The Best Food, Markets and Bars in Bangkok
Bangkok is one of the world’s greatest food cities — a non-stop celebration of bold flavours, vibrant markets, and sky-high nightlife. Whether you’re hunting for fiery street food, colourful weekend markets, or stunning rooftop bars with city views, this guide covers the very best experiences the Thai capital has to offer.
Best Food in Bangkok
Pad Thai at Thip Samai
The most famous Pad Thai in Bangkok. This legendary spot has been perfecting the dish since 1966 and is still run by the same family. Their signature “special” version comes wrapped in a thin egg crepe with giant fresh prawns, banana blossom, and extra tamarind sauce that delivers the perfect sweet-sour balance.
The wok hei (breath of the wok) flavour is unmatched, and the portions are generous. Many locals and returning visitors claim this is the benchmark against which all other Pad Thai in Thailand is measured.
Location: 313 Maha Chai Rd, Phra Nakhon
Price: ฿100 – ฿150
When to go: Open 5:30 PM – 1:30 AM. Expect a queue — it’s worth it. Best to go after 7 PM when the rush calms slightly.
Jay Fai – Michelin Star Street Food
World-famous for her crab omelette and drunken noodles, this tiny shophouse earned a Michelin star for her fiery, perfectly executed street classics. Aunt Jay Fai, now in her 80s, still cooks every dish herself over charcoal stoves with decades of experience.
The massive crab omelette is crispy outside and fluffy inside, loaded with fresh crab meat. The drunken noodles with seafood pack serious heat and wok flavour. It’s expensive for street food, but the quality and theatre of watching her cook make it a bucket-list experience.
Location: 327 Maha Chai Rd, Phra Nakhon
Price: ฿400 – ฿1,200
When to go: Arrive early (opens 3 PM). Bookings not accepted. Expect long waits.
Khao Soi at Raan Khao Soi Islam
Creamy, spicy Northern Thai curry noodle soup with crispy fried noodles on top. This Muslim-style version in Banglamphu is widely regarded as one of the best in the city. The broth is rich with coconut milk, turmeric, and spices, served with pickled cabbage, shallots, and lime.
The combination of tender chicken, soft noodles, and crunchy toppings creates perfect texture contrast. It’s a comforting yet flavour-packed dish that represents the diversity of Thai cuisine. Many consider this the gold standard for Khao Soi in Bangkok.
Location: Soi 1, Samsen Rd
Price: ฿60 – ฿90
When to go: Lunchtime (11 AM – 4 PM). Closes early when sold out.
Best Markets in Bangkok
Chatuchak Weekend Market (JJ Market)
The largest weekend market in Thailand with over 15,000 stalls spread across 35 acres. You can find everything here — clothing, handicrafts, vintage items, antiques, plants, street food, and live pets. It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way.
Bargaining is expected, and the food section is excellent with cheap Thai classics. The market has a fun, chaotic energy that captures the true spirit of Bangkok shopping culture. Come prepared with comfortable shoes and plenty of time.
Location: Kamphaeng Phet Rd, Chatuchak
Price: Very affordable – most items ฿50 – ฿500
When to go: Friday 5 PM – 11 PM, Saturday & Sunday 9 AM – 6 PM. Go early morning to avoid the worst heat and crowds.
Asiatique The Riverfront
A beautiful open-air riverside night market with over 1,000 shops and restaurants. Located right on the Chao Phraya River, it offers fantastic views of the river and city skyline, especially at night when everything is lit up.
The atmosphere is more relaxed and upscale than Chatuchak. You’ll find boutique fashion, souvenirs, Thai crafts, and plenty of dining options ranging from casual street eats to proper riverside restaurants. The giant Ferris wheel adds to the festive vibe.
Location: Charoen Krung Rd (Sathorn Pier)
Price: Food ฿150 – ฿400 | Shopping varies
When to go: 5 PM – 11 PM daily. Best after sunset for the full romantic atmosphere.
Or Tor Kor Market
Widely considered one of the best fresh markets in Asia. This clean, well-organised market offers premium Thai fruits, fresh seafood, ready-to-eat Thai dishes, and an impressive flower section. The quality of produce here is exceptional.
Unlike typical wet markets, Or Tor Kor is air-conditioned and very visitor-friendly. Try the ready-to-eat food counters for excellent Thai curries, grilled items, and desserts. It’s the perfect place to experience high-quality Thai ingredients and street food in a comfortable setting.
Location: Kamphaeng Phet Rd (opposite Chatuchak)
Price: ฿80 – ฿250 per meal
When to go: 8 AM – 6 PM daily (best in the morning for freshest produce).
Best Bars in Bangkok
Sky Bar at Lebua
Iconic rooftop bar made famous by the movie “The Hangover Part II”. Located on the 63rd floor, it offers spectacular 360° views of Bangkok’s glittering skyline. The dramatic setting with city lights below is unforgettable.
Signature cocktails like the Hangovertini are excellent, and the service is top-notch. It’s a bucket-list experience for first-time visitors. The bar has a buzzing yet sophisticated atmosphere, especially around sunset when the sky turns orange and the city lights begin to sparkle.
Location: State Tower, Silom
Price: Cocktails ฿450 – ฿650
When to go: Sunset (5:30 PM onwards). Dress code applies (no shorts or flip-flops).
Thailand Craft Beer Scene – Mikkeller Bangkok
One of the best craft beer bars in Asia with a constantly rotating tap list of 30+ international and local brews. The bar offers excellent food pairings and a relaxed, knowledgeable vibe that appeals to both beer geeks and casual drinkers.
The interior is modern and comfortable, and they often host tap takeovers and events. It’s a great place to discover excellent Thai craft beers alongside global favourites. The bar food menu is surprisingly good and pairs perfectly with the beers.
Location: Sukhumvit Soi 26
Price: Beers ฿220 – ฿350
When to go: Evenings from 5 PM. Gets lively after 8 PM.
Moon Bar at Banyan Tree
One of the highest rooftop bars in Bangkok, offering incredible panoramic views in a more relaxed and romantic atmosphere compared to Sky Bar. Perched on the 61st floor, it feels intimate despite the height.
The cocktails are creative and well-balanced, and the sunset views are spectacular. It’s an excellent choice for couples or those wanting a slightly more chilled rooftop experience. The service is excellent and the dress code is enforced, keeping the crowd classy.
Location: Banyan Tree Hotel, Sathorn
Price: Cocktails ฿400 – ฿600
When to go: Sunset to late evening. Arrive early to secure good seats.
Pro Tip: Always carry cash for street food and smaller markets. Most rooftop bars have a smart casual dress code (no flip-flops or tank tops). Prices are approximate and may vary by season. Bangkok’s food scene is constantly evolving — don’t be afraid to explore beyond these classics!