There are so many restaurants near the Patong Merlin you will be spoilt for choice. We generally stroll and eat where ever takes our fancy.
For a cheap meal Sabai Sabai and Sweets get good patronage and are very popular with all nationalities. They can be found in the small streets (Soi) than run off the beach road near the Merlin... you won't miss them.
Have a great time.
Cheers Geri