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 delectable 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 exploration, uncovering hidden gems, local hotspots, and the healing touch of Thai massage.

Day 1: Nineteens and Up Bar / Beer Belly

Ease into your Bangkok journey with a visit to Nine Teens and Up Bar or Beer Belly. Sip on refreshing drinks as you soak in the ambiance.

Day 2: Hainanese Chicken Rice at Hai Num Nang

Morning: Kickstart your day with a Thai take on Hainanese Chicken Rice at Hai Num Nang. Let the flavours of this classic dish captivate your palate.

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

Day 3: Sunset Delights at The Eagles Nest Bar

Morning: Visit Bangkok's historic charm with a tour of the Old Bangkok area. 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)!

Afternoon: Toast to 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 treats 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 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!

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 the local cafe Doyle’s for a refreshing rural farm to table drink and snack.

Afternoon: Explore the city's China Town, capturing its essence through its bustling markets and colourful neighbourhoods. - Look out for a Duck Noodle streetfood stall beside 7-Eleven!

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

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

Afternoon: Embark on a journey through Bangkok's vibrant night markets. Explore Asiatique: The Riverfront, a fusion of shopping, dining, and entertainment along the Chao Phraya River or enjoy the atmosphere of Rot Fai Market Ratchada. Discover unique vintage finds, delectable street food, and artistic creations.

Day 7: Icon Siam - A Culinary Wonderland

Morning: Delve into the intriguing world of Chatuchak Animal Market, a bustling marketplace offering an array of pets, plants, clothing and more.

Afternoon: Explore the traditional Thai street food market on the ground floor of Icon Siam, where an array of street foods beckon. Have a look in the mall’s Thai boutiques to bring something special home. We recommend venturing into the Japanese food section too for delicious matcha treats - try Toku desserts (the matchanana is a personal favourite)!

Day 8: Cultural Insights, and Thai Massage

Morning: Embark on a serene Chao Phraya River tour, capturing panoramic views of Bangkok's iconic landmarks and revisit Bangkok’s Old Town to learn more about the history and end your morning with another Thai massage at a temple - Wat Pho - for an extra meditative experience.

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. followed by admiring the cityscape from Kimpton MaLai Rooftop Bar while 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: Followed by an experience of Bangkok's nightlife at Kim's Bar on Khao San Road. An authentic atmosphere and reasonable prices await.

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

  • The hidden milkbar

  • Sarnies (becomes a bar at night)

  • Bars:

  • Regular Space

  • Siwilai Sound Club

  • Shades of Retro

  • Rimshot bar (they have a live drummer)

  • Heave you Heard? Records

  • Cai Young

  • Food:

  • Charoen 43 Art & Eatery

  • Kheng Rongtiem BKK

  • Wan Dee

Aoife Lamont