a person buying food from a vendor selling street food in Bangkok

The Ultimate Guide to Bangkok's Best Street Food: Must-Eats and Top Markets

Bangkok, the vibrant and bustling capital of Thailand, is a paradise for food lovers. While the city boasts numerous restaurants serving delicious Thai cuisine, the heart and soul of its culinary scene are found in its bustling streets. From fragrant curries to mouthwatering noodles, Bangkok's street food scene is a foodie's dream come true. In this guide, we will explore some of the must-eats in Bangkok and the famous markets where you can savour these delectable dishes.

Must-eat Dishes in Bangkok

A plate consisting of Pad Thai placed on a table with a small plant in the background

Pad Thai

Our street food adventure begins with the iconic Pad Thai. This stir-fried noodle dish is a symphony of flavours, blending sweet, sour, and savoury tastes. You will find Pad Thai vendors on almost every street corner in Bangkok as it is arguably one of the best street food in Bangkok. For a classic experience, head to Thip Samai, often referred to as the "Pad Thai Pratu Pi" (Pad Thai at the Phra Arthit Intersection), where they have been perfecting this dish for decades.

Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)

For a burst of spicy freshness, try Som Tum. Made with shredded green papaya, chillies, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts, this salad is a Thai favourite, and a must-eat in Bangkok. One of the best places to enjoy Som Tum is at Jay Fai, a Michelin-starred street food stall.

a papaya cut in half with its seeds intact and a banana leaf in the background
a woman having a shrimp soup served in a bowl

Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)

Tom Yum Goong is a soup that tantalises your taste buds with its sour and spicy flavours. You can find this beloved Thai dish at many street food stalls, but Nong Rim Klong in Bangkok's Old City is renowned for its exceptional Tom Yum Goong.

Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers)

Moo Ping is a must-try for meat lovers. These marinated, grilled pork skewers are a popular snack or meal option. For an authentic taste, visit Soi Convent and look for vendors selling Moo Ping.

A street food vendor frying meat that is lined up in skewers
a taco served with meat and cilantro in it

Khanom Bueang (Thai Crispy Pancakes)

Khanom Bueang is a delightful Thai dessert. These crispy pancakes are often filled with sweet or savoury toppings like coconut cream and egg yolk threads. You will find them at street vendors all over Bangkok.

Top Street Food Markets

Chatuchak Weekend Market

Chatuchak Weekend Market is a shopping paradise, but it's also a food lover's haven. From grilled sausages to fried insects, this market offers a wide array of street food options. Don't forget to try the coconut ice cream, a refreshing treat in the Bangkok heat.

Many people sitting in the Chatuchak Weekend Market having street food
a person sitting and waiting for people to come and have food from his food stall

Asiatique The Riverfront

Asiatique combines shopping, dining, and entertainment along the Chao Phraya River. You can sample everything from Thai street food classics to international cuisine here. The riverside ambience adds to the experience.

Chinatown (Yaowarat)

Bangkok's Chinatown, Yaowarat, comes alive at night with neon lights and street food vendors. Try dishes like crispy duck, dim sum, and a wide range of seafood. You can explore the streets, discover hidden gems, and savour authentic flavours.

a view of the Yaowarat market in the night where many street vendors are cooking
various sign boards on the side of the road in Bangkok

Sukhumvit Soi 38

Sukhumvit Road is not only a bustling area for nightlife but also a fantastic hub for street food enthusiasts. Nearby, you will find Sukhumvit Soi 38, a street food heaven that springs to life in the evening. From pad Thai and mango sticky rice to satay and noodle dishes, you can explore a variety of culinary delights as is often referred to as the best street food in Sukhumvit.

Bangkok's street food is a treasure trove of flavours waiting to be discovered. From the iconic Pad Thai to the spicy Tom Yum Goong, and the sweet Khanom Bueang, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to explore bustling markets like Chatuchak and Yaowarat for a true taste of Bangkok's street food culture.

If you are planning your stay at the Night Hotel Bangkok on Sukhumvit Road, the best area to stay in Bangkok for street food, Sukhumvit Soi 38 is your go-to spot for delicious street food adventures. This boutique hotel offers 195 stylish rooms and 3 top-rated restaurants to ensure every guest gets everything they need. The hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool to relinquish the heat. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the streets of Bangkok and savour the flavours that make this city a food lover's paradise.

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