Chinatown, or Yaowarat, is a bustling and lively neighborhood in the heart of Bangkok that is steeped in tradition and culture. This historic area is home to a large Chinese community, and it is renowned for its vibrant street markets, temples, and of course, its delicious street food.
The streets of Chinatown are packed with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to textiles, clothing, and souvenirs. It is a great place to shop and haggle for bargains, as well as to immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals. The area is particularly famous for its gold shops and traditional Chinese medicine stores, which are a testament to the enduring influence of the Chinese community in Bangkok.
Aside from the commercial scene, Chinatown is home to a number of beautiful temples and landmarks that are worth exploring. One of the most popular is Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, a Chinese Buddhist temple that dates back to the 19th century. It is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, and it provides an interesting glimpse into the religious practices and beliefs of the local community.
There are several reasons why travelers should visit Chinatown while traveling in Bangkok:
- Cultural Heritage: Chinatown is one of the oldest and most traditional areas of Bangkok, and it provides a unique insight into the history and culture of the Chinese community in Thailand. Visitors can explore historic temples, shop in traditional markets, and sample authentic Chinese cuisine, all while experiencing the vibrant energy of this fascinating neighborhood.
- Street Food: Chinatown is famous for its street food, which is considered some of the best in Bangkok. Visitors can sample a wide variety of dishes, from steaming bowls of noodles and soups to grilled meats and seafood. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, spicy, or savory, you’re sure to find something to tickle your taste buds in Chinatown.
- Shopping: Chinatown is a shopper’s paradise, with endless markets and stalls selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. The area is particularly famous for its gold shops and traditional Chinese medicine stores, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural traditions and practices of the local community.
- Temples and Landmarks: Chinatown is home to several beautiful temples and landmarks, including Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, which is considered one of the most important Chinese temples in Bangkok. Other notable attractions include the Chinese Opera Museum, the Old Siam Plaza shopping center, and the Pak Khlong Talat flower market.
100 Mahaseth
100 Mahaseth is a popular restaurant and bar located in the Chinatown neighborhood of Bangkok. The restaurant specializes in serving delicious and authentic Thai cuisine, with a particular focus on Northern Thai cuisine.
The interior of 100 Mahaseth is modern and stylish, with an industrial-chic vibe that is popular with locals and tourists alike. The space is split into several different areas, including a bar area, an outdoor terrace, and a main dining room.
The menu at 100 Mahaseth is inspired by traditional Northern Thai cuisine, with a focus on bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Some of the signature dishes include nam prik noom (roasted green chili dip), sai oua (Northern Thai sausage), and khao soi (a curry noodle soup).
In addition to the food, 100 Mahaseth is also known for its extensive selection of craft beers and cocktails. The bar offers a variety of locally brewed beers, as well as a selection of classic and contemporary cocktails.
Ba Hao
Ba Hao is a stylish bar and restaurant located in the heart of Chinatown, Bangkok. This trendy venue is known for its creative cocktails, delicious food, and stylish decor, making it a popular spot for both locals and travelers alike.
The interior of Ba Hao is modern and sophisticated, with sleek wooden furniture, colorful murals, and contemporary lighting fixtures. The bar area is particularly impressive, with a long marble countertop and shelves lined with an extensive collection of spirits and liqueurs.
The cocktail menu at Ba Hao is the highlight of the experience, with a wide range of creative and unique drinks that incorporate local ingredients and flavors. Some of the must-try cocktails include the Pandan Colada, which is made with rum, coconut, and pandan leaf, and the Dragonfly, which features gin, dragonfruit, and Thai basil.
In addition to the cocktails, Ba Hao also serves a variety of delicious food that fuses Chinese and Western flavors. The menu includes dishes like bao sliders, fried chicken wings with chili sauce, and char siu pork belly with bok choy.
Warehouse 30
Warehouse 30 is a creative space located in the heart of Bangkok’s historic Chinatown neighborhood. The space was originally built in the 1940s as a warehouse for a government tobacco company, and it has since been transformed into a vibrant community hub that celebrates creativity, culture, and craftsmanship.
Today, Warehouse 30 is home to a wide variety of shops, galleries, cafes, and event spaces that showcase the best of local art, design, and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the many boutiques and studios, which sell everything from handmade ceramics and jewelry to unique clothing and accessories.
