Yaowarat, also known as Bangkok's Chinatown, is a vibrant neighborhood located in the heart of Bangkok. It is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the world, with a history dating back over 200 years. The neighborhood is known for its bustling street markets, colorful Chinese temples, and delicious food. Yaowarat is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, especially during Chinese New Year, when the streets are decorated with lanterns and dragon dances fill the air. Despite its name, Yaowarat is more than just a Chinatown, it is a melting pot of cultures, with Thai, Chinese, and Indian influences evident in its architecture, food, and traditions.

Here are the top five restaurants and eateries to try when visiting Bangkok's Chinatown:

1. T&K Seafood

T&K Seafood is a must-visit restaurant in Chinatown. The restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly the grilled squid and crab curry. The restaurant is always packed, but the wait is worth it for the delicious food and lively atmosphere. The restaurant is located in a narrow alley off Yaowarat Road, and its bright lights and crowds make it impossible to miss. 200-300 THB ($6.30-$9.40 USD) per dish.

Our recommendation: BBQ Squid and Crab fried rice

Address: 49-51 Soi Phadung Dao, Yaowarat Rd, Khwaeng Samphanthawong, Khet Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand.

Open daily from 4:30 PM to 2:00 AM.

2. Nai Ek Roll Noodle

This small restaurant has been serving delicious roll noodles for over 60 years. The restaurant's specialty is its homemade noodles, which are served in a savory broth with pork, fish balls, and crispy wontons. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. The restaurant is located in a small alley near the entrance of Chinatown and is always busy with locals and tourists alike. 50-70 THB ($1.50-$2.20 USD).

Our recommendation: The Crispy pork belly with roll noodles

Address: Nai Ek Roll Noodle: 494, Yaowarat Rd, Khwaeng Samphanthawong, Khet Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand.

Open daily from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

3. Jek Pui Curry Rice

Jek Pui Curry Rice is a tiny restaurant that serves a popular Thai-Chinese dish called khao gaeng (curry rice). The restaurant's specialty is the pork leg stew, which is cooked until it's tender and served with a flavorful curry sauce. The dish is affordable, filling, and satisfying, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists. 40-60 THB ($1.20-$1.90 USD).

Our recommendation: Yellow curry rice with added Chinese sausage

Address: Jek Pui Curry Rice: 1391 Charoen Krung Rd, Khwaeng Silom, Khet Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand.

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

4. Hua Seng Hong

Hua Seng Hong is a century-old restaurant that's famous for its wonton noodle soup. The soup is made with a clear broth that's simmered for hours, and the wontons are stuffed with pork and shrimp. The restaurant also serves delicious dim sum and other Chinese dishes. The restaurant's bright neon sign is hard to miss and its interior is decorated with antique Chinese artifacts. 70-100 THB ($2.20-$3.10 USD).

Our recommendation: Seabass in soy sauce

Address: Hua Seng Hong: 371-373 Yaowarat Rd, Khwaeng Samphanthawong, Khet Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100, Thailand.

Open daily from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM.

5. Thip Samai Pad Thai

Thip Samai Pad Thai is a legendary restaurant that's been serving some of the best pad Thai in Bangkok for over 50 years. The restaurant's specialty is the pad Thai wrapped in an egg omelet, which is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The restaurant is located on Maha Chai Road, and it is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. 70-120 THB ($2.20-$3.80 USD).

Our recommendation: Just the classic pad Thai

Address: Thip Samai Pad Thai: 313 315 Maha Chai Rd, Khwaeng Samran Rat, Khet Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand.

Open daily from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

Bangkok's Chinatown is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the city's vibrant food culture. With its bustling streets, colorful markets, and incredible array of restaurants and eateries, it's no wonder that Yaowarat is considered one of the best food destinations in the world. From the delicious noodle soups at Nai Ek Roll Noodle to the famous pad Thai at Thip Samai, there's something for everyone in Bangkok's Chinatown. And with prices that won't break the bank, it's easy to indulge in as much food as you can handle.

So, whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, be sure to make a stop at these top 5 restaurants and eateries in Bangkok's Chinatown. Your taste buds will thank you.

5 MUST-EATS at Yaowarat (Chinatown), Bangkok

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