Bangkok is a food lover’s paradise, and its diverse, vibrant dishes reflect its rich cultural tapestry. Whether you're a fan of fiery street food or crave comfort in a bowl, the city offers an array of local delicacies that will leave your taste buds tingling. Here’s a list of the 10 must-try dishes every visitor should savor while in Thailand’s bustling capital.

1. Pad Thai – Thip Samai, Bangkok Old Town

What Makes It Special?
Often hailed as the best Pad Thai in Bangkok, Thip Samai’s version is cooked over charcoal and wrapped in an egg net. It’s smoky, silky, and slightly sweet—the OG of noodle joints.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
The classic Pad Thai with shrimp runs ฿90–฿120 ($2.50–$3.50). Dine-in only. Try the fresh orange juice—it’s legendary.

2. Som Tum (Papaya Salad) – Som Tam Nua, Siam Square

What Makes It Special?
This crunchy, spicy salad is a Thai staple. Som Tam Nua makes it bold and balanced—perfect for newcomers who want authentic but approachable heat.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
Som Tum with crispy pork or salted egg costs ฿80–฿100 ($2–$3). Casual indoor spot, often with a short queue.

3. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers) – Street Stall, Ari Night Market

What Makes It Special?
These juicy skewers are marinated overnight and grilled fresh over charcoal. The smell alone will have you lining up.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
Skewers are ฿10–฿15 ($0.30–$0.50) each. Add sticky rice for a street-food classic. Best eaten on the go.

4. Tom Yum Goong – Pe Aor, Ratchathewi

What Makes It Special?
This shrimp-packed soup is spicy, sour, and slightly creamy. Pe Aor’s version is loaded with seafood and loved by locals.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
Jumbo Tom Yum bowls start at ฿120 ($3.50). Small diner vibes, big flavors. Try it with rice for balance.

5. Khao Man Gai (Chicken Rice) – Go-Ang Kaomunkai, Pratunam

What Makes It Special?
This humble dish is Bangkok's version of comfort food. Tender poached chicken, fragrant rice, and a gingery soy sauce—simple, nostalgic, delicious.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
A plate runs about ฿40–฿60 ($1.20–$1.80). Michelin Bib Gourmand-rated. Super quick service.

6. Guay Teow (Boat Noodles) – Doy Kuay Teow Reua, Victory Monument

What Makes It Special?
Tiny bowls of intensely flavored pork or beef noodle soup, once served on boats. Locals challenge each other to stack the bowls high.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
฿15–฿20 ($0.40–$0.60) per bowl. You’ll need at least 5! Casual indoor seating.

7. Mango Sticky Rice – Mae Varee, Thonglor

What Makes It Special?
This sweet staple combines creamy coconut sticky rice with juicy ripe mango. Mae Varee’s version is famous across Bangkok.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
Around ฿120–฿150 ($3.50–$4.50). Takeaway only. Open late, and perfect for dessert after dinner nearby.

8. Hoy Tod (Oyster Omelet) – Nai Mong Hoy Tod, Chinatown

What Makes It Special?
Crispy on the outside, soft in the center, this oyster-loaded omelet is cooked in a sizzling hot pan for the perfect crunch.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
฿80–฿150 ($2.25–$4.25). Sidewalk seating. Try the mussel version too if oysters aren’t your thing.

9. Khao Soi – Ong Tong Khao Soi, Ari

What Makes It Special?
Originally from northern Thailand, this curry noodle soup has gone viral in Bangkok. Ong Tong’s version has crispy noodles on top and rich coconut curry underneath.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
฿90–฿120 ($2.50–$3.50). Chic but chill. Add pickled mustard greens and red onion for full flavor.

10. Khanom Buang (Thai Crispy Pancakes) – Chatuchak Weekend Market

What Makes It Special?
These delicate shell-shaped snacks come with sweet or savory fillings. Think coconut cream, shredded egg yolk, and minced shrimp in one crunchy bite.

Menu Highlights & Pricing
฿20–฿40 ($0.60–$1.20) per tray. Walk-and-eat street snack. Perfect while shopping.

Tips for Eating Like a Local

• Use LINEMAN or GrabFood to explore popular dishes locals love.

• Want a visual preview? Check out Chasing a Plate on YouTube for Bangkok eats.

• Avoid touristy food courts—night markets and roadside stalls have better flavor and better prices.

• Don’t shy away from spice—just ask for “mai pet” (not spicy) if needed.

Final Thoughts

Bangkok’s food isn’t just delicious—it’s cultural storytelling on a plate. Taste your way through this list, and you’ll understand why locals never get tired of home.