5 Street Foods You Must Try in Bangkok’s Chinatown
Bangkok's Chinatown, or Yaowarat, is a bustling hub of culture and cuisine, where the tantalizing aromas of street food fill the air. Whatever your purpose in Chinatown, there are five must-try street foods that capture the heart of Bangkok’s culinary scene. From exotic crocodile skewers to the comforting flavours of duck noodle soup, here’s a guide to some of the best street food in Chinatown Bangkok.
1. Crocodile Skewers: A Taste of Adventure
For a truly unique experience, crocodile skewers are a street food you won’t want to miss. This exotic delicacy is skewered, grilled, and seasoned with a blend of Thai spices. Crocodile meat is similar in texture to chicken, yet with a subtle fish-like quality that makes it stand out. Served hot off the grill, it’s often paired with a dipping sauce that enhances the smoky and savoury notes.
2. Duck Noodle Soup: A Rich, Flavourful Delight
Duck noodle soup (Kuay Tiew Ped) is a comforting dish comprising tender, slow-cooked duck, paired with a flavourful, fragrant broth made with star anise, cinnamon, and other spices, which infuses the soup with a deep, savory taste. Served over either egg noodles or rice noodles, this dish is a perfect combination of textures, with the duck skin adding a crispy crunch.
3. Durian: The King of Fruits
Durian is a highly divisive fruit thanks to its a strong smell that either delights or repels, but once you get past the scent, you’ll discover a creamy, custard-like texture and a uniquely sweet flavour. Durian has a rich, almost savoury sweetness, making it unlike any other fruit in the world. I think the most accurate comparison is a mix between a mango and an avocado.
4. Mango Sticky Rice: A Sweet Thai Classic
No visit to Chinatown is complete without tasting mango sticky rice. This traditional Thai dessert combines sweet coconut sticky rice with ripe, juicy mango slices, alongside crunchy nutty corn nibs, offering a refreshing balance of flavours. Its simplicity and the fresh flavors make it a universally loved treat.
5. Roti: Crispy, Sweet, and Irresistible
If you have a sweet tooth, roti is a must-try street food. These thin, crispy flatbreads are cooked on a hot griddle until golden, and they’re then filled with a variety of sweet fillings. Condensed milk, egg and banana are common additions, but you can also try Nutella and biscoff spread. Roti is often served piping hot, with the crispy, chewy texture creating a satisfying bite.
These street foods represent just a small sample of the diverse and flavourful dishes you can discover in this vibrant part of the city. You’ll always leave wanting more.
