The street-food scene in Bangkok’s Chinatown is so enticing, it’s no wonder locals and tourists flock here daily. From classic dishes like Pad Thai and dumplings to unique specialties such as soy sauce ice cream, squid, crab claws, and more, the gastronomic possibilities here are endless!
Food Stalls
Thousands of food stalls fill the sidewalks and dark alleys of Chinatown every day. Sizzling woks and chopping boards tempt you with a feast of delicious smells and flavors that will have you coming back for more. But the real magic happens at night.
At night, Chinatown’s streets are lit up by hundreds of stalls – and they hiss, sizzle, and shoot flames into the air as they cook their wares. This is a thrilling experience and one you don’t want to miss!
Ong Ang Walking Street
As you stroll the streets of Chinatown, keep your eyes peeled for a small lane that runs between Sampeng Lane Market and Songsawat Road. This lane is too narrow for vehicles to use and is filled with stalls selling cheap household items, including toys, jewelry, and even a few Chinese pharmacies.
Ong Ang is also home to some of the best street-food in Bangkok, including Michelin-star-recommended yaoti stalls where you can try this fried dough dish in small pieces, served with pandan dip. This is a dish you can’t miss if you love yum cha and it is definitely worth trying on your trip to Bangkok!
Wat Mangkon Kamalawat
The largest and most famous temple in the area, Wat Mangkon is an essential place to visit when in Chinatown. Its massive gold and red temples are a peaceful respite from the busy streets of the city and its serene atmosphere has made it a popular destination for locals.
It is a great place to stop for a meal, especially during festivals and other important events. In addition to traditional Buddhist offerings, you can find temple food such as steamed buns or fried noodles.
Wat Traimit
The 3m-tall Golden Buddha in front of Wat Traimit is a must-see. If you have time, take a walk through the temple grounds as well, which is full of ancient sculptures and a stunning view of the skyline.
You can get to Wat Traimit on foot by heading down Ratchawong Road, up the lane that’s next to it (Charoen Krung), or by boat. If you’re coming by water, you can catch the Memorial Bridge Pier at the flower market, or a ride on the Harbor Department Pier at Odeon Circle.
Not all of Chinatown is Chinese, but the neighborhood still has a strong cultural identity and a history that dates back to 1782 when King Taksin founded the city. Besides being the center of religious and cultural life, the neighborhood is also a great place to shop for traditional and contemporary Thai goods.
New Market
If you’re in the market for some Thai spices, dried goods and other items used in Buddhist ceremonies, head to the “New Market” on the eastern side of Chinatown. This is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, but it can be a bit busy during the weekdays.