If you are a foodie like us, this Bangkok street food and market guide is your ultimate companion for finding amazing Thai street eats and shopping destinations. For fifteen years, the thought of visiting Bangkok simmered in the back of my mind. A city steeped in history, pulsating with life, and a Thai street food culture like no other. As someone who’s been cooking Thai food for nearly that long, traveling there at some point felt inevitable. Thai cuisine, with its masterful balance of spicy, sour, salty, savory, and bitter, had always been in my top five. But it wasnât just about the foodâthere was something deeper that drew me in. Thailand, with its centuries-old temples, rich history, and the serene undercurrent of Buddhist thought, had long captivated my imagination.
First Impressions Of Bangkok
Getting there wasnât easy. After over 27 grueling hours of travel, including a layover in Taiwan, I finally touched down in Bangkok. This trip wasn’t only for my sake, it was also Love’s birthday so she’d roped in her sister Rose’s family and her friend, Reah. On this trip, Love and I also visited Ayutthaya, Pattaya, and even Cambodia, but I’ll save those for other posts. Love and Reah had been to Bangkok before, but for me, this was uncharted territory. As I left the airport to meet them at our accommodation (KV Mansion), I took in my first real view of Bangkok. The city hit me like a shot of adrenalineâthis was a metropolis, a modern, sprawling beast of a city with an amazing skyline.
The streets seemed relatively safe and clean, a stark contrast to the grittiness I was used to in Los Angeles. And the MRT? It was like stepping into the futureâsleek, efficient, and miles ahead of the subways back home. Bangkok is a cosmopolitan city, teeming with both locals and foreigners, all blending into a vibrant fabric. After fifteen years of waiting, I could feel the city’s vibe urging me to dive in and explore.
My First Ever Meal in Thailand
Bangkok welcomed me with a dish that was as bold as the city itself. After my long trip I didn’t waste any time, I found myself at Krua Sailom, in KV Mansion, ready to try some authentic Thai food. I ordered som tam pu, a green papaya salad with a umami-rich river crab. The menu described it delicately, but I knew better; this was Thailand, after all.
The som tam was everything I imaginedâthe fresh green papaya and snake beans were crunchy, the Thai chilies provided a fiery kick, and the lime juice and tomato cut through it all with acidic brilliance. Then came the crab, it was a savory, briny punch to the palate. When Love’s sister Rose tried it, her reaction was pricelessâher face twisted in a mix of shock and disgust. I realized that my first dish in Thailand might have bordered on too bold for some, I’d officially entered the deep end of Thai cuisine.
| Address: | KV Mansion, 90 Bang Chak, Phra Khanong, Bangkok, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Som Tam Pu |
| Rating: | 3.7 / 5 |
The Flavors And Finds Of Chatuchak Weekend Market
After a very brief rest at our hotel, we plunged into the heart of Bangkok at Chatuchak Weekend Market. If thereâs a perfect way to be introduced to Bangkok, itâs through this chaotic and vibrant market. Street food stalls, spices, herbs, teas, textiles, and every souvenir imaginableâthis place has it all.
Love’s Haggling Masterclass
My first encounter with a Chatuchak market vendor was unforgettable. I was casually eyeing a Buddhist singing bowl, while Love was interested in a bronze elephant statuette. The vendor, sensing a potential sale, launched into a full-blown sales pitch. Love, a seasoned haggler, held her ground. What ensued was a verbal sparring match that ended with Love emerging victorious. With a begrudging smile, the vendor conceded, âYou win, youâre the champion,â as we left his stall with our spoils.
A Thai Take On Personal Care
As we wandered deeper into the market, I was struck by the quality and quantity of Thai personal care offerings. The fruit soaps are particularly impressiveâwe’re talking intricately-crafted, fruit-shaped soaps that almost smell like the real deal. There were mangosteen, mango, coconut, lemongrass, and mint â a cornucopia of tropical fruits and herbs in soap form. The selection of massage oils, pillow sprays, room sprays, and even mosquito repellents was equally remarkable, but it was the peppercorn oil that stood out to me. Up til today, it has become my go-to remedy for congestion and headaches.
