Heading To Bangkok Soon? Here Are 9 Must-Try Local Eats When You're There

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Whether you're a fan of fiery flavours or crave something savoury and hearty, the city's vibrant culinary scene has something for everyone. 

If you're up for a spice challenge, Phed Mark is the place to be. Co-owned by renowned food vlogger Mark Wiens, this small joint specialises in one thing — pad kra pao, Thailand's iconic stir-fried basil dish.

Here, you can choose your spice level and preferred protein, whether you prefer tofu for a vegetarian option or even wagyu beef. Each plate is packed with fragrant basil, protein, and a fiery kick that will have you reaching for that iced tea!

What makes Phed Mark stand out is the perfect duck egg they top the dish with — crispy on the edges with a runny yolk in the middle. This adds the perfect richness to the dish. Pro tip: Order the duck egg with the double yolk; you won't regret it.

The waiting line can be quite long, so get your number and take a stroll around the vicinity while you wait.

Address:
Main: 300 Sukhumvit Rd, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Delivery and takeaway only: 51/4 สุขุมวิท 49 Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Operating hours:
10am to 7pm (Daily)

Tucked away in a quiet alley in Silom, Kha Mu Charoensang Silom is famous for its khao kha moo — a slow-braised pork leg served over rice. The tender pork, with its melt-in-your-mouth texture, is perfectly complemented by the slightly sweet, savoury sauce.

You can also order a variety of sides like chewy pork intestines, braised pork trotters, pickled vegetables, and more. For the complete experience, don't forget to pair your meal with some of their spicy chilli vinegar sauce.

The shop opens at 7am and closes by 1pm, but their dishes tend to sell out before noon. So, make sure to arrive early for breakfast!

Address:
492/6 ถ.สีลม ติด Soi Charoen Krung 49, Suriya Wong, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand

Operating hours:
7am to 1pm (Daily)

For an authentic local experience, head to Khao Gaeng Jek Pui in Chinatown. Serving traditional Thai curries since the 1950s, this humble spot dishes out flavourful meals straight from the back of a small kitchen.

The menu offers a variety of rich curries, including yellow curry with pork, red curry with beef, green curry with chicken, pork panang, and more. Each curry is creamy, not too spicy, and perfectly balanced. For the best pairing, don't forget to add some fried Chinese sausage — it's a delicious complement to the flavourful curries.

What sets this place apart is its no-frills dining experience. There are no tables; instead, you'll sit on stools with your plate of curry in your lap, right in the alley. Surrounded by locals, you'll dig into hearty curries over steamed rice, just as the locals do. It's an unpretentious spot that packs serious flavour, offering a true taste of street dining in the heart of the city.

Address:
25 Mangkon Rd, Pom Prap, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100, Thailand

Operating hours:
2pm to 7.30pm (Daily)

Often crowded with both locals and tourists, Go-Ang is famed for its Hainanese chicken rice, a dish that's a bit different from the Malaysian version. The tender, poached chicken is served over fluffy, fragrant, flavourful rice with a side of clear broth, showcasing the beauty of simplicity. What sets it apart is the unique dark chilli dipping sauce, adding a burst of flavour to every bite.

Warm and comforting, this dish offers a soothing break from the fiery and bold flavours commonly found in Bangkok. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to savour one of Thailand's most beloved comfort foods.

Address:
Pratunam: 962 Phetchaburi Rd, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Lumphini: 17 Chaloem Loke Bridge, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Pichaiyat: Pichaiyat Building, ห้อง 104-106 ชั้น 1, 663-665 Mangkon Rd, แขวงสัมพันธ์วงศ์, เขตสัมพันธ์วงศ์, Bangkok 10100, Thailand
Siam Paragon: G Floor, Gourmet Eats Zone, Siam Paragon Shopping Mall, 991 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Ratchada: Esplanade Cineplex Ratchadapisek ชั้น B Ratchadaphisek Rd, Din Daeng, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Emquartier: 695 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Operating hours: 
6am to 2pm, 3pm to 10pm (Daily)

ZAP PONFAI is a hidden gem for seafood lovers, offering everything from marinated prawns and crabs to garlic mantis prawns, steamed cockles, and more. Their seafood is incredibly fresh, bold, and packed with flavour. Each dish is elevated by their unique tangy chilli dipping sauce and expertly marinated seasonings that make every bite unforgettable.

With a variety of sauces to pair with each dish, ZAP PONFAI takes seafood enjoyment to a whole new level. It's the perfect option when you need something refreshing and light.

Address:
22 Soi Chulalongkorn 12, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

Operating hours:
12pm to 9pm (Daily)

If you're craving Northern Thai cuisine, especially som tam (papaya salad), Somtum Pa Tam Phaya Thai is the locals' go-to spot, particularly for those working in the area. Known for its wide variety of Thai salads, each dish is cooked authentically with bold Thai flavours and made from the freshest ingredients.

You can customise your som tam with different spice levels and unique add-ons like salted eggs or fermented fish. For the ultimate street food experience, pair it with sticky rice and salt-baked fish. And don't miss their roasted pork neck, served with a special dipping sauce that enhances the tender meat.

Address:
2, 26 Phahon Yothin 7, Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

Operating hours:
10am to 9pm (Daily)
Closed on Sundays.

Nestled by a canal, Nhong Rim Klong is a seafood lover's paradise, offering fresh, flavourful dishes at affordable prices. A highlight of the menu is their famous crab omelette, which boasts an impressive 80% crab to 20% egg ratio, meaning you get generous chunks of succulent crab meat in every bite. The portions are large and satisfying, making it a popular alternative to Jay Fai's crab omelette, without the long queues.

This Michelin Bib Gourmand-approved stall also draws crowds for its stir-fried squid with salted egg, a fan favourite for both lunch and dinner. Be sure to visit early, as these iconic dishes tend to sell out quickly.

Address:
51 Ekkamai 23 Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand

Operating hours:
8.30am to 3.30pm (Daily)
Closed on Sundays.

Located near Lumphini Park, Polo Fried Chicken is home to the best fried chicken in Bangkok. The crispy, golden skin and tender, juicy meat make it a must-try, especially when paired with sticky rice and som tam. But what truly sets it apart is the generous topping of super crunchy fried garlic. If you're a garlic lover, this dish is a dream come true — the fried garlic adds an irresistible burst of flavour and texture.

The chicken is perfectly seasoned with a satisfying crunch, and it's no surprise that Polo Fried Chicken has won multiple Michelin awards.

Address:
137/1-3 Sanam Khli Alley, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

Operating hours:
7am to 9pm (Daily)

This popular spot is famous for its hoi tod — a crispy, savoury pancake packed with plump oysters or mussels. The oysters are fresh, juicy, and generously sized, and when paired with the tangy chilli sauce, the combination is simply irresistible.

The tangy sauce cuts through the richness of the crispy omelette, creating the perfect balance of flavours. If you're a seafood lover, this is an absolute must-try! They have multiple branches, so be sure to visit the one closest to you.

Address:
Thong Lor: 25/5 Thong Lo, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Ekkamai 14: 128/3, Ekkamai 14 Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110 Thailand
Charoen Nakhon: 1301 Charoen Nakhon Road, Bang Lamphu Lang, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600, Thailand
Onnut: 1242/1244 Soi On Nut 34, แขวง อ่อนนุช Suan Luang, Bangkok 10250, Thailand
Chokchai4: 314 ถนนลาดพร้าว53 ซ.โชคชัยสี่ ระหว่างซอย4 6 Soi Lat Phrao 47, Wang Thonglang, Bangkok 10310, Thailand

Operating hours:
10am to 10pm (Daily)