When visiting Bangkok, the food alone is worth the trip. From sizzling street stalls to bustling night markets, the city offers a flavorful journey through Thailand’s culinary soul. Whether you’re new to Thai food or already addicted to the spice and aroma, here are 7 must-try foods in Bangkok and what makes them special:
1. Pad Thai (ผัดไทย)
🍽️ What It Is: Stir-fried rice noodles with egg, tofu, shrimp, bean sprouts, and peanuts
📍Where to Try: Thip Samai Pad Thai, street vendors around Khao San Road
Bangkok’s signature dish, Pad Thai is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Topped with crushed peanuts and a splash of lime, it’s satisfying, light, and universally loved.
2. Tom Yum Goong (ต้มยำกุ้ง)
🍤 What It Is: Hot and sour soup with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime, and chili
📍Where to Try: Pe Aor Tom Yum, Yaowarat Chinatown
This iconic Thai soup delivers a flavor explosion in every spoonful. The broth is fragrant, spicy, and tangy—often considered the ultimate Thai comfort food.
3. Som Tum (ส้มตำ)
🥗 What It Is: Spicy green papaya salad with lime, chili, fish sauce, and peanuts
📍Where to Try: Som Tam Nua (Siam Square), Chatuchak Market
A fiery favorite from Northeast Thailand, Som Tum is crunchy, fresh, and addictive. Don’t be fooled by the light appearance—this salad packs heat!
4. Mango Sticky Rice (ข้าวเหนียวมะม่วง)
🥭 What It Is: Sweet sticky rice topped with ripe mango and coconut milk
📍Where to Try: Mae Varee (Thonglor), Or Tor Kor Market
This dessert is a tropical dream — soft sticky rice drenched in coconut cream served with juicy golden mango slices. It’s the perfect way to cool off after a spicy meal.
5. Khao Pad (ข้าวผัด)
🍚 What It Is: Thai-style fried rice with egg, vegetables, and your choice of meat
📍Where to Try: Street vendors everywhere, local eateries
Khao Pad is a go-to meal for locals — simple, fast, and flavorful. Usually served with cucumber slices and a lime wedge, it’s great on its own or with a bowl of spicy soup.
6. Kuay Teow Reua (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ)
🍲 What It Is: A different version of boat noodles served with beef, pork, or liver
📍Where to Try: Doy Kuay Teow Reua, Boat Noodle Alley
This version of boat noodles is thicker, richer, and sometimes more intense. Add chili flakes, vinegar, and peanuts to make it your own.
7. Thai Grilled Pork Skewers (Moo Ping – หมูปิ้ง)
🍢 What It Is: Marinated pork grilled over charcoal and served with sticky rice
📍Where to Try: Street stalls in Silom, Pratunam, and night markets
These sweet and savory pork skewers are a street food staple, especially in the morning. The caramelized glaze and smoky aroma make them incredibly tempting — and very affordable!