Where to find the best Thai food in Bangkok

Image by jcomp on Freepik

Bangkok is undeniably one of the best places in the world to experience authentic Thai food. The city’s buzzing streets are filled with endless carts and stalls offering mouth-watering dishes, allowing you to dive headfirst into the culinary heart of Thailand. Whether you’re wandering through narrow alleys or large food markets, the variety of street food you’ll find is immense, catering to both locals and adventurous travelers. Consider this your ultimate guide to the best Thai street food in Bangkok, where flavors burst with every bite. Let’s explore five must-try dishes and where to find them.

Pad Thai (ผัดไทย)

Perhaps one of Thailand’s most famous exports, Pad Thai is a stir-fry noodle dish typically made with rice noodles, scrambled egg, tofu or shrimp, peanuts, and bean sprouts, all mixed in a tangy tamarind sauce. It’s one of the gateway dishes into Thai street food for many people – comforting and full of flavor. The balance of sweet, salty, and sour notes makes it an easy favorite. While classic, street versions tend to have a stronger punch due to the freshness of ingredients.

– Where to find the best Pad Thai in Bangkok:
– Thip Samai, Maha Chai Rd
– Bang Rak Market
– Pratunam Market

Image by freepik

Som Tum (ส้มตำ)

Som Tum, or papaya salad, is a savory and tangy dish made from crunchy green papaya, tomatoes, lime, and chilies. It’s seasoned with fish sauce, garlic, and sometimes dried shrimp or peanuts. Known for its fiery spice and refreshing crunch, Som Tum represents the best of Bangkok’s street food offerings, both bold and vibrant. Variations exist, such as Som Tum Thai, which has more sweetness, or the Lao-style Som Tum, which packs an even stronger punch of chili.

– Where to find Som Tum in Bangkok:
– Or Tor Kor Market (North of Chatuchak)
– Soi Ari Night Market
– Victory Monument Street Market

Image by freepik

Moo Ping (หมูปิ้ง)

This may look like a simple dish, but Moo Ping, or grilled pork skewers, packs a serious flavor punch. Thin slices of marinated pork are skewered and grilled over charcoal until crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender. A little sweet and savory, Moo Ping is traditionally eaten with sticky rice. You’ll often see locals grabbing these skewers on their way to work or during busy market runs.

– Where to find delicious Moo Ping in Bangkok:
– Soi Sukhumvit 38
– Saphan Taksin BTS Area
– Wang Lang Market

Tom Yum Goong (ต้มยำกุ้ง)

Few dishes are as synonymous with Thai food as the spicy and sour soup known as Tom Yum Goong. This hot and sour dish is brimming with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, mushrooms, shrimp, and chili. Its clear broth is always a crowd-pleaser, balancing spice and tartness with the rich umami flavor from the shrimp. Street-side vendors often offer their versions with a variety of toppings depending on your stop.

– Where to find the best Tom Yum in Bangkok:
– Petchburi Soi 5
– Chinatown (Yaowarat)
– Silom Soi Convent

Image by freepik

Khao Man Gai (ข้าวมันไก่)

A Thai take on Hainanese chicken rice, Khao Man Gai is a simple dish, but don’t let that fool you—it’s immensely flavorful. Tender steamed chicken is placed over fragrant rice cooked in seasoned chicken broth and served with a slightly spicy and tangy dipping sauce made from garlic, ginger, chilies, and soy. A heart-warming dish, it makes for a lighter, yet equally satisfying option in the sea of Bangkok street food.

– Where to find great Khao Man Gai in Bangkok:
– Pratunam Street Market
– Charoen Krung Road
– Petchaburi Soi 7

Bangkok’s street food scene is an adventure in itself, offering some of the best Thai cuisine tucked into every corner of the city. Whether you’re visiting food stalls for Pad Thai or savoring hot bowls of Tom Yum Goong, these dishes will leave you with a richer understanding of Thai food Bangkok.

Top upscale Thai restaurants to visit

If fine dining with extraordinary presentation and ambiance is more of your preference, then Bangkok has a treasure trove of upscale Thai restaurants to try. A city rich in culinary traditions, Bangkok offers some of the best Thai cuisine experience that deftly combines innovative presentation with authentic flavors. Let’s highlight some of Bangkok’s top Thai restaurants where you can indulge in extravagant meals and a premium atmosphere.

