Sabai Sabai

Sabai Sabai is a small café in the Cape Panwa area, tucked away on a quiet side street. It feels intimate and unpretentious, with a subtle seaside vibe nearby. The dining room is compact, clean, and relaxed — more of a casual bistro atmosphere — making it a good fit for couples or small groups. In the evenings, it can get quite busy.

The menu focuses on authentic Thai cuisine, with a solid variety of familiar dishes served in a simple, home-style way. Soups are a standout here, especially tom yum and tom kha. Other popular choices include pad thai, massaman curry, spring rolls, green papaya salad, fried fish with Thai chili sauce, duck dishes, and chicken with rice. There are a few European options for variety, but the real strength of the place is clearly Thai flavors. Among the drinks, the coconut shake is particularly memorable.

Another big plus is the fair pricing for a tourist area and the generous “value-for-money” feel — you can order several dishes and drinks without the sense of overpaying. Service is quick and attentive, the staff are friendly, and guests are sometimes treated to a small complimentary touch at the end: a cold towel and a few slices of watermelon.

There are a few minor drawbacks. The café is small, so moving or combining tables isn’t always easy. Some dishes may be milder than expected, and a few portions can feel smaller than anticipated. The European dishes also tend to be less impressive than the Thai classics.