Exploring Bangkok's Chinatown Cuisine Like A Rockstar: From Michelin-Starred Restaurants To Bib Gourmand Street Food

In the vibrant heart of Yaowarat, Bangkok’s Chinatown, is a culinary haven, offering a delightful mix of flavours and experiences. Following Chinatown’s latest surge in popularity from Blackpink's Lisa and her new single 'Rockstar', which prominently showcases the lively streets of Bangkok's Chinatown, here's a list of must-visit spots. These places range from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food stalls recognised by the prestigious Bib Gourmand. Whether you're a local or a tourist, these spots promise a memorable culinary journey.

1. Lim Lao Ngow China Town (Bib Gourmand)

Photo Courtesy of limlaongow.com

Photo credit: limlaongow.com

Highlight: A heritage spot, Lim Lao Ngow is celebrated for its handmade fish balls, a recipe perfected over 60 years. The tender fish balls paired with delicate noodles create a comforting and authentic taste. Although the family has several branches, the original in Chinatown remains our top pick.

Location: In front of building no 299-301, Song Sawat Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok

2. Guay Tiew Khua Gai Suanmali (Bib Gourmand)

Photo credit: tourismthailand.org

Photo Credit: tourismthailand.org

Highlight: Known for its roasted chicken noodles, this family-owned and managed small stall serves up perfectly charred,flavourful chicken noodles. The smoky aroma and unique texture make it a must-try. The dry option is served with crispy omelette, chicken and squid.

Although not located exactly in Chinatown, it’s 900 metres from the centre and within walking distance.

Location: Khlang Hospital Intersection, 266/1 Soi Thewi Worayat, Luang Road, Wat Thep Sirin, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok

3. S.B.L. (Bib Gourmand)

Photo credit: sblrestaurant.com

Highlight: S.B.L., open since 1954, is family-owned, consisting of mostly traditional Chinese dishes; a must try is the XO scallops and snow fish with soya sauce.

Location: 710-714 Maha Chai Road, Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

Although not located exactly in Chinatown, it’s just 1.1 kilometres from the centre.

4. Potong (One Michelin Star)

Highlight: Potong stands out with its innovative approach to traditional Thai-Chinese cuisine. Helmed by Chef Pichaya “Pam” Utharntharm, the restaurant offers a unique concept that blends culinary art with cultural heritage. Each dish is a modern take on classic recipes, presented with an artistic flair, using high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s ambiance and culinary creativity provide an upscale dining experience that is both unique and memorable as it’s set in a historical Sino-Portuguese building that used to be Chef Pam’s family’s Chinese pharmacy.

Location: 422 Vanich 1 Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok

5. Guay Jub Ouan Pochana (Bib Gourmand)

Photo Credit: tourismthailand.org

Highlight: This restaurant has been serving Guay Jub, a rice noodle soup dish made of rolled white rice noodles in peppery pork broth with pork offal and an egg. For over fifty years, the dish is served with two soup variations: clear pork bone broth and a darker broth. It’s a must-visit for noodle lovers.

Location: Yaowarat Road, Chakkrawat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok

6. Khao Phad Pu Chang Phueak (Woeng Nakhon Kasem) (Bib Gourmand)

Photo Credit: guide.michelin.com

Highlight: Renowned for its generous portions of fresh crab, this stall serves a delicious, well-seasoned fragrant crab fried rice with the most succulent crab meat, a simple yet delectable meal. The shop also serves other fried rice combinations.

Location: 140 Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok

These six spots provide a diverse taste of what Bangkok's Chinatown has to offer. Whether you're indulging in street food or experiencing the modern fusion cuisine at the Michelin-starred Potong, each visit promises a memorable dining experience. So, take a stroll through Yaowarat, and let your taste buds explore the richness of Chinatown's gastronomic scene.

Photo courtesy of Kartikey Das
Information provided by Michelin Guide