In addition to the shops and galleries, Warehouse 30 also hosts a variety of events and workshops throughout the year, including art exhibitions, craft markets, and music performances. These events provide a great opportunity to connect with local artists and designers, and to experience the creative energy and innovation that is driving Bangkok’s cultural scene.
The architecture of Warehouse 30 is also noteworthy, with its sleek, modern design seamlessly integrated into the historic structure of the original warehouse. The building has been carefully renovated and restored, with many of the original features preserved, such as the exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and industrial-style windows.
Jua
Jua is a trendy and stylish bar and restaurant located in the heart of Chinatown in Bangkok. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, and it is known for its creative cocktails, modern Thai cuisine, and laid-back atmosphere.
The interior of Jua is sleek and minimalist, with a cozy and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening. The bar is the centerpiece of the space, with a wide selection of premium spirits, local and imported beers, and an extensive wine list. The bartenders are skilled and knowledgeable, and they are happy to recommend drinks based on your preferences.
The restaurant at Jua offers a unique twist on traditional Thai cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors. The menu features a range of small plates and sharing dishes, as well as larger mains, all of which are designed to be shared and enjoyed with friends. Some of the most popular dishes include the crispy pork belly, the green curry with chicken, and the grilled beef short ribs.
Aside from the food and drinks, Jua is also known for its lively and welcoming atmosphere. The bar and restaurant are popular with a young, hip crowd, and it’s not uncommon for the space to be buzzing with conversation and laughter well into the night.
Someday Everyday
Someday Everyday is a trendy and popular café located in the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown neighborhood. The café is known for its unique blend of traditional and modern design elements, creating a stylish and comfortable space for visitors to relax and unwind.
The interior of Someday Everyday is a mix of exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and vintage décor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The café is furnished with comfortable seating, including plush sofas and cozy armchairs, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while taking a break from exploring the neighborhood.
Someday Everyday is also renowned for its menu, which features a range of creative and delicious drinks and dishes. The café serves a variety of coffee and tea beverages, including cold brews, matcha lattes, and herbal teas. In addition, the menu includes a selection of sweet and savory dishes, such as pancakes, avocado toast, and pastries, which are perfect for breakfast or brunch.
One of the unique features of Someday Everyday is its rooftop garden, which offers a stunning view of the surrounding neighborhood. The garden is filled with plants and greenery, providing a peaceful and relaxing oasis in the middle of bustling Chinatown.
Nay Hong
Kuay Teow Kua Gai Nai Hong is a popular street food stall located in the heart of Chinatown in Bangkok. This local eatery is known for its delicious kuay teow kua gai, a stir-fried noodle dish that is made with chicken, egg, and fresh herbs.
The dish is made by stir-frying wide rice noodles with sliced chicken, egg, and vegetables, such as Chinese kale and bean sprouts. The noodles are flavored with a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and garlic, which gives them a delicious umami flavor.
Kuay Teow Kua Gai Nai Hong is particularly famous for its crispy bits of chicken skin, which are added to the dish for an extra crunch. The dish is served piping hot and garnished with fresh coriander, sliced chili, and a squeeze of lime.
This street food stall has been a favorite of locals and tourists alike for many years, and it is considered one of the best places to try kuay teow kua gai in Bangkok. The stall is open daily from late afternoon until late at night, and it’s a great place to grab a quick and tasty bite to eat while exploring the vibrant streets of Chinatown.
Tep Bar
Tep Bar is a popular cocktail bar located in the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown neighborhood. This cozy and intimate bar is housed in a beautifully restored shophouse, and it provides a unique and immersive experience for anyone looking to explore the local culture and traditions of Thailand.
The bar’s name, “Tep,” means “the fermentation process” in Thai, and this is reflected in the bar’s focus on using local and seasonal ingredients in their cocktails. The menu features a wide range of creative and inventive cocktails, all of which are expertly crafted using homemade bitters, syrups, and infusions. The bartenders at Tep Bar are highly skilled and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to recommend a drink based on your personal taste preferences.
In addition to the impressive cocktail menu, Tep Bar also offers a selection of local craft beers, as well as a small but well-curated wine list. The bar’s cozy and intimate setting, complete with vintage furnishings and dim lighting, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic date.