"Steak Tua Por" (The Father of Steak): A Must-Visit Steakhouse in Khao Yai

If you're looking for a great steakhouse in Khao Yai, "Steak Tua Por" (The Father of Steak) is the top recommendation. This small restaurant is packed with high-quality Thai beef, conveniently located on Thanarat Road, around kilometer 6, opposite Midwinter.

The restaurant has been around for a while, but it gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic when the owner had time to revamp it. Steak is the star here, known for its charcoal grilling and smoked aging process. Large marinated beef cuts are placed over hot charcoal for 2-3 hours. As the fat and marinade drip onto the coals, the resulting smoke infuses the meat, making it tender and aromatic.

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Steak prices range from 500-3,000 baht. In addition to beef, they offer pork, chicken, fish, and pasta dishes. Recently, they introduced a flavorful beef hot pot for 600 baht, serving 3-4 people.

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Chef Nikorn (Nikon) Sriwilai, 57, the owner of Steak Tua Por, recounts his journey. Initially, he was in the livestock business, selling animal feed and supplements. He noticed that his customers struggled with production and marketing, so he helped them learn meat processing, including steaks, sausages, and meatballs. He then started selling these products, which led to the restaurant. Although it wasn't initially successful, customer feedback guided his improvements.

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"Customers in Khao Yai were my teachers," Chef Nikorn says. "Their feedback aligned with scientific principles, and my background in animal science helped me refine our offerings."

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The turning point was the COVID-19 lockdown, which allowed him to identify and address the restaurant's weaknesses.

"Our signature is the smoked aging process," he explains. "We smoke the beef over hot coals, which causes a reaction between amino acids and sugars, creating a browned crust. The heat also tenderizes the meat. We smoke it for 2-3 hours, resulting in excellent flavor."

Chef Nikorn learned cooking from his parents and through short courses, combining practical experience with customer feedback.

The restaurant's cowboy-country ambiance enhances the dining experience, making it a must-visit for steak lovers in Khao Yai.

The restaurant is open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

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