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Lhot Khao Tom

A budget-friendly Thai rice porridge spot tucked in the Phimai district of Nakhon Ratchasima.

4.8(26)$$$$
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Price
$$$$
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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.

Why go, and how to do it well

Lhot Khao Tom is a local Thai eatery in the Phimai area of Nakhon Ratchasima province, specializing in khao tom — the classic Thai rice porridge that serves as a comforting staple across the country. Sitting in a residential soi off the main roads of Tambon Nai Mueang, this is the kind of place that draws a loyal crowd of locals rather than tourist foot traffic, which speaks to the quality and authenticity of what is served.

Visitors can expect a no-frills, casual dining environment in keeping with the budget price point. Khao tom is typically served with a range of accompaniments such as minced pork, salted egg, preserved vegetables, and ginger, allowing diners to customize their bowl to taste. The relaxed, neighborhood atmosphere makes it well suited to those who want to eat like a local while exploring the Phimai region, particularly after a visit to the nearby Phimai Historical Park.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026

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Around here, on foot

Well-rated places within a short walk of Lhot Khao Tom, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.

Experience hints

Budget-friendly

6F8V+6VW, Soi Sa Kaeo, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Phimai, Chang Wat Nakhon Ratchasima 30110, Thailand

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More restaurants & food nearby

All within a 6-minute walk of Lhot Khao Tom.

Meegaan

Meegaan

130 m walk4.3(186)$$$$
306, 1 Thanon Chom Suda Sadet, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Phimai, Chang Wat Nakhon Ratchasima 30110, Thailand
A mid-range eatery in Phimai serving daily from 10am to 8pm, well-regarded by locals and visitors.
PUNP CAFE
Hidden Gem

PUNP CAFE

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A budget-friendly café near Phimai serving food and drinks throughout the week.
IDA Pub & Restaurant
Hidden Gem

IDA Pub & Restaurant

480 m walk4.5(48)$$$$
6F9W+W73, Nai Mueang, Phimai District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30110, Thailand
A cozy evening pub and restaurant in Phimai serving food and drinks nightly from 5pm.
Rabieng Mai Restaurant

Rabieng Mai Restaurant

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An evening restaurant in Phimai open nightly from 5pm, offering a relaxed dining experience in Korat.

Tips for Visiting Restaurants & Food

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.

Use Grab for Delivery

The Grab app works for food delivery across Thailand, letting you order from street stalls and restaurants alike. It's invaluable on rainy days or when you want to eat in your hotel.

Lhot Khao Tom: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lhot Khao Tom worth visiting?

Lhot Khao Tom holds a 4.8★ rating from 26 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated restaurants & food in Korat.

How expensive is Lhot Khao Tom?

Lhot Khao Tom is budget-friendly (฿) relative to other restaurants & food in Korat.

When is the best time to visit Lhot Khao Tom?

The best months to visit Korat are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in Thai long weekends & Phimai Festival (November) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: April (peak heat).

Where is Lhot Khao Tom located?

Lhot Khao Tom is at 6F8V+6VW, Soi Sa Kaeo, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Phimai, Chang Wat Nakhon Ratchasima 30110, Thailand, in Korat. Getting around Korat: Songthaews on fixed city routes; Grab and Bolt (both work well in the city).

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