Was in Khon Kaen fo a few days, semi-working, so not touring. Just thought I would give a shout out for a couple of restraunts there - both near the pullman hotel (which seem to be something of a landmark there). There are a few bars and massage places around, not that I visited.
On the lane running along the side of pullman there is a small place called (if memory serves correct) "Podomoro" (or whatever is the italian for tomato!).
Ate there a couple of times. Owned by an Italian it seems, and his mama is usually around. Obviously Italian food, but well, well worth a visit. Thin crust pizzas looked awesome (I did not indulge) and a great range of simple home cooked italian food. Had a wicked lasagna, some great classic spaghetti, the beef cappachio with bread was memorable. two eating, 4 (generous) glasses of a drinkable house red -1,200 baht (both times)
Again not far from the pullman (just acros the road) is a newish Japanese restraunt (Nippon Sushi, if i am not too far off). Expecting run of the mill sushi joint and was very, very pleasantly surprised. very high standard japanese place. beuatiful (and expensive) tuna of different grades amongst other things. We were heavy on the sashimi, some sushi - two relatively light eaters, small bottle of saki, one asahi. bill 3,000 baht. Expensive, but worth it (if you are into good sushi/sashimi).
Surprising Khon kaen.