Zaab Zaab ThaiFood
Zaab Zaab ThaiFood has built a loyal following among both travellers and locals in Pai for one simple reason: genuinely authentic Thai cooking at prices that are difficult to beat anywhere in the country. Dishes like pad Thai, pad see ew, pad kra pao, and panang curry are prepared with the kind of bold, unfussy flavour that reflects the region's culinary traditions rather than a menu shaped for tourist palates. Full meals with drinks have come in well under 200 baht for two people, making this one of the more remarkable value propositions in northern Thailand.
The atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, drawing a crowd that skews toward travellers who have done their research alongside regulars who return out of habit. The menu can be focused on a handful of dishes on any given day, which keeps quality consistent and preparation fast. Service is straightforward and efficient.
Taste more of Pai
Street-food tours, market visits, and Thai cooking classes near Zaab Zaab ThaiFood — a guided way to eat like a local.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Zaab Zaab ThaiFood, round out your day in Pai with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
This place is popular! This is the cheapest meal we’ve had in Thailand. When we went they were only selling pad Thai and pad see ew which was fine. The pad Thai came out quickly and was great. You can help yourself to drinks from their fridge. They didn’t serve alcohol on the night we went, not sure if they usually sell it or not. Would recommend.
Unbelievable value here with 2 chicken pad thais and two cans of soda coming to 120 Baht i believe. certainly the best value we have found in thailand with the food being excellent, love the venue and the kitchen at the front, looks like its run by a lovely thai family.
I’ve been here twice and had delicious food both times. Highly recommend the pad see ew and pad kra pao.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 144 reviews on Google.
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Zaab Zaab ThaiFood: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zaab Zaab ThaiFood worth visiting?
Zaab Zaab ThaiFood holds a 4.8★ rating from 144 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated restaurants & food in Pai.
What are the opening hours of Zaab Zaab ThaiFood?
Zaab Zaab ThaiFood is typically open 08:00-22:00 — 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 Zaab Zaab ThaiFood?
The best months to visit Pai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (hot & hazy).
Where is Zaab Zaab ThaiFood located?
Zaab Zaab ThaiFood is at 101 2, Pai, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand, in Pai. Getting around Pai: Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day); Bicycle rental for town.
Location Info
101 2, Pai, Amphoe Pai, Chang Wat Mae Hong Son 58130, Thailand+66 92 287 3447Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: March – May (hot & hazy)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
12°C – 32°C(54°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minivan from Chiang Mai (3 hrs, ~762 curves, take motion sickness tablets). Small airport for charter flights only.
Getting around
- •Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day)
- •Bicycle rental for town
- •Walking in the town centre
Where to stay near Zaab Zaab ThaiFood
Find hotels in Pai on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
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Compare rates on Booking.com
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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
Hungry Bird Pai
A beloved Pai brunch spot serving fresh Western and Thai food, creative smoothies, and quality coffee.
Ganita Cafe
A well-regarded cafe on Pai's main road, drawing locals and travellers alike with consistent quality.
Om Garden Cafe
A shaded garden spot for a slow breakfast in the middle of Pai, closed Mondays and shut by five.
Soul Café & Shop
A relaxed Pai café serving fresh brunch and pressed juices, with a calm outdoor area and welcoming English-speaking staff.
Similar Restaurants & Food Across Thailand
Kodtalay The Riverfront Seafood Buffet
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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 Zaab Zaab ThaiFood
Find hotels in Pai 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: March – May (hot & hazy)
Rainy season
June – October
Avg. temperature
12°C – 32°C(54°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minivan from Chiang Mai (3 hrs, ~762 curves, take motion sickness tablets). Small airport for charter flights only.
Getting around
- •Motorbike rental (essential — ฿150/day)
- •Bicycle rental for town
- •Walking in the town centre