KHAO PRHA RAM LONG SONG LAO OH
Tinnawut Kaewnikhom
Last updated: 3 Mar 2026
4 Views
KHAO PRHA RAM LONG SONG LAO OH
Selected for inclusion in the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand or Michelin Plate category for 2024.
A Legacy of Three Generations
Lao Oh is a legendary establishment that has been serving the people of Surat Thani for over 60 to 70 years. The shop is currently managed by the third generation of the family. Its name, "Lao Oh," is the family’s Chinese name, symbolizing the deep ancestral roots and the secret recipes brought over by their Chinese-Teochew forefathers.
Lao Oh is a legendary establishment that has been serving the people of Surat Thani for over 60 to 70 years. The shop is currently managed by the third generation of the family. Its name, "Lao Oh," is the family’s Chinese name, symbolizing the deep ancestral roots and the secret recipes brought over by their Chinese-Teochew forefathers.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name of the dish, "Phra Ram Long Song" (Rama Bathing), is poetic and steeped in Thai mythology:
• Phra Ram (Rama): Refers to the green-skinned hero of the Ramakien (Ramayana). In the dish, this is represented by the vibrant green morning glory (water spinach).
• Long Song (Bathing): Refers to the act of "bathing" or dousing the green vegetables and meat in a rich, golden-brown peanut sauce.
The "Lao Oh" Signature Recipe
The name of the dish, "Phra Ram Long Song" (Rama Bathing), is poetic and steeped in Thai mythology:
• Phra Ram (Rama): Refers to the green-skinned hero of the Ramakien (Ramayana). In the dish, this is represented by the vibrant green morning glory (water spinach).
• Long Song (Bathing): Refers to the act of "bathing" or dousing the green vegetables and meat in a rich, golden-brown peanut sauce.
The "Lao Oh" Signature Recipe
What makes the Lao Oh version world-class is the complexity of its components:
• The Peanut Sauce: Unlike common Satay sauce, their sauce is incredibly smooth, creamy, and aromatic, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. It is slow-cooked for hours to achieve the right consistency.
• The Pork: They use high-quality pork, sliced thin and blanched just until tender, ensuring it remains juicy.
• The Chili Paste (Nam Prik Phao): A dollop of their secret-recipe roasted chili jam is added on the side, providing a smoky heat that cuts through the richness of the peanuts.
• The Accompaniment: Traditionally served over warm jasmine rice or sometimes rice vermicelli, and always accompanied by citrusy lime and fresh shallots to brighten the flavor.
• The Peanut Sauce: Unlike common Satay sauce, their sauce is incredibly smooth, creamy, and aromatic, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. It is slow-cooked for hours to achieve the right consistency.
• The Pork: They use high-quality pork, sliced thin and blanched just until tender, ensuring it remains juicy.
• The Chili Paste (Nam Prik Phao): A dollop of their secret-recipe roasted chili jam is added on the side, providing a smoky heat that cuts through the richness of the peanuts.
• The Accompaniment: Traditionally served over warm jasmine rice or sometimes rice vermicelli, and always accompanied by citrusy lime and fresh shallots to brighten the flavor.
An Unchanging Atmosphere
Located near the Surat Thani Market (Talat Kaset), the shop retains its classic shophouse charm. It doesn't rely on fancy decor; instead, the draw is the large brass pot of simmering peanut sauce and the rhythmic sounds of the kitchen. It is one of the few places left in Thailand where you can experience this specific dish prepared with such authentic, old-world techniques.
Located near the Surat Thani Market (Talat Kaset), the shop retains its classic shophouse charm. It doesn't rely on fancy decor; instead, the draw is the large brass pot of simmering peanut sauce and the rhythmic sounds of the kitchen. It is one of the few places left in Thailand where you can experience this specific dish prepared with such authentic, old-world techniques.
Why It Is a "Must-Visit"
Khao Phra Ram Long Song is considered a "rare find" in modern Thailand. Most vendors have stopped making it because the sauce is labor-intensive and difficult to master. Lao Oh remains the gold standard in the South, proving that some traditions are worth preserving.
Khao Phra Ram Long Song is considered a "rare find" in modern Thailand. Most vendors have stopped making it because the sauce is labor-intensive and difficult to master. Lao Oh remains the gold standard in the South, proving that some traditions are worth preserving.
Tips for Foodies
• Located at : 22/2 Soi Witheethat, Talat, Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000.
• Located at : 22/2 Soi Witheethat, Talat, Mueang Surat Thani District, Surat Thani 84000.
• The "Secret" Side: Many locals recommend ordering a side of their clear pork soup to cleanse the palate between bites of the rich peanut sauce.
• Get There Early: Like many heritage shops in Surat, they open early in the morning and often sell out by early afternoon.
• Get There Early: Like many heritage shops in Surat, they open early in the morning and often sell out by early afternoon.
Related Content
