drawing visitors from across Thailand and abroad.
The kitchen's reputation rests firmly on its river seafood. Fresh river prawns are the standout draw, particularly the roasted salt-crusted variety known as kung tod kluea, served with spicy dipping sauce. Local river fish dishes are equally well regarded. The setting within the old market area adds to the appeal, offering a riverside atmosphere that reflects the quieter, more residential side of Ayutthaya away from the main temple complexes.
Taste more of Ayutthaya
Street-food tours, market visits, and Thai cooking classes near O Pochana — a guided way to eat like a local.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After O Pochana, round out your day in Ayutthaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Highly recommended if you are looking for fresh river prawns. Their prawns are fresh and cooked very well. They are served with spicy dipping sauce on the side. The price is a little high, but it’s worth the drive (assuming from Bangkok) and the pay. The place is not very big as they are local and has been serving the community for such a long time. It is in the middle of the local fresh market. The waitresses are so nice and friendly. They are also pet friendly.
Very fresh river prawns , Sweet Peas are prefect cooking and don’t miss to order roasted river prawns very very best temperature and the tail very softly sweetly . One of the best “Kung Tod Kluea” dish in Thailand. (Kung tod kluea mean fresh river prawns deep fried in sweet butter and salt)
Settled in the old town of Baan Pan, Ayuttaya, also a hometown of my father. O-Pochana, has been there since forever but it has gotten more famous when the owner went to Iron Chef competition and then listed in the Michelin Guide. If you want to try something new and avoid the crowd and main stream restaurant in Ayuttaya. This place is definitely and good alternative to it. Mostly local eats during weekdays but can also get quite busy in weekend. This small town has been suffered by foods every year, when walking around you would still find some water marks all over. Food - make sure you order the friend prawns and fried fish with soy sauce. Truly amazing!!
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 425 reviews on Google.
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Wat Mahathat
The Buddha head in the tree roots is the draw, but the wider ruins are what stay with you.
Wat Phanan Choeng Worawihan
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Wat Chaiwatthanaram
Come late afternoon and stay for the lighting: the ruins change character completely after dark.
O Pochana: Frequently Asked Questions
Is O Pochana worth visiting?
O Pochana holds a 4.5★ rating from 425 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated restaurants & food in Ayutthaya.
What are the opening hours of O Pochana?
O Pochana is typically open 09:00-18:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit O Pochana?
The best months to visit Ayutthaya are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in November – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: August – October (flooding risk).
Where is O Pochana located?
O Pochana is at ก นาวิน ตลาดเก่าริมแม่น้ำ 164 ซอย 4 Tambon Sena, Amphoe Sena, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13110, Thailand, in Ayutthaya. Getting around Ayutthaya: Bicycle rental (best way to see ruins); Tuk-tuks (negotiate half-day rate).
Location Info
ก นาวิน ตลาดเก่าริมแม่น้ำ 164 ซอย 4 Tambon Sena, Amphoe Sena, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13110, Thailand081 946 7737www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057306015312Visitor 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). A 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 O Pochana
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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.
Similar Restaurants & Food Across Thailand
Kodtalay The Riverfront Seafood Buffet
Open-air seafood buffet on the Chao Phraya from 599 baht, and the river seats are worth asking for.
Central Pattaya
A big air-conditioned mall on Beach Road where the food court does the heavy lifting.
The Village Farm To Café
Looks like nothing from the highway, then opens up into green fields, high ceilings and properly fresh food.
Kodtalay Seafood Buffet Sukhumvit
Live river prawns from the tank, grilled at your table, and no clock ticking on how long you stay.
Where to stay near O Pochana
Find hotels in Ayutthaya on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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). A 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