A 10-Day Gastronomic Journey Through Bangkok

Written By Aoife Lamont

Welcome to a gastronomic journey that transcends taste and immerses you in the vibrant culture of Bangkok. Get ready to savour a diverse array of dishes, experience the city's most iconic landmarks, and rejuvenate your body and soul with traditional Thai massage. This 10-day itinerary will take you on a flavourful trip, uncovering hidden gems, local hotspots, and the ever changing food scene of Bangkok.

Day 1: Nineteens and Up Bar / Beer Belly

Ease into your Bangkok journey with a visit to Beer Belly. Sip on refreshing drinks as you soak in the local ambiance.

Day 2: Hainanese Chicken Rice at Hai Num Nang

Morning: Kick-start your day with a Thai take on Hainanese Chicken Rice at Hai Num Nang. Walk around Talat Noi and Songwat Road, stopping for coffee at the various different shops, some of our favourites were Songwat Road Coffee Roasters and Ceremoniale Matcha Atelier.

Afternoon: End your day with a culinary adventure at The Commons. This trendy space hosts a variety of dining options, from Korean kimchi to gourmet burgers and Chinese dumplings.

Day 3: Sunset Delights at The Eagles Nest Bar

Morning: Embark on a Chao Phraya River tour, capturing panoramic views of Bangkok's iconic landmarks. Get off near the Grand Palace to explore the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, absorbing the city's cultural heritage. Make sure to come respectfully dressed - cover your shoulders and knees (it is hot so make sure to wear loose clothing)! The Flower Market is also only a short walk away!

Afternoon: After lunch at SomTum Der, take in the breathtaking view of a temple from The Eagles Nest, a bar that offers a serene ambiance and a stunning backdrop (make sure to enter the hotel and walk all the way up to the top, it is there I promise)!

Day 4: Bangkok's Culinary Exploration Continues

Morning: Begin your day by indulging with a treat at Heiji Bangkok Cafe, which was listed in Asia’s top 80 cafes! For lunch go to the nearby Wua Tong Pochana, a Taiwanese restaurant known for its exquisite beef noodles and delectable dumplings.

Afternoon: After a satisfying meal, explore nearby attractions like River City, ATT 19 and Warehouse 30. Immerse yourself in antiques and arts, discovering treasures that reflect Bangkok's vibrant creativity. Finish your day with a meal at Feng Zhu.

The Charoen Khrung area has plenty of local live music bars, speakeasies and cafes. This is still one of the few spots of the city that remains tourist-free! The Warehouse at Talat Noi is a great spot to visit and shouldn’t be missed! Make sure to make a pit stop at 32 X bar and Vanich House.

Day 5: Central World Mall and Thai Fashion Exploration

Morning: Discover the Central World and Paragon Mall areas, a hub of international and local shops and style. Explore the malls’ expansive selection of Thai and international fashion brands. Immerse yourself in the latest Thai fashion trends, a fusion of tradition and contemporary flair. Try Thai tea at Khiri Tea, inside the mall, for a refreshing traditional drink.

Afternoon: Explore the city's China Town, filled with bustling markets and colourful neighbourhoods - look out for a Duck Noodle street food stall beside 7-Eleven!

Day 6: Savouring Thai Delights and Bangkok’s Night Markets

Morning: For lunch embrace the Thai spirit of sharing by indulging in a variety of Thai dishes at Rot Rue Dee Thai Restaurant.

Afternoon: Then take a journey through Bangkok's best night market. Rot Fai Market Ratchada - Srinagarindra Night Train Market. Discover unique vintage finds, street food, and artistic creations.

Day 7: Icon Siam - A Culinary Wonderland

Morning: Delve into the world of Chatuchak Weekend Market, a bustling marketplace offering an array of pets, plants, clothing and more. Head over to the Red Building for some more vintage shopping!

Afternoon: Explore the traditional Thai street food market on the ground floor of Icon Siam, where an array of street food stalls serve cuisine from all over the country. We recommend venturing into the Japanese food section too for delicious matcha treats - try Toku desserts (the matchanana is a personal favourite)! End the day at TEP bar for some traditional Thai food accompanied by Thai music - be sure to get there before 20:00 so you don’t miss it!

Day 8: Cultural Insights, and Thai Massage

Morning: Head to Bang Krachao - otherwise known as the Green Lungs of Bangkok. You’ll need to take a boat to get there and we would recommend hiring bicycles once there to explore the nature, as no cars are allowed. Stop off at Hidden Woods for a break and a refreshing drink.

Afternoon: Savour the best of Thai cuisine with a visit to Baan Klang Nam, a riverside Thai restaurant that showcases the country's culinary heritage. The giant river prawns are not to be missed! Then head to the Kimpton MaLai Rooftop Bar for panoramic city views whilst enjoying handcrafted cocktails.

Day 9: Nightlife Gems, Culinary Delights, and Cultural Reflections

Morning: Treat yourself to an authentic Thai massage to relax and rejuvenate your body, a true Thai tradition. Followed by a visit to Lumpini Park to meet the famous residents - Monitor Lizards!

Afternoon: Head over to Silom and Sathorn area for cafe hopping and end up at Mod Kaew wine bar for some live music and great wine.

Day 10: Relaxation before jetting home

Have another Thai massage before jetting back home, allowing yourself some time to reflect on all the experiences of the past ten days.

See you next time Bangkok!

Additional top tips:

Cafes:

  • La Cabra

  • REN

  • After You

  • Grow Studio

  • Ballad

  • The Cornerhouse Bangkok

  • Sarnies (becomes a bar at night)

  • Bars:

  • Regular Space

  • Siwilai Sound Club

  • Shades of Retro

  • Have you Heard? Records

  • Cai Young

  • Buddha and Pals

  • Bangkok Mojo Music Lovers Bar

  • Food:

  • Charoen 43 Art & Eatery

  • Kheng Rongtiem BKK

  • Wan Dee

  • Araksa Tea Room

  • Charmkrung

  • Charm Eatery

  • Hit The Road

Aoife Lamont