Le Du

Lauded by critics and diners alike, Le Du is a modern Thai restaurant led by chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America. Interestingly, the name “Le Du” comes from the Thai word for “season,” which is fitting as the menu changes according to seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Le Du’s food is a refined interpretation of traditional Thai dishes, meticulously crafted with an avant-garde touch. Don’t miss their signature Khao Chae (rice soaked in aromatic water), or their grilled river prawn accented with seasonal herbs. The minimalist, industrial-chic decor provides a relaxing yet upscale vibe, perfect for a special evening in the city.

Image by freepik

– Locations:
– 399/3 Silom Soi 7, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok
– Easy access from Chong Nonsi BTS Station

Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin

Situated within the elegant Siam Kempinski Hotel, Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin is renowned for its innovative Thai molecular gastronomy. Helmed by Chef Henrik Yde-Andersen, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves playful renditions of traditional Thai dishes, such as their famed frozen red curry or tom yum with lobster presented in an unconventional yet delightful way. Each bite is full of surprises, making it not just a meal but an unforgettable dining experience. Sra Bua stays true to the flavors of Thailand, while pushing the boundaries with creativity and artistic presentation.

– Location:
– Siam Kempinski Hotel, 991/9 Rama 1 Road, Bangkok
– Walking distance from Siam BTS Station

Paste

Another Michelin-starred gem, Paste is a stylish restaurant located in the heart of Bangkok’s high-end shopping complex Gaysorn Village. Chef Bongkoch “Bee” Satongun specializes in elevating century-old Thai recipes and forgotten cooking techniques with modern flair. Paste is especially celebrated for its masterful use of rare Thai flavor combinations and indigenous herbs. Signature dishes include river prawns topped with chili paste and garnished with seasonal fruits like tamarind and young ginger. The ambiance is contemporary yet rooted in Thai art and culture, with arched ceilings and carefully curated decor.

– Location:
– Gaysorn Village, 999 Phloen Chit Road, Bangkok
– Near Chit Lom BTS Station

Nahm

Nahm, found at the COMO Metropolitan Hotel, has long been one of Bangkok’s top restaurants for high-end Thai food. With a Michelin star under its belt, internationally recognized Chef Pim Techamuanvivit takes charge of a menu that focuses on authentic Thai flavor profiles combined with quality produce sourced from across Thailand. Their signature highlights include their iconic red curry duck or chor muang (flower-shaped dumplings). For those who appreciate a well-thought-out tasting menu, Nahm truly shines. The elegant, dimly lit interiors make it an excellent destination for a romantic or celebratory dinner.

– Location:
– COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, 27 South Sathorn Road
– Sathorn area, close to Lumphini MRT Station

Baan

For those seeking a more casual yet still upscale experience in Bangkok, Baan (which translates to “home”) is led by Chef Ton from Le Du, with an emphasis on home-style Thai cooking. The dishes here reflect comforting flavors, using family recipes passed down across generations but executed with high-quality technique and presentation. Popular menu items include Khao Khluk Kapi (fried rice with shrimp paste) and tom khlong pla krob (smoked fish soup). The warm interiors and relaxed environment make it a great spot to share a more intimate meal with friends or family, all while savoring refined takes on classic dishes.

– Location:
– 139/5 Wireless Road, Pathumwan (opposite Central Embassy)
– Within walking distance of Phloen Chit BTS Station

Bangkok is a treasure trove for those who wish to dive into the heart of Thai culinary arts, and these top Thai restaurants elevate the experience to newer heights. Whether you’re after molecular gastronomy or comforting, home-style dishes served in the most sophisticated settings, Bangkok has something special waiting at every corner. From top-tier chefs with Michelin stars to restaurants that take pride in preserving age-old traditions while infusing them with innovation, these places offer the best Thai food Bangkok has to offer.

Hidden gems loved by locals

While Bangkok boasts some of the most famous Thai restaurants, there’s a whole world of hidden gems that locals swear by. These eateries may not always make it onto tourists’ itineraries, but they are beloved by Bangkokians for their authentic flavors and unpretentious atmospheres. If you’re looking to experience the best Thai cuisine the way locals do, then these quaint, understated places should be at the top of your list.

Jay Fai (เจ๊ไฝ)

One can’t talk about hidden gems in Bangkok without mentioning Jay Fai, often described as the “queen of street food.” Jay Fai, a humble, one-woman street-side eatery, received a Michelin star for its incredible crab omelets and drunken noodles. Run by its iconic chef, who famously cooks while wearing ski goggles to shield herself from the heat, Jay Fai’s restaurant exudes an authentic, old-Bangkok vibe. Don’t let the initial street-side appearance fool you—even though Jay Fai’s dishes come with a higher price tag compared to typical street food stalls, the freshness of the seafood and the culinary prowess behind each plate make it a top Thai restaurant in its own right.

– What to order: Crab Omelet, Drunken Noodles with Seafood
– Location: 327 Maha Chai Road, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

Nai Mong Hoi Thod (นายหมงหอยทอด)

Hoi Thod, or crispy oyster omelet, is an iconic dish found around Bangkok, but if you ask a local where to go for the very best, they might direct you to Nai Mong Hoi Thod. This small, family-run spot has been serving up this traditional dish for decades and has garnered a reputation as one of the best Thai food Bangkok has to offer. Their oyster and mussel omelets are light, crispy, and expertly cooked so that you get the perfect balance of crunch and softness with each bite.

– What to order: Crispy Mussel Omelet, Oyster Omelet, Pad Thai
– Location: 539 Phlap Phla Chai Road, Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

Kuay Jab Mr. Jo (ก๋วยจั๊บมิสเตอร์โจ)

Step into Kuay Jab Mr. Jo, a hidden treasure serving the best kuay jab in Bangkok, and you’ll soon understand why Thai locals love this place. Kuay jab is a rich, aromatic noodle soup made with thick-cut noodles, crispy pork belly, and an intensely flavored broth. Mr. Jo’s version is the talk of the town—and the crunch of the crispy pork belly alone will bring you back for a second serving. Nestled in the heart of Bangkok’s bustling Bang Rak area, this spot feels consistently packed, and with good reason.

– What to order: Kuay Jab with Crispy Pork Belly, Duck Soup
– Location: 313/7 Chan Road, Soi 42/1, Yannawa, Sathon, Bangkok

Khao Gaeng Jake Puey (ร้านข้าวแกงเจ๊กปุ้ย)

If you want a truly local experience in sampling the best Thai dishes, head over to Khao Gaeng Jake Puey for the most outstanding rice and curry dishes in Bangkok. What sets this tiny, streetside stall apart is the vibrant spectrum of curries served, from green curry to massaman, all bursting with robust, aromatic flavors. Open only in the evenings, grab a stool under the open sky and indulge in Thai comfort food in its finest, simplest form.

– What to order: Beef Green Curry, Stir-Fried Pork with Holy Basil
– Location: 435 Thanon Mangkon, Chinatown, Bangkok

Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice (โกอ่าง ข้าวมันไก่ประตูน้ำ)

For those seeking a Michelin Bib Gourmand experience at a modest price, look no further than Go-Ang Pratunam Chicken Rice. Known for its Khao Man Gai (Thai Hainanese chicken rice), this unassuming stall draws both locals and curious travelers alike. The juicy, tender chicken, accompanied by fragrant rice and served with a bold, slightly spicy ginger sauce, elevates this simple dish to something unforgettable. It’s no wonder locals keep coming back for more.

– What to order: Khao Man Gai (Chicken Rice), Chicken Soup
– Location: 960-962 Petchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok

These treasured, under-the-radar spots make up the backbone of Bangkok’s culinary scene, offering an authentic taste of the city that only locals tend to know. Trying a meal at one of these hidden gems could just be the highlight of your trip, giving you a true insider’s experience with the best Thai cuisine that Bangkok is known for.

