Where to Find Authentic Thai Basil Chicken in Bangkok

Are you looking to try authentic Thai chicken for the first time? Well, you’re in for a treat. Thai basil chicken, also known as Pad Kra Pao Gai, is a contender for the best-tasting chicken in Bangkok. It’s usually served over fried rice and comes with a crispy egg on the side. While it's not as widely popular as the Thai coconut chicken (Tom Kha Kai), it still draws a massive number of crowds and for good reason: it’s savoury and simple to prepare, making it a perfect one-plate meal for foodies who are always on the go.

But the question of where to find authentic Thai basil chicken remains a mystery. Sure, there are a lot of homegrown restos and food hubs offering this delectable dish. But just because it’s sold in the most populous city of Thailand doesn’t make it authentic. Some of the food spots in Bangkok are just rip-offs of already-established restaurants. The good news? We’ve found a place where you can munch on authentic Thai basil chicken.

Seo Lang, a tiny 45-year-old restaurant tucked away on the busy road of Chakkraphet, is a haven for protein lovers. With a humble and unassuming storefront, one wouldn’t think that this place is home to authentic Thai basil chicken that has fed thousands of people from the beginning of ultranationalism in 1977, until now when Bangkok is already a thriving tourist destination and considered the best city in Southeast Asia.

Despite it being a self-effacing eating house that boasts blue plastic chairs and tables made of stainless steel, its roster of dishes makes up for the lack of lavishness that’s usually part of foodies’ criteria. We’ve yet to confirm if it’s the first Thai basil chicken spot in the city, however, we’re sure it’s one of the pioneers. What better way to chomp on this classic dish than to have it directly at a heavily patronised restaurant such as Seo Lang?

If you’re visiting anytime soon, you can expect to get authentic spicy Thai basil chicken, which is served with white rice and topped with salty fried egg, for an affordable price of THB40. End your hearty, warm meal with a burp-inducing soda for only THB10 (based on 2020 prices).

Seo Lang is open from 6 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and closed on weekends.

How to get there:

• From the Grand Palace: Ride a tuktuk on Sanam Chai Road and tell the driver to drop you off on Chakkraphet Road.
• From the Thon Buri Palace: Rice a tuktuk or a cab on Arun Amarin Road and tell the driver to drop you off on Chakkraphet Road.
• If you’re within the city of Bangkok, you can ride a cab that would take you straight to Seo Lang.

Location: Seo Lang, 227 Chakkraphet Road, Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand