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Top 10 Restaurants in Khon Kaen That Know How to Serve and SERVE
One of the trickiest questions I get hit with is: “Where should we eat?” It’s not that I don’t have taste—sometimes I just blank out, or I’m trying to guess what everyone else is in the mood for (group cravings are a mystery).
But here’s the thing: I’ve started keeping track. My notes app is stacked with spots I’ve tried, loved, or stalked online. And yes, Khon Kaen made the cut. My friends and I take food trips seriously—no half-measure here (snapping pics is a bonus!).
So, if you’re headed to this northeastern gem, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up the best restaurants in Khon Kaen, from bold Isan flavors to international twists. Go ahead—dig in!
The Globe
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Address: 999 ม. 4 Thanon Prachasamoson
Contact details: +66 43 209 888
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 AM – 10:30 PM
Pricing: ฿฿
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Located within the Avani Khon Kaen Hotel & Convention Center, The Globe offers a global menu with Asian Influences. This spot serves everything from hearty breakfast spreads to elegant dinners.
Think fluffy pancakes with maple syrup for your morning fill, aromatic Thai curries for lunch, and sizzling steaks or seafood platters by evening. The place also makes the entire experience better, all in a sleek, modern setting with floor-to-ceiling windows and minimalist decor.
We love their rotating international specials—like Korean bulgogi tacos or Italian truffle pasta—it keeps things exciting and gives you a chance to explore. Expect the price to lean towards the mid-range (mains are around ฿300–฿600), but the portion sizes and presentation justify the cost.
Pro tip:
Pair your meal with a Thai-inspired cocktail, like lemongrass-infused gin or tamarind margaritas, which aren’t on the menu but bartenders will whip up if asked.
Lom Kaow Café and Restaurant
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Address: 225/9 ซอย กสิกรทุ่งสร้าง 23/2 ในเมือง Mueang Khon Kaen District
Contact details: +66 86 325 9436
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: ฿
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Menu
For a taste of Isaan soul food served with genuine warmth, Lom Kaow Café and Restaurant is a local favorite that feels like a well-kept secret. They also have quirky corners designed for Instagram snaps—both indoors and in a dedicated outdoor “photo zone.”
They specialize in authentic Northeastern Thai dishes—think som tum (papaya salad) jazzed up with fresh wasabi, crispy fried fish straight from clean oil, and pla som (fermented fish) that balances tang and umami.
At first glance, you could easily tell that the menu leans into tradition but they also throw in surprises, like a special rice dish you won’t find elsewhere—locals swear it’s worth the visit.
Pro tip:
If you’re new to Isaan flavors, let the staff guide you—their tom yum soup and grilled chicken come highly recommended, though watch out for occasional misfires like overcooked duck.
The Sweet Gallery
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Address: 190 15 หมู่ 16 ถนน กัลปพฤกษ์ Tambon Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen District
Contact details: +66 94 514 1449
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: ฿
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Just minutes from Khon Kaen University, The Sweet Gallery is like a fusion spot where East meets West—with a hint of China. The menu is a global mishmash: dive into Penang curry, fluffy pancakes in maple syrup, and Thai-Chinese hybrids like salt-fried chicken with crispy kale.
But let’s be real—the desserts steal the show. Get ready for their lava soufflé pancakes oozing with mango or strawberry sauce, shaved ice (Bingsu) piled high with toppings, and scones that split the difference between crumbly and cakery.
And a surprising crowd-pleaser is their pork ribs. Many diners love how flavorful and “fall-off-the-bone” tender it is, especially since it sits on top of rice with crab-fat sauce.
Pro tip:
Hit this spot on weekday afternoons to dodge the crowd and snag outdoor seating under the shade. If you don’t know where to start, get the Penang curry paired with a soufflé pancake for dessert—it’s a sweet-savory win.
BUONO Italian Restaurant
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Address: 179 อำเภอเ มือง, 160 หมู่ที่ 4 Prachasamoson 38 Alley, Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Khon Kaen
Contact details: +66 43 247 222
Opening hours: Thursday to Tuesday: 12 PM –2 PM, 5 PM –10 PM
Pricing: ฿฿
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For a slice of Italy in Khon Kaen, BUONO Italian Restaurant might be the one for you without the cliches. This gem, held by an Italian chef-owner, leans into a rustic-modern charm with sleek interior architecture and design that feels fancy but still has that warm and natural vibe.
You can’t miss their hand-stretched pizzas with charred, chewy crusts, house-made pasta like pappardelle al ragù simmered for hours, and risottos that strike between creamy and al dente. Even their tiramisu tastes like it follows a generations-old family recipe.
Also, we can’t leave out how good their steaks are—it’s one of the most-praised dishes here. On top of that, they have a lovely and accommodating waiting staff, making your entire dining experience better.
Pro tip:
If you have any dietary restrictions, don’t hesitate to bring them up. They have vegetarian and vegan options, where flavor doesn’t get lost.
King Kong Restaurant & Bar
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Address: 389, 9 Ro Pho Cho Khon Kaen 3172 Rd, Tambon Ban Pet, Mueang
Contact details: +66 64 640 6059
Opening hours: Thursday to Tuesday: 11 AM – 8 PM
Pricing: ฿฿
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If you’re craving a taste of home and Thai hospitality in Khon Kaen, this spot—run by an American expat and his Thai wife—is where hearty portions meet global flavors. The place is laid-back but lively, especially during events like Super Bowl nights, where expats and locals bond over ribs and cold beers.
The menu reads like a culinary passport: juicy burgers (up to a 2-pound), slow-cooked brisket (a monthly special that melts like butter), and Thai classics like tom yum soup, all served in a renovated, family-friendly space with retro flare and air conditioning—a godsend in the Thai heat.
The star here? The Sunday roast, featuring tender duck breast or top sirloin with stuffing and gravy—a rarity in Isaan. Pair with their homemade baklava sundae or a Thai-inspired milkshake for the complete experience.
Pro tip:
If you want to go for their roast, get there early on Sundays before it runs out. And use Google Maps—the location is tricky, tucked off a main road.
AURA Cafe and Restaurant Khon Kaen
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Address: AURA Cafe and Restaurant Khon Kaen
Contact details: +66 94 514 9989
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 8:30 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: ฿฿
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Now, we must say that AURA Cafe and Restaurant Khon Kaen is one of the most breathtaking places on this list. You’ll be welcomed by a serene garden, with lush greenery and even artificial waterfalls that just make it look like a scene from a fairytale movie.
On top of that, their menu features diverse items from Thai and Western cuisines. Signature dishes like their German pork knuckle, spaghetti carbonara, and Hawaiian Ocean pizza, are definitely must-tries.
And if you’re excited about dessert, they’re famous for their homemade cakes, such as mango and purple sweet potato cakes—it’s worth the snap, too.
Pro tip:
To get the complete experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings when the cafe is less crowded. And try not to miss out on their homemade cakes.
แก่น I KAEN
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Address: 140 64 ซ. อดุลยาราม 3 Nai Mueang, Mueang Khon Kaen District
Contact details: +66 83 912 8659
Opening hours: Wednesday to Monday: 11 AM–3 PM, 5 PM –9 PM
Pricing: ฿฿
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For those looking for some casual dining, แก่น I KAEN is a top contender. In fact, it’s even featured in the Michelin Guide, which says a lot about its service and offerings.
Speaking of offerings—they reimagine traditional Isaan dishes with modern techniques and presentations, creating innovative yet familiar flavors (if you’re a local). Their salmon gravlax with som saa is a nice appetizer, then pair it with Isaan-German crispy pork as the main.
You can also count on their food’s freshness since they usually update their menu quarterly to highlight seasonal ingredients. And we have to plug one of their best dishes, the Massaman curry with tender lamb shank—it’s highly recommended.
Pro tip:
It’s best to get a reservation in advance since the place is quite popular and the seating is limited. Also, ask about the seasonal tasting menu to experience the freshest local ingredients.
Greenleaf Hydrofarm & Restaurant
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Address: 199 หมู่ที่ 17 Ban Ped Sub-district, Mueang Khon Kaen District
Contact details: +66 86 862 3423
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:30 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: ฿฿
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What makes Greenleaf Hydrofarm & Restaurant stand out is how they incorporate hydroponically grown vegetables from their own farm into their dishes, so you can imagine how fresh and high-quality their meals are.
Their dishes span from Thai to Western cuisines, and it’s great that they cater to various dietary preferences. Our top picks from their menu include steak, fish and chips, and fresh salads—a group can easily order all of these to share around the table.
Not to mention, the place is surrounded by greenery, making it a nice break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Their attentive and friendly staff also deserve a shoutout for their services.
Pro tip:
If you’re arriving or departing from Khon Kaen via the airport, going here for your meal is a good idea since it’s nearby.
Tumkratoei Sagate
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Address: 88 89 หมู่ที่ 20 Ban Ped Sub-district, Mueang Khon Kaen District
Contact details: +66 65 962 8949
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: ฿
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Tumkratoei Sagate is another restaurant that gives you an indoor and outdoor dining experience. They even have a central garden with fish ponds, creating a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for snapping photos.
But don’t let that distract you from their traditional Isaan dishes. If you want something light but still flavorful, their spicy seafood salad with fermented fish sauce is a nice choice. You could also go for their spicy chicken soup with noodles to enjoy a balance of heat and savory elements.
We also noticed that their dishes are quite wallet-friendly, so you can eat well and plenty without having to splurge too much. Plus, it’s been acknowledged by the Michelin Guide, so it definitely has some appeal.
Pro tip:
Just a heads-up, if you’re planning to enjoy their outdoor seating, we’d suggest arriving early or during weekday afternoons.
Sai & Lakeview ร้านอาหารริมบึงหนองโคตร ขอนแก่น
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Address: 200/3 หมู่ที่ 7 ถนนรอบบึงหนองโคตร เมือง Khon Kaen 40000
Contact details: +66 85 046 4848
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 4:30 PM – 12 AM
Pricing: ฿฿
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As the name suggests, Sai & Lakeview is situated along the shores of Nong Khot Lake in Khon Kaen, providing diners with stunning views, especially during sunset.
Their menu is quite diverse (between Thai and Western dishes), catering to a variety of tastes. One of the crowd-favorites is the barbecue and pork dish that’s grilled to perfection, or you can go for the Larb Pla Taphian (Spicy Thai Fish Salad), a more traditional Isan dish.
Another thing we noticed is how it’s great for those dining in groups or with family. They also provide private rooms if you want.
Pro tip:
Secure a spot with good views or enough seating by booking a reservation, especially for weekend evenings.
