Savour Tradition at These Culinary Stops in Bangkok’s Historic Old Town

Bangkok is a city rich in history, and Rattanakosin, or Old Town, stands as a testament to this. Within Old Town are temples and tourist spots that attract visitors all year round, along with a culinary landscape waiting to be explored.

From established riverside restaurants to trendy cafes, you're guaranteed to find a place where you can sample the distinct flavours of Thai cuisine. Each establishment has its own set of specialties, and if you're open to embarking on a gastronomic adventure, your palate will be challenged in a good way.

Be captivated by Old Town's charm and get ready to immerse yourself in its rich heritage one bite at a time.

The Deck by the River

Located along the Chao Phraya River, Arun Residence is a four-star hotel that offers comfortable accommodation coupled with unparalleled views of the Wat Arun Temple. Now, imagine dining with the same view – wouldn’t that be a treat?

The Deck by the River is the hotel’s famous Asian Fusion Restaurant serving classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yam Koong Mae Naam, and Kang Keaw Whan Koong. If you’re not up for a heavy meal, the drinks are certified must-tries, too! Take your pick among the available drinks, mocktails, and special cocktails for a fitting nightcap.

Location: The Deck by the River, 36-38 Pratu Nokyung Alley, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

Seven Spoons

Taking pride as a destination restaurant, Seven Spoons promises to deliver “simple, sumptuous, and Bangkok dining with an edge.” Seven Spoons is found in a restored Chinese shophouse so expect a cosy vibe when you visit and prepare to be enchanted by the interiors.

Known for its modern cuisine, including a plethora of Mediterranean-influenced dishes and kinds of pasta, the restaurant serves appetizing lunch and dinner menus. Some of the items available for lunch include sandwiches, tartines, wraps, and a couple of vegetarian options. For dinner, you can also sample the Bacon-Wrapped Pork Filet or the Filet Mignon with Melted Gorgonzola Cheese and Lingonberry Sauce for a hearty meal.

Location: Seven Spoons, 22-24 Thanon Chakkraphatdi Phong, Wat Sommanat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok

Sala Rattanakosin Eatery and Bar

Sala Rattanakosin Eatery and Bar is an award-winning riverfront restaurant that serves Western dishes and Thai favourites. Whether you’re visiting for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks, you’ll be treated to a filling meal you’d love to come back to.

For breakfast, you can choose between a Full English or a Chao Phraya Breakfast. Meanwhile, for lunch, there are rice and noodle dishes available as well as pasta dishes to choose from. If you’re ready to indulge, the dinner menu highlights delicious appetizers, seafood, and mouthwatering mains.

Location: Sala Rattanakosin Eatery and Bar, 39 Tha Tian Aly, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

Thipsamai Pad Thai

If you love Pad Thai, a visit to Thipsamai is in order! According to the restaurant’s website, the well-loved Thai dish traces its roots Thipsamai where you can relish a unique Pad Thai taste and quality like no other.

Here, you can order Pad Thai depending on your preferences. Aside from the basic version, there’s a vegetarian option, Pad Thai with shrimp oil and egg, and a Pad Thai Song-Krueng, among others.

Location: Thipsamai Pad Thai, 313-315 Mahachai Road, Samranrat, Pranakorn, Bangkok

Krua Khun Kung

Fancy having lunch or dinner with a view? Conveniently located near the Royal Thai Navy Club, Krua Khun Kung is known for its relaxed, casual atmosphere and generous servings of dishes.

Frequent guests suggest going to the restaurant early so you can secure a table by the river. Some of the must-tries include the Spicy Zalacca Salad with Shrimps, Sea Bass in Coconut Soup with Seafood, and the Tom Yum Kung Shrimp in Sour and Spicy Soup.

Location: Krua Khun Kung, 77 Maha Rat Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok

Old Town Café Bangkok

Need a quick break from wandering around Old Town? A quick stop at Old Town Café Bangkok is the best respite. The inviting café serves coffee and filling Asian-style baguette sandwiches that make for a filling afternoon snack or light lunch.

There are also other treats available such as Croissant Sandwiches, Cinnamon Rolls, Iced Teas, and Juices. Craving something sweet? You can also reward yourself with their Brownie Ice Cream.

Location: Old Town Café Bangkok, 130 12 Fueang Nakhon Rd, Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok