Hey everyone! As a travel enthusiast, I'm always on the hunt for incredible food experiences, and my recent trip to Bangkok's Chinatown (Yaowarat) was a culinary revelation. Inspired by Lisa's "Rockstar" music video, I decided to revisit some of my all-time favorite spots in the neighborhood and compile a list of must-try eats for anyone visiting this vibrant district.
So, if you're ready for a culinary adventure through the heart of Bangkok's Chinatown, buckle up! These are my tried-and-true picks, the ones I keep going back to:
1. 80-Year-Old Legacy: The Best Curry Rice in Chinatown?
First up is an 80-year-old institution featured on Netflix's "Street Food" documentary – a legendary curry rice stall with a bright red sign. Look for the alleyway seating area just behind the takeout window!
| Curry Type | Meat Options | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow Curry | Chicken, Pork, Beef, Fish | Starts at 40 THB |
| Red Curry | Chicken, Pork, Beef, Fish | Starts at 40 THB |
| Green Curry | Chicken, Pork, Beef, Fish | Starts at 40 THB |
I was bummed that the red curry beef sold out, but the yellow curry beef with an extra egg (58 THB) absolutely hit the spot! What sets this curry rice apart is its perfect balance of flavors – the coconut milk is prominent, but not overpowering, and the spice level is mild, making it perfect for anyone who can't handle too much heat.
The generous portions of tender meat and fluffy rice, drenched in flavorful gravy, make it a steal for the price. Pro-tip: don't skip the perfectly cooked, flavorful marinated egg! This is truly curry rice perfection, and a must-try for any first-timer in Yaowarat.
2. Three Generations of Sweetness: The Iconic Thai Lod Chong
Next, we're off to a charming shop specializing in a unique Thai dessert – Lod Chong. This family-run business has been serving up their signature treat since 1961, and believe me, it's worth the hype!
"Singapore Restaurant," as it's called, got its name from the Singaporean cinema that used to be located next door. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, well-made treats. Their Lod Chong (30 THB) features chewy green noodles made from tapioca flour and pandan juice, served over shaved ice and drenched in a rich, creamy coconut milk.
The pandan leaves lend a subtle floral fragrance to the noodles, while the coconut milk adds a touch of sweetness and richness. It's light, refreshing, and the perfect way to cool down on a hot day in Bangkok.
3. Michelin-Recommended Goodness: Oyster Omelette, Thai Style!
If you're a seafood lover like me, you can't miss this Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended oyster omelette stall. This place is tiny and always packed, so be prepared to wait in line – trust me, it's worth it!
They offer six different variations, but I always go for the classic Thai-style oyster omelette (100 THB). You can choose between a soft or crispy version – I opted for the crispy one, which features a thin layer of crispy batter made from rice flour and fresh eggs. The real star of the show, however, is the oysters – they are huge, plump, and incredibly fresh, bursting with flavor in every bite.
The accompanying sweet and spicy sauce adds a pleasant tanginess that complements the delicate flavor of the oysters perfectly. If you're looking for a quick, affordable, and absolutely delicious snack in Yaowarat, this is it!
4. A Chinatown Classic: 64 Years of Deliciousness at Chen Eey Kuey Chap
Next up is another Yaowarat institution – Chen Eey Kuey Chap, a family-run stall that has been serving up their famous kuey chap (pork noodle soup) for over six decades. Even though there's always a line out the door, the efficient service means you won't have to wait long to savor this comforting dish.
| Dish | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crispy Pork Belly | 200 THB | Large portion |
| Kuey Chap (Pork Noodle Soup) | 70 THB | Available in small and large sizes |
My go-to order is the large crispy pork belly (200 THB) and a bowl of their signature kuey chap (70 THB). The kuey chap features a flavorful, peppery broth, flat rice noodles, and your choice of toppings. I usually go for the works – tender pork slices, crispy pork belly, and various pork offal (you can ask them to leave it out if you're not a fan).
The crispy pork belly is phenomenal – incredibly juicy and flavorful, with a perfectly crispy skin. The kuey chap itself is equally delicious, with chewy noodles and a richly flavored broth that's bursting with pepper and umami goodness. It's a hearty, satisfying, and truly authentic taste of Yaowarat.
5. Worth the Wait: The Best Moo Satay in Chinatown
Finally, we're finishing our food tour with another one of my personal favorites – moo satay from a legendary street food stall that always has a line. This place is famous for a reason, so be prepared to wait for about 30 minutes for your order. But trust me, those perfectly grilled skewers of marinated pork are worth every minute!
| Item | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Moo Satay (Pork Satay) | 9 THB per skewer | Minimum order of 10 skewers |
They only serve one thing here – moo satay (9 THB per skewer, minimum order of 10) and they absolutely nail it. The pork is incredibly tender and flavorful, with a subtle chargrilled aroma that will make your mouth water.
But the real game-changer is the accompanying peanut sauce – it's rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, with just the right amount of sweetness and spice. I like to order an extra serving of bread just to mop up every last drop of that heavenly sauce!
Planning Your Rockstar Food Tour: Tips and Tricks
Navigating the bustling streets of Yaowarat can be an adventure, so here are a few tips to make your food tour a success:
- Come Hungry: With so many delicious options, you'll want to come with an empty stomach!
- Pace Yourself: Don't feel like you need to try everything in one go. Spread your food adventures over a few days to truly savor all that Yaowarat has to offer.
- Embrace the Chaos: Yaowarat is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Embrace the crowds, the noise, and the vibrant energy of this incredible neighborhood.