Chatuchak Streetfood Gems
And then, there was the food â Bangkok is a street food paradise, with Chatuchak being one of its main destinations. I finally came across the famous Thai herbal sausage Iâd only read about, along with many variations of it. Another stall offered endless varieties of sushi, but the day’s highlight was the fried baby octopus at King Octopus. The little octopus, served with crisp cabbage, paired perfectly with the spicy, tart, and sweet nam jim seafood sauceâa revelation I knew I’d be recreating in my grilling sessions for years.
| Address: | 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Fried Baby Octopus |
| Rating: | 4.6 / 5 |
The Ultimate Bowl Of Coconut Ice Cream
Love introduced me to a coconut ice cream that put every other Western counterpart I’ve had to shame. No it wasnât from the famous Coco JJ stall, but this vendor served up something remarkable. The coconut jelly and peanuts they used as garnishes elevated the coconut ice cream to a level Iâd never experienced before.
| Address: | 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Coconut Ice Cream |
| Rating: | 4.5 / 5 |
Pure And Honest Freshly Squeezed Thai Fruit Juices
As we explored further, I noticed stalls dedicated to freshly squeezed juices, primarily orange, pomegranate, and passion fruit. They were displayed in their stalls in a novel way, which stood out to me. Instead of flashy signs or menus, they showcased their product with a brutal honesty â actual, freshly cut fruit. It was a silent promise of flavor, a visual and tactile guarantee of what was to come. The juices themselves are amazingârefreshing and perfectly balanced, not overtly sweet at all.
| Address: | 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Pomegranate and Passionfruit Juices |
| Rating: | 4 / 5 |
Discovering My Favorite Thai Dessert: Mango Sticky Rice
I knew I couldnât leave without trying one of Thailandâs most iconic dessertsâmango with sticky rice. At just 60 baht, it was a humble dish, but one that had been on my radar for years. The flavor of the perfectly ripe mango, paired neatly with the slightly chewy, aromatic sticky rice. What put it over the top was a generous drizzle of smooth and rich coconut cream, which delightfully offset the mangoâs natural sweetness.
| Address: | 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Mango Sticky Rice |
| Rating: | 4.3 / 5 |
Venturing Outside My Comfort Zone With Deep Fried Silkworm Larvae
As we wandered further into the depths of Chatuchak, we stumbled upon a vendor selling deep-fried insects. Inspired by Andrew Zimmernâs Bizarre Foods, I knew this was my moment to step far outside my comfort zone.
This vendor had a selection of what looked like something out of The Lion Kingâinsects that Timon and Pumba would have eagerly snacked on. Upon closer inspection, I realized they were deep-fried silkworm larvae, a local delicacy. Without hesitation, I bought a bag and took the plunge. Surprisingly my first impression was that they werenât too badâjuicy with a hint of funk, though definitely an acquired taste. It was a fun experience, but I quickly placed them in the category of novelty foods rather than something Iâd seek out again.
| Address: | 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Fried Silkworm Larvae |
| Rating: | 3.2 / 5 |
The Historic Grand Palace
The sheer grandeur of the Grand Palace made our short list of must-see attractions. With an entrance fee of 500 baht, its opulence unfolds before youâa sprawling complex that has served as the official residence of the King of Siam since 1782. For more than a century, this fortress of gold and intricate design was the seat of royal power, housing the king, his court, and the government until 1925.
The Grand Palace is not one single building, but a series of structures. Towering halls, ornate pavilions, and sprawling courtyards, all meticulously arranged around open lawns and tranquil gardens. The air is thick with the scent of jasmine and incense, hinting at the centuries of tradition that seep through its walls.
Navigating Through The Cultural Norms Of Thai Monarchy
Being that this was my first foray into what is technically a constitutional monarchy, I needed to adapt. Visitors are required to cover their legs before entering the Grand Palace, a sign of respect in a land where the monarchy and Buddhist traditions intertwine. As someone unfamiliar with the nuances of Thai royalty, the weight of these traditions can present a challenge. Loveâs friend Reah gave me a subtle warning after I casually referenced the king during a conversationâan innocent slip that could easily be mistaken for criticism by Thai people who might not understand what I actually said, given the reverence in which the monarchy is held.
Respect for the royal family extends to even the smallest details, like the treatment of Thai currency. Notes and coins, bearing images of the king, must not be folded or stepped on. Such acts are considered disrespectful, a sign of the deep-seated respect for the monarchy that permeates everyday life. Even the national anthem, played regularly on TV, radio, and in public spaces, brings the hustle and bustle of Bangkok to a standstill as most people rise in respect.
Wat Pho
After leaving the Grand Palace, a short walk led us to Wat Pho, one of Bangkokâs oldest temples. Established by King Rama I in 1782, the temple is a peaceful contrast to the cityâs hustle and bustle. Wat Pho is not just any ordinary templeâit is a living monument to Thai spirituality, culture, and history.
The Reclining Buddha
At the heart of Wat Pho lies the breathtaking Reclining Buddha, a massive golden figure stretching 46 astonishing meters. The sheer scale of this statue is awe-inspiring, with its enormity requiring an entire building to house it. As you walk along the length of the Buddha, 108 bronze bowls line the path, inviting visitors to drop a coin in eachâa symbolic gesture believed to bring wealth and prosperity.
