Thailand has emerged as one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. Bangkok, in particular, has always been a tourist hotspot, and a favourite among Malaysians thanks to its famous food scene, vibrant nightlife, and bustling shopping districts. So, if you’re planning for your next adventure in the wonderful capital of Thailand, keep reading!
In this list, you’ll find restaurants and cafes that serve the best Thai cuisines, shopping areas with the best finds and the best prices, as well as night spots where you can party the night away:
Cafes/ Restaurants
Thong Smith
If you didn’t eat boat noodles in Thailand, did you really go to Thailand? Famed for its boat noodles with rich broth and premium beef, Thong Smith is a favourite among locals and tourists. Their boat noodles are served in several combinations, generally in spicy broth or dry, with beef or pork. A good place to chill out after a long day on the busy streets.
Location: Central World, 3rd Floor #B302, 999/9 Rama 1 Road, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Phed Mark
Phed Mark specialises in a famous Thai comfort food called Pad Kaprao, a stir-fried dish combining holy basil (kaprao), minced meat, garlic and chillies served on rice, topped with a fried egg. Considered as the best pad kaprao you can find in Bangkok, the restaurant’s signature offering lets you choose between beef, pork, Thai sour sausage, wagyu beef, squid, and even a vegetarian version! There are five levels of heat you can choose from: non-spicy, much less spicy, less spicy, medium signature, and VERY spicy.
Location: 300 Sukhumvit Road, Phra Khanong, Khlong Toei, Bangkok 10110
Mae Varee
Like the boat noodle, Mango Sticky Rice is a Thailand staple! With 20 years of experience, Mae Varee’s Mango Sticky Rice is considered to be the city’s top spot for the classic Thai dessert. Aside from the mango sticky rice, Mae Varee also sells a variety of sweet desserts like mango sundaes, as well as whole mangoes.
Location: 1 Thong Lo Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110
Jeh O Chula
If you’re looking for a place to go for a late supper, Jeh O Chula is a favourite among locals and tourists. It’s famed for its viral Mama Tom Yum Noodles, which is essentially instant noodles served with mixed seafood such as prawns and squid, along with eggs and pork meatballs. Aside from the Instagram-worthy Mama noodles, they also serve other dishes like spicy Thai-style salad, salmon sashimi, and their signature crispy pork belly. However, you should expect a long que as it is a tourist hotspot. We recommend booking a head of time.
Location: 113/1, Soi Charat Mueang Rong Muang, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Shopping
Siam Square
Siam Square is an open-air shopping complex and a one-stop place to shop to your heart’s desire. This area stretches from Rama 1 Road down to the Chulalongkorn University Campus and from Phayathai Road over to Henri Dunant Street. Here, you will find popular and super Instagrammable stores like Gentlewoman, SummerDayyy, Daddy and the Muscle Academy, TRES., MatchBox, Moshi Moshi, Peylaaa, GUMP’s Ari Community Space, and many, many more!
Location: 388 Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
DD MALL
If you’re on the hunt for some cool vintage pieces, DD MALL is a thrifting haven that you must visit. The mall itself has 6 levels, and each level is split into different zones. On level 1 and 2, you’ll find valuable antiques, home decor and toys. Those looking for vintage clothing and accessories can head over to level 3, where they offer a curated selection of vintage streetwear brands like Nike, Carhartt, Dickies, Levi’s, as well as miscellaneous items like film cameras, vinyl records and movie posters! Level 4 and 5 are a goldmine for vintage band tees, reworked items, as well as many handmade items. They offer a wide range of fashion aesthetics at an affordable price, and most importantly, it’s AIR-CONDITIONED!
Location: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900
Chatuchak Weekend Market
Shopaholics who are on a budget can also visit the famous Chatuchak Market, also known as the largest market in Thailand. It’s packed with 8,000 stalls categorized into 30 sections, and it quite literally has everything you need! It’s a great place to find some cheap souvenirs, trendy clothing, and delicious street food. However, since it’s usually crowded, make sure to take care of your belongings to avoid pickpockets!
Location: 587, 10 Kamphaeng Phet 2 Rd, Khwaeng Chatuchak, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900
Unfound Projects
Streetwear enthusiasts can visit Unfound Projects, a multi-brand and lifestyle store that features streetwear, coffee, zines, and art. The store showcases in-house, local, and international brands including Young & Hungry, Blue Boyz Sports Club, GrindLondon, Pleasures, and Butter Goods. It also serves as a platform for local artists and designers to show off their work, whether it’s through music, art, or fashion.
Location: Lido Connect, Rama I Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330
Nightlife
Tichuka Rooftop Bar
Another spot that went viral on social media, the Tichuka Rooftop Bar is famous for its tree-like LED lighting design hanging above the bar. One of the highest rooftop bars in the area, you’ll be able to have an amazing view of the city skyline. The changing LED lights and beautiful atmosphere make this spot super Instagram-worthy! If you wanna skip a long queue, make sure to go early and catch the beautiful sunset.
Location: Phra Kanong, Khlong Toei Y-one Building 8, 46th Floor, Bangkok 10110
Soi Cowboy
Soi Cowboy is a famous red-light district and must-visit spot for those looking for an exciting nightlife in Bangkok. Explore the 150 meter street filled with Go-Go Bars and nightclubs surrounded by bright neon lights. Most of the bars and nightclubs welcome guests from 7pm to 2:30am, and the drinks are generally affordable. As always, be careful of scams and pickpockets. It’s worth a visit if you’re just passing by to see what the hype is all about.
Location: Between Sukhumvit Soi 23 and Asoke Road (Sukhumvit Soi 21)
Jodd Fairs Night Market
Considered as one of the best night markets in Bangkok, the Jodd Fairs Night Market is home to over 700 stalls offering food and clothes. The highlight of Jodd Fairs is definitely their food stalls, as they offer a wide range of Thai street food as well as international dishes. Visitors who wanna enjoy a chilled beer accompanied by live music can also head to their bar area, where they offer a wide range of local and international beers, ciders and more.
Location: Rama IX Rd, Huai Khwang, Bangkok 10310
Staneemeehoi
Looking to indulge in some delicious seafood with a side of eye-candy? Staneemeehoi went viral for their buff male waiters, a.k.a the “Thai Hot Guys”, who entertain customers in sexy female lingerie. Aside from their entertaining staff, their food is reasonably-priced, and you don’t have to pay to watch the waiters hip thrust to the loud music.
Location: 11 Prasert-Manukitch Rd, Lat Phrao, Bangkok 10230