Best Thai food markets for authentic cuisine

When it comes to exploring Thai food in Bangkok, food markets offer one of the most immersive and authentic experiences. These markets brim with flavors, aromas, and culinary traditions that reflect the true essence of Thailand. From street stalls to bustling food courts, the sheer variety of dishes makes these markets a go-to for anyone seeking adventurous flavors. Whether you’re a local or a foodie traveler, these markets transport you into the beating heart of Bangkok’s culinary culture. Let’s dive into some of the most famous and authentic Thai food markets where the best Thai dishes await you.

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Widely known for shopping, the Chatuchak Weekend Market is also home to some of the best Thai street food in Bangkok. Whether you’re picking up a stick of grilled pork skewers, slurping a bowl of spicy Tom Yum, or savoring an icy Thai tea, Chatuchak offers endless options to please every palate. One of the benefits of visiting this market is getting to sample a wide array of street food under one massive roof (and a few alleys).

– Highlights: Moo Ping (grilled pork skewers), Pad Thai, Coconut ice cream, Som Tum (papaya salad)
– Location: Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak
– Best time to go: Weekends (morning to late afternoon)

Or Tor Kor Market

Ranked as one of the world’s best fresh markets, Or Tor Kor Market is the place to go if you want high-quality ingredients and exceptional dishes. Unlike other more chaotic markets, Or Tor Kor is clean, organized, and renowned for its premium offerings. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood to tropical fruits, as well as food stalls serving the best Thai street food Bangkok can offer.

– Highlights: Pla Pao (grilled fish), Massaman curry, Fresh fruit smoothies, Khanom Krok (coconut pancakes)
– Location: 101 Thetsaban Road, North of Chatuchak
– Best time to go: Early morning or after noon

Talat Rot Fai (Train Market)

For a more lively, youth-oriented atmosphere, Talat Rot Fai is the perfect spot. Popular among both locals and tourists, this market has a hip vibe offering a mix of street food, retro shops, and entertainment. The wide variety of dishes here ranges from traditional Thai street food to quirky, fusion-inspired choices. This makes it a must-visit for the best Thai food in a larger social setting. Try some of the deep-fried snacks or refresh yourself with iced tea after wandering through the eclectic stalls.

– Highlights: Khao Soi (Northern-style curry noodle), Roti Sai Mai (cotton candy in a crepe), Chicken Satay
– Location: Srinakarin Soi 51, Srinakarin Rd
– Best time to go: Evening onwards (always busiest around 6 to 8 PM)

Bang Rak Market

Nestled in one of Bangkok’s oldest neighborhoods, Bang Rak Market is a stunning patchwork of historic architecture and incredible food. This is a prime place for Thai street food enthusiasts who want to explore dishes that are less touristy and more localized. Known as the District of Love, Bang Rak has a long history of Chinese, Muslim, and Thai culinary influences, which guarantees an exciting mix of flavors. You’ll find everything from spicy curry bowls to delicate Thai desserts made on the spot.

– Highlights: Boat noodles, Mango sticky rice, Khanom Buang (crispy crepes), Stir-fried crab
– Location: Charoen Krung Road, Bang Rak
– Best time to go: Late morning to early evening

Suan Plu Market

Suan Plu Market is an absolute neighborhood favorite for locals, and a hidden gem for those seeking authentic Thai food Bangkok locals grew up with. It’s not overly crowded with tourists, allowing you to experience a slice of local daily life. Best known for its affordable but delicious dishes, Suan Plu offers an impressive selection of ready-to-eat meals and fresh produce in a laid-back setting.

– Highlights: Khao Man Gai (chicken rice), Grilled sausages with rice, Som Tum (papaya salad), Fresh spring rolls
– Location: Soi Suan Plu, Sathorn
– Best time to go: Mornings are ideal, from 6 AM to 10 AM

Visiting these food markets in Bangkok offers more than just a meal—it’s an unforgettable journey through Thailand’s rich culinary heritage. Whether it’s indulging in familiar flavors like Pad Thai or stepping out of your comfort zone to try dishes like Khao Soi, you’ll quickly see why Bangkok is a global hub for the best Thai food, street food, and local flavors.

Vegetarian and vegan-friendly Thai options

Bangkok is a paradise for plant-based food lovers, with a growing range of vegetarian and vegan options that rival the city’s traditional meat-centric dishes. Despite Thai cuisine’s heavy use of fish sauce, shrimp paste, and meat, many chefs have embraced the challenge of creating flavorful, plant-based alternatives, ensuring you won’t miss out on the best Thai cuisine Bangkok has to offer. From authentic vegetarian versions of classic street food to innovative vegan eateries that push culinary boundaries, the city ensures there’s something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most satisfying vegetarian and vegan-friendly Thai dishes you can sample while in Bangkok, as well as the top spots to find them.

1. Vegan Som Tum (Papaya Salad)

Traditional Som Tum (papaya salad) may often come with fish sauce or dried shrimp, but many stalls now offer vegan versions that substitute these ingredients with soy sauce or just exclude them altogether, allowing the natural, fresh flavors to shine through. This dish combines shredded green papaya, tomatoes, crushed peanuts, lime, chilies, and palm sugar, resulting in a salty, sweet, and spicy salad that feels refreshing and satisfying, perfect as a light but flavorful meal.

– Where to find vegan Som Tum in Bangkok:
– May Veggie Home (Sukhumvit Road, Asok area)
– Broccoli Revolution (Sukhumvit 49)
– Somtum Der (Sala Daeng, Silom)

2. Pad Thai Jay (Vegan Pad Thai)

Pad Thai is world-renowned, and luckily for vegetarians, “jay” (vegan) versions can easily be found. Vegan Pad Thai replaces the traditional egg and fish sauce with tofu and plant-based seasonings while retaining the delightful mix of stir-fried rice noodles, tamarind paste, and crunchy peanuts. The result? All the umami-rich, sweet, and tangy goodness of the classic version, only fully plant-based.

– Where to enjoy vegan Pad Thai in Bangkok:
– Ethos Vegetarian (Thanon Tanao, Phra Nakhon)
– Khun Churn (Ekkamai)
– Baan Suan Pai (Phra Nakhon, near Chatuchak Market)

3. Gang Kiew Wan Tao Hoo (Green Curry with Tofu)

Green curry is typically rich, creamy, and fragrant, but the non-vegetarian version is usually made with shrimp paste. Fortunately, you can still enjoy this iconic dish as a vegetarian, with vendors offering versions enriched with earthy tofu and packed with green chilies, coconut milk, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves. It’s smooth and spicy, with tofu acting as the perfect sponge to absorb bold curry flavors.

– Where to find vegan/vegetarian Green Curry in Bangkok:
– Mango Vegetarian & Vegan (Thanon Chakrabongse, Khao San area)
– Anotai (Rama 9)
– Somboon Green Vegetarian (Sukhumvit Soi 39)

4. Vegan Thai Spring Rolls

Who doesn’t love crispy, golden spring rolls? Traditionally made with pork or shrimp, vegan Thai spring rolls use varieties of vegetables, glass noodles, and mushrooms, encased in a perfectly crunchy fried wrapper. Paired with a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce, these rolls make for a satisfying and easy-to-eat treat, whether you’re on the go or sitting down to a market meal.

– Where to find vegan spring rolls in Bangkok:
– Bonita Cafe & Social Club (Pan Road, Silom)
– Dosa King (Sukhumvit, near Nana)
– Tien Sin Vegetarian Food (Yaowarat, Chinatown)

5. Khao Pad Jay (Vegan/Vegetarian Fried Rice)

Khao Pad, or Thai fried rice, is a staple dish that’s quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The vegetarian or vegan version uses an assortment of fresh vegetables and, most commonly, silken tofu, to complement the seasoned rice. Free from fish sauce and egg, this vegan-friendly option is just as aromatic and comforting as the original, and can be customized with various vegetable toppings and spice levels per your liking.

– Where to eat Khao Pad Jay in Bangkok:
– Govinda Restaurant (Sukhumvit Soi 22)
– Veganerie Concept (Sukhumvit, Siam Paragon)
– May Veggie Home (Asok)

Bangkok’s street food has adapted to cater to all kinds of dietary needs, and the vegan and vegetarian scene is thriving. While many authentic dishes have been reinvented for plant-based eaters, their robust flavors and satisfying textures remain untouched, bringing you the best flavors of Thai cuisine in modern, ethical ways. For any plant-based foodie, Bangkok offers a rewarding culinary adventure.