The Reclining Buddha’s posture is no accident,it represents the Buddha in his final moments before achieving Nirvana, or spiritual enlightenment. The soles of the Buddhaâs feet are adorned with intricate iconography, delicately etched in mother of pearl.
Wat Pho is also known as the birthplace of traditional Thai medicine and massage. Even today, these ancient practices are taught and performed within the temple grounds, connecting visitors to a long tradition of healing and wellness.
The Chedis Of Wat Pho
This temple is a maze of spiritual and architectural wonders. Among them are 91 chedis or stupas, adorned with colorful pottery, adding a vibrant splash of color to the temple’s serene atmosphere. The most prominent of these is the Phra Maha Chedi Si Rajakarn, a group of four towering stupas, each reaching a height of 42 meters, dedicated to the first four kings of the Chakri Dynasty.
Wat Arun: Temple Of The Dawn
After visiting Wat Pho, we took a short ferry ride to Wat Arun, the Temple of the Dawn. This iconic temple, which traces its roots back to the Ayutthaya era, is named after Aruna, the Hindu god of dawn. The architectural design of Wat Arun was inspired by Mount Meru, the center of the world in Buddhist cosmology.
Upon arrival, we witnessed the two enormous Yakshas(ornately decorated statues) guarding the Ordination Hall of the Monk. However, the true landmark of Wat Arun is its towering 70-meter stupa-like structure, Phra Prang, which stands majestically against the sky. Entrance to the temple grounds is free, but ascending Phra Prang requires a modest 100 baht fee.
Wat Arunâs unique beauty lies not only in its spiritual significance but also in the intricate details of its design. The temple was bathed in the golden light of late afternoon, with the sun casting long shadows that accentuated the ornate porcelain and seashells embedded in the towerâs surface. The climb up Phra Prang offered stunning panoramic views of the Chao Phraya River, making the small fee seem insignificant in comparison to the experience.
Pratunam Night Market
Pratunam Night Market, nestled in the heart of Bangkokâs Ratchathewi District, stands as one of the cityâs most popular night markets. While Chatuchak may dominate the weekend scene, Pratunam shines during the week, offering a more accessible and budget-friendly shopping experience. This market has made its name with low prices on clothes and souvenirs, often outshining other venues like Platinum Fashion Mall.
Arriving in the evening, the market was already alive with a mix of locals and tourists. The air was filled with the scent of grilled squid and river prawns sizzling over charcoal, pad thai being tossed in woks, and dumplings steaming in bamboo baskets. Pratunam Market’s selection of street food was overwhelming in the best way possible.
Authentic Flavors at ABCF Thaifood
We eventually chose a small hole-in-the-wall at Pratunam, ABCF Thaifood, lured by the prospect of authentic Thai flavors. The pla pao, a whole grilled fish stuffed with herbs, arrived first, served with a side of nam jim seafood sauce. The fish was perfectly cooked, the salt-encrusted skin charred just enough to add a smoky depth, while the flesh remained tender and juicy. I liked its elegance and simplicity so much, I learned how to make it myself (read recipe here).
Next came the fried morning glory with garlic, a simple yet flavorful dish that balanced the spiciness of the other dishes. Finally, the tom yum kha, a version of the classic tom yum soup but enriched with coconut milk, hit the table. Creamy and rich, it packed a surprisingly spicy punch that I hadnât encountered before, despite having cooked tom yum for years. This was the real deal, a reminder that my home-cooked versions, at that point, were a Westernized imitation.
| Address: | 99/5 Ratchaprarop Rd, Thanon Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Pla Pao, Tom Yum Kha, Fried Morning Glory With Garlic |
| Rating: | 4 / 5 |
Platinum Fashion Mall
If you’re looking to dive into the heart of Bangkok’s shopping culture, head to Platinum Fashion Mall near Pratunam Market. Conveniently near the Chidlom or Ratchathewi BTS Skytrain, this retail and wholesale destination contrasts sharply with Pratunam Market’s labyrinthine style. Inside Pratunam, youâll navigate through a maze of passageways filled with clothing that more reflects local tastes. On the outside of Pratunam Market, the typical touristy items like T-shirts and handbags dominate.
Bargain Hunting
Step into Platinum Fashion Mall, and youâre greeted by the cool embrace of air conditioning, a welcome relief from Bangkokâs tropical heat. The mall is six floors of shopping madness, with a staggering variety of clothing, shoes, and accessories. Here, you can shop till you drop, with both wholesale and retail options available. The more you buy, the bigger the discountâperfect for those who love a good bargain. While the exterior of the mall gives off an upscale vibe, inside, it feels more like an indoor swap meet, but with great quality clothing at very low prices.
