Seafood, Sand, and Sashimi: Why Tai Pok is Bang Saray’s Best-Kept Beachfront Secret
If you’re tired of the crowded tourist traps in Pattaya and crave the authentic, laid-back charm of a sleepy Thai fishing village, you need to head just a few minutes south to Bang Saray. This peaceful coastal haven has managed to keep its local soul intact. And right on the water, tucked away near the historic grounds of the old Bangsaray Club, lies a culinary treasure that is taking “sea-to-table” dining to a whole new level: Sashimi by the Sea by Tai Pok (ซาซิมิติดทะเล By ไต๋ป๊อก บางเสร่).
Whether you are staying at a local retreat like Grand Bangsaray, relaxing at Motto Pool Villa, or taking the scenic 10-minute transit route from Bangsaray Villa Resort, this beachfront gem is an absolute must-visit during your coastal escape.
The Master Behind the Catch: Meet Captain Pok
What makes Tai Pok so special isn’t just the food—it’s the man behind it. The restaurant is owned and operated by Tai Pok (Captain Pok), a local boat captain and seasoned fisherman who is deeply passionate about Thailand’s oceans.
Unlike conventional seafood restaurants that rely on commercial distributors, Tai Pok’s menu is entirely dictated by what the sea decides to share each day. Captain Pok still takes his boat out, runs snorkeling and squid-fishing trips, and brings his daily catch straight to the shore. When you dine here, you aren’t just eating seafood; you are sharing in a local legacy, complete with Captain Pok’s friendly recommendations and fascinating stories about the fish of Chonburi.
Thai Fish Sashimi: A Local Revolution
While most people associate sashimi with imported Japanese salmon or tuna, Tai Pok is spearheading a delicious local revolution: Thai Fish Sashimi.
Using daily-caught local species, Captain Pok slices incredibly fresh, sweet, and bouncy fish that has absolutely no fishy odor. The selection changes constantly depending on the catch, but lucky diners can expect delicacies like:
- Sha Gam (แชกำ / Trevally): Silky, clean-tasting, and exceptionally fresh.
- Si Khon (สีขน / Scad): Rich and deeply satisfying.
- Live Squid (หมึกสด): Sliced fresh right out of the water, offering a sweet, crisp bite that practically melts in your mouth (sometimes served “ดึบดึ๋ย” style, or lightly seasoned with fragrant sesame oil).
- Scallops and Giant Oysters: Plump, chilled, and served with a mountain of fresh Thai herbs and condiments.
To elevate these local treasures, each sashimi platter is served with a unique trio of dipping sauces: classic Japanese wasabi and soy sauce, a fiercely spicy and sour Thai seafood sauce, and a rich, savory peanut dipping sauce.
If raw seafood isn’t your style, do not worry. Tai Pok’s kitchen whips up incredible hot dishes, including the crowd-favorite Squid Fried in Ink Sauce (หมึกผัดน้ำดำ)—a rich, savory, and sweet masterpiece—and spicy, comforting bowls of Tom Yum Seafood Soup.
The Ultimate Beachside Camping Vibe
Forget stiff, air-conditioned dining rooms. Tai Pok is all about feeling the sand between your toes and the sea breeze in your hair.
The restaurant is laid out directly on the beach with an unpretentious, camp-style aesthetic. Weathered wooden tables, camping chairs, and warm string lights make it feel like you’ve been invited to a private beach barbecue hosted by a close friend. It is the ultimate spot to sit back, sip a cold drink, and watch a glorious golden sunset drop below the Gulf of Thailand under a canopy of swaying coconut trees.
An extra bonus? The venue is completely dog- and cat-friendly! You are more than welcome to bring your furry companions along to enjoy the ocean breeze by your side.
How to Get There
Tai Pok is located on the beachfront in Soi Bang Saray Municipality 23, sitting right next to the historic Bangsaray Club—a location that once served as the prestigious epicenter for international big-game fishing tournaments in the 1960s and 70s.
Getting here is incredibly straightforward:
- From Bangsaray Villa Resort: It’s a quick, direct 4.9 km drive (about 10 minutes) straight down toward the coast.
- From Grand Bangsaray or Motto Pool Villa: You are just a stone’s throw away from the main beachfront strip.
- There is plenty of convenient parking right by the sea, so you can drive right up, kick off your shoes, and start dining.
If you want to experience the true essence of Bang Saray’s maritime culture—with the freshest seafood imaginable and a million-dollar sunset view—make sure Sashimi by the Sea by Tai Pok is at the very top of your itinerary.
Tip: Because Captain Pok serves only what is caught fresh daily, key items like the mixed sashimi platters and live squid can sell out fast on busy weekends. We recommend arriving in the late afternoon to secure the best table and the freshest catch!