Top 10 Authentic Thai Restaurants in Bangkok
When it comes to authentic Thai cuisine, Bangkok is a true culinary paradise. The city is home to some of the best traditional Thai restaurants, offering a delightful blend of rich flavors, fragrant herbs, and fresh ingredients. These 10 traditional Thai restaurants guarantee to satisfy your taste buds, whether you are craving spicy curries, tangy salads, or the best tom yum in town.
1. Krua Apsorn
Krua Apsorn is a local favorite, known for serving simple yet flavorful Thai dishes that are beloved by Bangkok residents. Their signature dishes include stir-fried crab meat with yellow chili and green curry with fish balls. The restaurant keeps a no-frills atmosphere, focusing solely on delivering high-quality traditional food.
Stir-fried crab meat with yellow chili. Krua Apsorn Facebook.
2. Methavalai Sorndaeng
Located just a short walk from Krua Apsorn, Methavalai Sorndaeng has offered a taste of authentic Thai cuisine since 1957. The dishes here are meticulously prepared, with a focus on traditional methods and presentation. Try Yam Som O (pomelo salad), crab meat and acacia red curry, baked pineapple curry rice with shrimps, and Khao Chae (rice in scented water).
Stir-fried seafood with holy basil. foodpanda.
3. Somtum Der
Somtum Der specializes in Isaan cuisine from northeast Thailand, which is known for its fiery flavors and bold ingredients. Their signature dish, Som Tum (spicy green papaya salad), is prepared with a variety of proteins like salted egg, shrimp, and crispy pork skin. Pair your papaya salad with their delicious Laab (minced pork salad) and Isaan sausage (fermented pork sausage) for an authentic Isaan experience.
Som Tum (green papaya salad). Somtum Der Facebook.
4. Supanniga Eating Room
Supanniga Eating Room offers authentic Thai comfort food, inspired by recipes passed down through generations. Don’t miss their signature dish, “Moo Cha Muang” (pork stew with garcinia leaves), Tom Yum Goong, a classic spicy shrimp soup with a zesty, tangy kick, fried Chinese cabbage in fish sauce, and massaman curry.
Delicious “Moo Cha Muang” is a must-try. Supanniga Eating Room Facebook.
Located at Tha Tien Pier, the restaurant enhances the dining experience with its stunning views of the Chao Phraya River and Wat Arun. It is a wonderful place for romantic dinners or a relaxing meal after a day of exploring Bangkok.
A dining area with a view of Wat Arun. Supanniga Eating Room Facebook.
5. Ruen Mallika
Located at Tha Tien Pier, the Set in a traditional teak house built in 1807, Ruen Mallika specializes in royal Thai cuisine, and the menu boasts a wide selection of authentic dishes. Try Tom Kha (galangal coconut soup), Tom Yum (spicy and sour soup), Pla Nuea (spicy beef salad), and mango or durian with sticky rice. Guests dine in a tranquil garden or indoors amidst soft lighting and antiques that evoke the charm of Thailand’s rich history.
Authentic Thai cuisince in the Sukhumvit area. Ruen Mallika Facebook.
6. Khua Kling Pak Sod
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Thonglor, Khua Kling Pak Sod is the go-to restaurant for locals craving spicy southern Thai cuisine. The standout dish here is Khua Kling (dry curry with minced pork), an intensely flavorful and fiery dish. Other specialties include Gaeng Leung (yellow curry with fish), stir-fried stink beans with shrimps, and Pla Tod (crispy fried fish). The restaurant’s low profile keeps it off the tourist radar, but it is beloved by those who seek truly authentic southern dishes.
“Khua Kling” is extremely spicy and tasty. Khua Kling Pak Sod Facebook.
7. Taling Pling
Taling Pling serves a variety of traditional Thai dishes in a casual setting. Their extensive menu covers a range of regional specialties, making sure that there is something for everyone. The menu includes classics like Pad Thai, Green Curry, Satay, Som Tam, and Tom Yum Goong. Don’t miss their amazing Massaman Beef Curry served with pan-fried roti. The curry has a perfect harmony of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors; it is definitely a must-try.
Khao Kluk Kapi (shrimp paste fried rice). Taling Pling Facebook.
8. Ongtong Khaosoi
At Ongtong, the star of the menu is their signature Khao Soi served with tender chicken or beef, crispy fried noodles on top, and a side of pickled mustard greens, lime, and onions. Khao Soi, a traditional northern Thai noodle dish, consists of egg noodles served in a mildly spiced (chili, turmeric, coriander, and cumin) coconut milk-based curry. Aside from Khao Soi, Ongtong also offers other northern specialties like Sai Oua (spicy northern sausage) and Nam Prik Noom (green chili dip), giving diners an authentic northern Thai experience in the heart of Bangkok.
“Khao Soi” an authentic northern Thai dish. Ongtong Khaosoi Facebook.
9. Naam 1608
Situated along the Chao Phraya River, Naam 1608 offers an unforgettable dining experience that perfectly blends Thai heritage with modern culinary flair. Signature dishes include grilled river prawns (weekend only), Tom Yum Goong (spicy and shrimp soup), and fried chicken wings.
Real Thai food with a modern touch. Naam 1608 Facebook.
The restaurant is housed in a charming colonial-style building that dates back to the early 1900s and the outdoor seating areas provide beautiful views of the river.
Riverside view in the afternoon. Naam 1608 Facebook.
10. Savoey
Savoey has been Bangkok’s beloved restaurant for over 50 years. Their stir-fried crab in yellow curry sauce is rich, creamy, aromatic, slightly sweet, and perfectly spiced. A must-try for every food lover. Another favorite is steamed seabass with lime and chili, a fragrant dish that balances the perfect amount of heat and zest.
Stir-fried crab in yellow curry sauce. Savoey Facebook.
With multiple locations across the city, visit the Tha Maharaj branch for an amazing riverside view. Enjoy a relaxed yet refined dining experience that attracts both locals and tourists alike.
The dining area at Tha Maharaj Pier. Savoey Facebook.