One thing to keep in mind is sizingâthe clothing is designed for Asian body types, so Westerners might need to scale up. Itâs easy to lose track of time here, hours can slip by as you hunt for the best deals. Thankfully, ATMs are readily available when you need to refill your wallet.
Platinum Shopping Mall Street Eats
But what would a day of shopping in Bangkok be without indulging in some street food? Adjacent to Platinum is a lineup of street food serving up shrimp dumplings, giant river prawns, pad thai, and more. We couldnât resist the spicy, smoky aroma of some BBQ pork skewers locally known as moo ping. They were so good we ate them at a âno eatingâ table without realizing until afterward.
| Address: | Thailand, Samut Prakan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, ŕ¸ŕ¸ŕ¸ŕ¸ŕ¸ŕ¸˛ŕšŕ¸ |
| What We Had: | Grilled Shrimp and Pork Skewers |
| Rating: | 4.3 / 5 |
Train Night Market Ratchada (Now The One Ratchada)
If you’re looking to experience some more of Bangkok’s vibrant night market scene, the Train Night Market Ratchada, recently rebranded as The One Ratchada, is a must-visit. Situated on Ratchadaphisek Road, this market has a unique charm that starts even before you enter. To get there, you cross the historic Ratsada Phisek Bridge, a white bridge built by King Rama V to commemorate his reign, which was longer than that of any previous Thai king. This market, open from 5 am to 6 pm, originally earned the nickname ‘train market’ because it was once located alongside Bangkok’s suburban train lines, right behind Chatuchak Weekend Market.
Ratchada Finds
This market is famous for its diverse food and drink options, and itâs hard to resist the amazing aromas that fill the air as you explore. The setup is straightforward: one side of the market is dedicated to shopping, offering everything from vintage home decor to handmade goods, while the other side is a food haven. Thereâs so much to see and eat here that one trip isnât enough to take it all in.
While wandering through Ratchada, I found soaps that looked perfect for gifting to family members back home. The market also offers plenty of clothing stalls, and if you’re in the mood for some self-care, you can even get a haircut or a pedicure.
My Quest To Encounter Pla Tod Kamin
But letâs talk about the food, because thatâs where this market truly shines. I had been on the lookout for a dish called pla tod kamin, a fried fish dish made with fried turmeric and garlic. My fascination with this dish started years ago when I used to live in Belize. It all started when I went on a fishing trip with some friends and seasoned our fresh catch with turmeric, garlic, black pepper, and salt. My friend, who owned a local Chinese restaurant there, fried the fish in his wok, and we ate it with plain white rice. It was the best fried fish Iâd ever had, and I had been chasing that experience ever since.
At Ratchada, as we searched for pla tod kamin, we passed an epic array of seafood dishes that are now on my must-try list for future visits to Bangkok: grilled mussels, lobster, and even turtle. But when I finally found the pla tod kamin, it was well worth the wait. The elegance and simplicity of the dish, fried turmeric and garlic paired with perfectly fresh fish. The nam jim seafood dipping sauce, with its sharp acidity, perfectly cut through the richness of the fish.
| Address: | 55 10 Ratchadaphisek Rd, Din Daeng, Bangkok 10400, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Pla Tod Kamin |
| Rating: | 4.4 / 5 |
Pad Thai Fire Look at Sukhumvit 38 Night Market
In the heart of Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit Soi 38 Night Food Market, a signature stall awaitedâthe popular Pad Thai Fire Look. Soi 38 Night Market street food scene buzzed with life, with a variety of stalls offering street food options from mango sticky rice to tom yum, and crispy pork with kale. Run by an older couple who could probably teach most modern chefs a thing or two about wok-wielding skills, this place serves up some of the best pad thai I’ve ever tasted.
Mr. Dum, the chef, was easy to spot, his signature beanie and fiery wok the only clues needed. The intense heat of his wok delivers a unique searing kiss to each ingredient, creating a unique pad thai experience . Less oily, more balanced, this version struck the perfect harmony of sweet, salty, sour, spicy, and even a hint of bitterness.
After ordering the Blazing Pad Thai with shrimp, it was clear: this was the best pad thai I’d ever had. The ingredients? Fresh as can be. The flavors? Bold. The balance of sweet, salty, sour, spicy, and bitter? Perfect. It’s a world away from the overly sweet pad thai that I’ve been accustomed to in the US.
