Could the social media buzz—and even Mark Wiens’ glowing endorsement—of Hatyai’s famed fried chicken truly live up to expectations? To find out, my wife, our two boys (aged 10 and 12), and I made a second pilgrimage to Kaitod Meena on our drive back from...
Read MoreCould the social media buzz—and even Mark Wiens’ glowing endorsement—of Hatyai’s famed fried chicken truly live up to expectations? To find out, my wife, our two boys (aged 10 and 12), and I made a second pilgrimage to Kaitod Meena on our drive back from Koh Lanta to Kuala Lumpur. Our first taste in April 2024 left us intrigued but eager to revisit and relive the flavors.
This time, we arrived at the modest roadside stall at a relaxed 3 PM, a stark contrast to our initial visit when the long queues had us waiting anxiously. With no crowds in sight, we snagged a table conveniently located near the drinks kiosk.
Our order was straightforward yet promising: four sets of golden-fried chicken thighs paired with fragrant yellow rice generously sprinkled with crispy fried shallots. The rice, vibrant with turmeric and perhaps a medley of secret spices, was delightfully flavorful on its own—no curry required to enhance its taste.
The chicken was the star of the show. Expertly fried at a blistering 180°C, the high-temperature oil created an outer crust that was beautifully crisp and golden without overcooking the tender interior. The crust reminded me of the buttery, crunchy coating of Kailis’ famous fish and chips in Fremantle, Perth. Each bite delivered a symphony of textures and flavors: the crisp exterior yielding to juicy, succulent meat inside, with not a hint of dryness or undercooked flesh.
For an added layer of indulgence, the chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet Thai chili sauce available at each table. The slight tanginess of the sauce complemented the savory notes of the chicken and rice without overpowering them. The fried shallots were more than a garnish—they lent an umami-rich, slightly bittersweet crunch that elevated every bite.
Our only regret? Not ordering more chicken to share. The irresistible combination of flavors and textures made it hard to stop at just one piece each.
It’s safe to say that Kaitod Meena’s fried chicken deserves every bit of its social media fame. It’s a resounding yes to Mark Wiens’ endorsement, and for me, this fried chicken scores a flawless 5 out of 5. If you’re ever in Hatyai, this is one meal you simply can’t miss.
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