87 Oldtown at River Pier

There are some things in life worth queuing for. Welcome to one of them. Jay Fai has long been a street food icon, and for good reason — the begoggled chef’s signature crispy, golden-brown crab omelettes are wonderful and will remain long in the memory of everyone who’s tried them. If you’re looking for another reason to love the local legend, then also try her stir-fried prawns in yellow curry or one of the many noodle dishes. The queuing system is well organised but arrive knowing you’ll have to spend time standing in line – and bring cash.

This popular old town stand sells legendary braised beef noodles soup; choose from multiple juicy, slow-cooked cuts like cheek, tongue, tendon, shoulder and shank – or go for the mixed beef option. The aromatic and salty broth is what makes this version stand out from the crowd, delivering a wonderful mellow flavour. The meatballs are well worth ordering too, offering a rich, meaty taste and accompanied by more broth.

The tempting scent of sizzling pork greets you at this vibrant restaurant by chef Andy Yang. Their signature dish features nicely char-grilled pork loin slices atop savoury Pad Thai. Another recommendation is the Pad Thai with fresh prawns, stir-fried in their shell for sweet, delicious meat. For top-notch Pad Thai and skilled wok-based cooking at a fair price, this is your spot.

Here is a restaurant made for those special occasions, where the setting and the food are in perfect harmony with one another. This delightful 100-year-old house comes with a secluded rear garden and offers a charming and traditional setting for Chef Thanintorn 'Noom' Chantharawan's take on Thai cuisine inspired by the Rattanakosin period. A dazzling array of flavours accompanies the prime ingredients from across Thailand, in a set menu full of presentational flourishes. A true taste of Thailand in historic surroundings.

This enduring street food stall is renowned for its egg noodles with grilled pork, prepared using an unchanged recipe for over 40 years. The secret lies in marinating pork rump slices for four hours in a mix of soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper before grilling over charcoal. The well-cooked noodles have a soft, sticky texture, served in a flavourful pork bone broth.

Nusara pairs refined cooking with a mesmerising view of Wat Pho, best admired from the softly lit rooftop. Olive-green interiors with gold accents set a quietly elegant tone. The journey begins with welcome bites, before guests descend to the main dining room. Highlights include a stellar Thai Wagyu stir-fry with holy basil and a delicate quartet of regional relishes – each dish telling its own story. One of Bangkok's most intimate Thai dining experiences.

Renowned for Hainanese-style rice noodles, Kolun.h has been serving locals since 1997. The signature dish comes with rich or clear broth, braised pork, radish and crispy pork belly. Don't miss the peppery-flavoured goat meat in an aromatic herb soup. Expect long queues at peak times.