The center of Subotica is increasingly becoming a point of attraction not only for tourists from Hungary and Croatia, but also for Russian-speaking residents of Serbia, visitors from post-Soviet countries, and travelers discovering the northern part of the country thanks to the new railway connection with Belgrade.
SRBIJA NEWS – This city, whose rich history dates back to the 14th century, has always known how to impress—with its architecture, unique atmosphere, and unhurried rhythm of life. Now, one more unexpected element has joined this list: a touch of real Thailand, carefully woven into a European setting.
Walking through the central streets near the main square, the National Theatre, and familiar landmarks such as McDonald’s, it is hard to imagine that just around the corner you can step into a space filled with the aromas of lemongrass, lime, and spices. Yet this is exactly where Samraan Thai Restaurant has recently opened—the only authentic Thai restaurant not only in Subotica, but essentially in the entire Vojvodina region.
The restaurant is small yet spread over two floors, offering a cozy atmosphere with a Thai flag, traditional decorative elements, and a small Buddhist corner. Food is served in an unusual way: dishes are sent from the kitchen to the second floor via a small service lift, adding a distinctive charm to the experience. The heart of the place, however, is its kitchen.
The restaurant is owned by a woman from Thailand who personally prepares every dish. She moved to Serbia seven years ago after extensive travels, having lived in the United States, spent time in California, and visited the so-called “Little Thailand.” Today, she has chosen to bring the authentic flavors of her homeland to the northern Balkans.
The menu is compact but carefully curated. Tom yum, tom kha, curries, salads, spring rolls, and dishes with chicken, seafood, rice, and vegetables are all prepared fresh and can be adjusted to suit individual tastes. Allergies and personal preferences are easily accommodated. Some ingredients must be ordered from outside Serbia, with others brought in from neighboring countries, which explains why this type of restaurant remains a rarity in the region. Smoking is not allowed inside, a detail especially appreciated by families, tourists, and anyone who values clean air while dining.
The restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Due to the limited number of tables, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends when visitor numbers increase. Delivery service has not yet been launched, but expansion and further development are planned.
Samraan Thai Restaurant – Contact details:
📍 Address: Trg cara Jovana Nenada 3, Subotica, Serbia
📞 Phone: +381 61 6086098
📧 Email: samraantsu@gmail.com
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samraanthairestaurant
After a satisfying lunch or before dinner, relaxation becomes a natural continuation of the day—and here Subotica surprises once again. The city is home to Thai Massage Apsarah, a massage salon where Thai therapists offer professional treatments in an atmosphere reminiscent of those familiar to travelers in Pattaya, Phuket, or Bangkok.
Soft music, candles, aromatic oils, the traditional foot-washing ritual before the session, followed by tea and Thai cookies afterward—all elements follow classic Thai traditions. The salon employs certified specialists with official work permits in Serbia.
There is no “street format” here—only adult clients, personalized attention, and a calm, respectful environment. Services include traditional Thai massage, oil massage, relaxation techniques, treatments for the back, neck, and shoulders, as well as extended sessions lasting up to two hours. The staff speaks English and Thai, while all service details and prices are clearly presented in Serbian, eliminating any language barrier.
Currently, the salon operates three massage rooms with three therapists, and plans are underway to open a separate room for couples. Walk-ins are possible, but during evening hours and the tourist season, booking in advance is recommended.
Thai Massage Apsarah Subotica – Contact details:
📍 Address: Petra Drapšina 8, Subotica, Serbia
📞 Phone: +381 61 2876354
📧 Email: info@thaiapsarah.com
🌐 Website: thaiapsarah.com
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thai_massage_apsarah_subotica
The combination of a Thai restaurant and a Thai massage salon fits seamlessly into Subotica’s tourist route. Walks through the old town, Art Nouveau architecture, quiet streets, followed by a flavorful dinner and a relaxing massage, turn even a short visit into a complete and memorable experience.
It is a clear example of how small ethnic businesses not only exist, but enrich the city—making it more vibrant, diverse, and engaging.