Want proof? They give you a separate bag of fresh garlic chives, bean sprouts, lime, and vinegar with fresh chilies. Customize your dish to your liking, a sign of confidence in their product. And the oil? Forget that greasy mess, this pad thai is light and refreshing.
| Address: | ŕ¸ŕ¸ŕ¸˘ สุŕ¸ŕ¸¸ŕ¸Ąŕ¸§ŕ¸´ŕ¸ 38 Sukhumvit Rd, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Blazing Pad Thai With Shrimp |
| Rating: | 4.8 / 5 |
CentralwOrld Square Street Food
While roaming the streets of Bangkok, we stumbled upon CentralwOrld Square, another street food haven that was impossible to ignore. The area was well-lit and impeccably clean, a stark contrast to the typical chaotic charm of Bangkokâs street food scenes. Each dish was presented with its name and price clearly stated, making it easy to navigate the vast variety of offerings.
As we wandered through the stalls, we noticed some enticing dishes: colorful tom yum fried rice, smoky pork satay, and grilled squid. Many dishes were vibrantly displayed over deep green banana leaves, inviting you to indulge.
By chance, we came across a dish we had been eagerly seeking outâMoo Tod, or Thai fried pork. The pork is typically marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, pepper, and coriander roots, giving it a depth of flavor that’s impeccable. Our order was crispy on the outside yet tender and succulent within, served with a side of tangy and spicy nam jim dipping sauce. The combination was amazing, each bite bursting with the rich, savory taste of the marinated pork, balanced by the heat and acidity of the sauce.
| Address: | 127 Ratchaprasong Road, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Moo Tod |
| Rating: | 4.3 / 5 |
Iconsiam
Iconsiam was easily the most impressive shopping mall I’ve encountered in all of Thailand. Situated along the Chao Phraya River, the mall boasts over 500 shops and 100 restaurants, catering to every budget and taste.
The first thing that hit me was the architectureâmodern yet unmistakably Thai, a perfect blend of old and new. Walking through IconLuxe, the high-end section of the mall, I couldnât help but marvel at the worldâs largest glass wall. High-end brands are housed here, but even if luxury shopping isnât on the agenda, there is plenty more to explore.
An indoor floating market adds a unique cultural touch, a nod to Thailandâs traditional markets but with a modern twist. It was amazing to see a slice of Thai culture recreated inside this colossal shopping complex.
We were there to celebrate Loveâs birthday, and chose to go to Evaime Shabu Shabu on the 4th floor. For 499 baht per person, it is an all-you-can-eat shabu shabu experience that lasts up to 90 minutes. The Tom Yum hotpot was our choice, delivering a spicy Thai variation of a quintessential Asian favorite. Despite being in Iconsiam, the restaurant wasnât too crowded, allowing us to enjoy our meal in a relaxed setting.
| Address: | PGG5+FRH, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600, Thailand |
| What We Had: | Tom Yum Hotpot |
| Rating: | 4 / 5 |
Chao Phraya Princess Cruise
For a different perspective on Bangkok, the Chao Phraya Princess Cruise offers an unforgettable night on the river. As the boat set sail from the Iconsiam Pier, the cityâs iconic landmarks came into view, each one lit up against the night sky. Wat Pho, Wat Arun, the Grand Palace, and the Rama VIII Bridge glowed with an ethereal beauty. The Bangkok skyline stood tall in the background, a modern contrast to the historic sites we passed.
Live Entertainment And A Buffet
The cruise runs from 19:30 to 21:30, giving guests two hours of uninterrupted views. At 900 baht each, the experience is well worth the price. We were treated to live entertainment throughout the trip âtraditional Thai music resonating with the clinking of cutlery, and live dancers bringing the cruise to life.
The highlight for many was the all-you-can-eat buffet. Chefs in top hats presided over the spread, which featured a wide variety of dishes. There was something for everyone: fresh seafood, tangy som tam, delicate sushi, and a selection of fresh fruits. There is a wide array of fresh juices to choose from, while alcoholic drinks were available for an extra charge. The food was plentiful and varied, a delicious treat that complements the live entertainment.
| Address: | 2 & 4, ICONSIAM (Piers, 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600, Thailand |
| What We Had: | All You Can Eat Buffet |
| Rating: | 4.2 / 5 |
Conclusion
As the cruise glided along the Chao Phraya River, the juxtaposition of ancient temples and modern skyscrapers reflected the essence of Bangkokâwhere tradition meets modernity. The Chao Phraya Princess Cruise provided a unique vantage point, offering a serene yet striking view of the city that pulses with life day and night. It was the perfect end to our journey through Bangkokâs markets and street food scene, a reminder that this city, with its vibrant flavors and rich history, always has something more to reveal from every angle.