Yala's Signature Dish: Baka Roti with Fragrant Banana Leaf and Coconut Husk Aroma

Located on the route between Ban Niang and Bago Sinae heading to Yaha district in Yala province, the 'Kayah Baka Roti' shop preserves an authentic traditional roti-making technique that is now rare. The special 'Baka Roti' or 'Roasted Roti' is uniquely prepared without oil, using local wisdom. The flour is kneaded to a smooth consistency and placed on banana leaves before being roasted in a coconut husk-fueled oven, creating a distinctive aroma and perfectly balanced sweet, rich, and salty flavor. Owner Paleela Tark, known as 'Kayah', started the business during the COVID-19 crisis by adapting traditional pastry-making skills. Her secret is carefully kneading wheat flour mixed with butter, milk, eggs, and yeast, then letting the dough rise before roasting for about 5 minutes. The roti pairs perfectly with a rich massaman chicken curry. Currently, the shop is a popular local and tourist destination, selling 200-300 rotis daily, with sales reaching up to 1,000 during Ramadan. They also offer delivery to Bangkok, with rotis staying fresh for up to 3 days when reheated. Priced at just 10 baht per roti or 30 baht with curry, the shop operates from 9 AM to 5 PM and can be contacted at 080-863-7625.