Zab Zab
A casual Thai restaurant in the Pak Phraek area of central Kanchanaburi, Zab Zab takes its name from the Isaan word for bold, spicy flavour — and the kitchen reflects that spirit with straightforward, authentic cooking at genuinely affordable prices. The consistent presence of local diners alongside travellers signals food that prioritises flavour over presentation, and the rustic decor and relaxed atmosphere make it a comfortable place to settle in for a proper meal rather than a quick stop.
Dishes are best ordered to share across the table, with pad Thai noodles and cold Chang beer among the frequently mentioned combinations. The mango smoothie draws particular praise from visitors. The space has a character that sets it apart from generic budget restaurants — music adds to the ambiance, and the laid-back setting suits a longer, unhurried meal.
Taste more of Kanchanaburi
Street-food tours, market visits, and Thai cooking classes near Zab Zab — a guided way to eat like a local.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Zab Zab, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
The food and service was great and very affordable! Lovely music and very cool rustic decor. We were here on a week night so it was not very busy. The mango smoothie was one of the best I’ve had! Pictures don’t do the food justice. VERY AFFORDABLE! Highly recommend the fried papaya salad! Famous local Thai restaurant.
Very much good taste. Must try restaurant in kanchaburi
Was recommended to try this restaurant by a local masseuse. Wasn’t overly impressed I’m afraid. I wasn’t made aware for 15 minutes after I’d sat down that you had to write your order on a notepad. A strange smell came wafting down the street and had everyone coughing (not the restaurants fault) After another 15 minute wait the food arrived. Although tasty, the portion size wasn’t great -I had stir fried shrimp and basil and rice. Went to pay bill and staff not very attentive and the woman taking the money was very grumpy! Made my way to the night market to top up with extra food!
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 1,069 reviews on Google.
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Zab Zab: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zab Zab worth visiting?
Zab Zab holds a 4.4★ rating from 1,069 Google reviews — a strong rating for restaurants & food in Kanchanaburi.
What are the opening hours of Zab Zab?
Zab Zab is typically open 10:30-21:00 — 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.
How expensive is Zab Zab?
Zab Zab is budget-friendly (฿) relative to other restaurants & food in Kanchanaburi.
When is the best time to visit Zab Zab?
The best months to visit Kanchanaburi 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: April – May (extreme heat).
Where is Zab Zab located?
Zab Zab is at 49หมู่9 ต.ปากแพรก เมือง Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand, in Kanchanaburi. Getting around Kanchanaburi: Bicycle rental (town is flat); Motorbike rental.
Location Info
49หมู่9 ต.ปากแพรก เมือง Amphoe Mueang Kanchanaburi, Chang Wat Kanchanaburi 71000, Thailand+66 89 545 4575Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (extreme heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
20°C – 38°C(68°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Thonburi station (~3 hrs, scenic). Minibuses from Mo Chit take ~2.5 hrs. Car hire is recommended if you're exploring beyond town.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (town is flat)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Songthaews along the river
- •Long-tail boat tours on the river
Where to stay near Zab Zab
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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.
Nearby Places
The Nine Restaurant
A well-regarded Thai restaurant on Maenamkwai Road, open daily with indoor and outdoor seating.
Life Kitchen
A warmly run Thai restaurant in Kanchanaburi serving fresh, affordable dishes from boat noodles to Western options.
113 Steak
A chef's table steak counter opposite JJ Night Market, where the chef picks your cut and talks you through it.
Duangdee cafe
A hidden outdoor bar and restaurant with great music, Thai food, and a relaxed atmosphere in Kanchanaburi.
Similar Restaurants & Food Across Thailand
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Pier 21
Cheap, genuinely good Thai food on the fifth floor of a mall, if you can find a table at noon.
Where to stay near Zab Zab
Find hotels in Kanchanaburi 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: April – May (extreme heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
20°C – 38°C(68°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Thonburi station (~3 hrs, scenic). Minibuses from Mo Chit take ~2.5 hrs. Car hire is recommended if you're exploring beyond town.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (town is flat)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Songthaews along the river
- •Long-tail boat tours on the river