If you’re chasing the heartbeat of Bangkok’s food scene, Soi Convent is where you’ll find it. Tucked in the bustling Silom district, this 800-meter stretch of road is a hidden gem that blends gritty street food stalls with upscale dining, all wrapped in a vibrant, local vibe. As someone who’s wandered this street countless times—grabbing a quick som tam lunch or sipping craft beer at night—I’m here to share why Soi Convent is a must-visit and how to make the most of it. This guide, written from my experiences, will take you through the best eats, tips for navigating the street, and a few quirky finds that make Soi Convent so special. Let’s dig in!
Why Soi Convent?
Soi Convent, or Thanon Convent, is a side street off Silom Road that feels like a microcosm of Bangkok itself. By day, it’s packed with office workers darting between food stalls; by night, it transforms into a lively hub for diners and drinkers. What I love most is its mix of old-school charm and modern flair. You’ve got nuns from St. Joseph’s Convent School at one end, a hospital at the other, and in between, a melting pot of Thai street food, international restaurants, and trendy bars. It’s less touristy than nearby Patpong Night Market but just as lively, making it perfect for travelers who want an authentic Bangkok experience.
It’s also super close to Lumphini Park (just a 5-minute walk), so you can pair a relaxing park visit with a food adventure. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a foodie hunting high-end cuisine, Soi Convent has something for you.
Getting There
Soi Convent is easy to reach, which is a big plus in Bangkok’s chaotic traffic. The closest public transport options are:
- BTS Skytrain (Sala Daeng Station): A 5-minute walk down Silom Road. Exit the station, head toward Patpong, and you’ll see Soi Convent on your left.
- MRT (Silom or Lumphini Stations): Both are about a 7–10-minute walk. I prefer Silom MRT because it’s closer and has a direct path to Soi Convent via Silom Road.
- Grab or Taxi: Just tell the driver “Soi Convent, Silom.” Most know it, but have Google Maps ready to avoid confusion. Expect to pay 50–100 baht from central Bangkok.
- If you’re walking from Lumphini Park, head west along Rama IV Road, turn left onto Silom Road, and look for Soi Convent on your right. The street is well-marked, and the food aromas will guide you.
Best Times to Visit
Soi Convent’s vibe shifts with the time of day, and I’ve learned the best moments to soak it in:
- Morning (8–11 AM): Perfect for breakfast stalls serving patonggo (Thai-style doughnuts) or jok (rice porridge). The street is quieter, and you’ll see locals grabbing quick bites before work. I once had a steaming bowl of jok with century egg for 30 baht—pure comfort food.
- Lunchtime (11 AM–2 PM): The street comes alive with office workers hitting up stalls like Hai Somtam Convent. It’s crowded but electric. Get there early to snag a seat at popular spots.
- Evening (6–10 PM): My favorite time. The street lights up, food carts glow, and bars like Vesper draw a hip crowd. It’s great for dinner or drinks, though some stalls close by 8 PM.
Avoid late afternoons (3–5 PM) as many stalls shut down to prep for dinner, and the heat can be brutal. Bangkok’s humidity is no joke, so bring water and a hat if you’re out midday.
What to Eat on Soi Convent
Soi Convent is a foodie’s dream, offering everything from 30-baht street eats to fine dining. Here’s my rundown of must-try spots based on my many visits, with some insights from recent reviews:
1. Hai Somtam Convent (Isaan Food)
This open-air eatery is a Soi Convent legend, famous for its Northeastern Thai (Isaan) dishes. Their som tam (papaya salad) menu is massive—think 20+ variations, from classic Thai (50 baht) to crab or salted egg (80–180 baht). I’m obsessed with their grilled chicken (120 baht per half) and spicy pork ribs hot pot (95 baht). The food is fresh, fast, and cheap, but some reviews note it can be overly sweet or lacking heat compared to authentic Isaan joints. Still, it’s a crowd-pleaser, especially at lunch when it’s packed with locals and tourists. Tip: Ask for “mai wan” (not sweet) if you prefer less sugar.
- Hours: Mon–Sat, 10 AM–9 PM (closed Sundays)
- Price Range: 50–180 baht
- Location: 2/4-5 Soi Convent, opposite Molly Malone’s
2. Khao So-I Convent Silom (Northern Thai)
If you’re craving khao soi, this spot is a Bangkok gem. Their Northern Thai-style curry noodle soup (chicken, pork, or beef, 100–150 baht) is rich, creamy, and topped with crispy noodles—my go-to is the chicken soup version for its authentic Chiang Mai flavor. They also serve dry versions and sides like fried tofu. The vibe is cozy, with air-conditioned seating and friendly staff. Recent reviews rave about the quality and value, with one diner calling it “the best khao soi in Bangkok”. I’ve taken friends here for date nights, and it never disappoints.
- Hours: Daily, 11 AM–9 PM
- Price Range: 100–200 baht
- Location: 14/2-3 Convent Rd
3. Kao Mok Gai Soi Convent (Street Food)
This humble cart outside Bua restaurant has been serving Thai-style chicken biryani (kao mok gai) for over 20 years. For about 50 baht, you get fragrant yellow rice mixed with tender chicken and a sweet dipping sauce. I stumbled on it during a morning walk, and the aroma hooked me. It’s simple, delicious, and a perfect quick bite. Just note it’s a street stall, so you’ll eat on plastic stools or take it to go.
- Hours: Morning to early afternoon (sells out fast)
- Price Range: 40–60 baht
- Location: Sidewalk near Bua restaurant
4. Indigo (French Cuisine)
For something upscale, Indigo is a French-run bistro in a charming colonial house off Soi Convent. Their menu features classics like duck confit (450 baht), steak tartare (490 baht), and baked escargot (320 baht). I treated myself to their beef Stroganoff once, and it was rich and perfectly executed. The outdoor tables are great for a romantic dinner under soft lights, and the wine list is solid without breaking the bank. Reviews mention it’s a favorite among French expats, though one diner had a bad experience with their Christmas turkey. Next door is a French butcher, Gargantua, if you want to grab premium meats.
- Hours: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Price Range: 300–1,850 baht
- Location: 6 Thanon Convent (look for the alley near Starbucks)
5. Eat Me Restaurant (Fusion)
Tucked down Soi Phiphat 2 off Soi Convent, Eat Me is a Bangkok icon for fusion cuisine. Chef Tim Butler’s menu blends global flavors—think shima aji tartare (575 baht) or flame-charred Japanese abalone (900 baht). I splurged here for a friend’s birthday, and the tom yum Maine lobster (750 baht) was a showstopper. The modern, artsy vibe and creative cocktails make it perfect for a special night out. It’s pricey but worth it for a treat.
- Hours: 3 PM–1 AM
- Price Range: 500–1,500 baht
- Location: Soi Phiphat 2, off Convent Rd
6. Vegetarian Street Stall (Soi Phiphat 2)
For plant-based travelers, there’s a hidden vegetarian stall down Soi Phiphat 2. It’s tricky to find (look for signs near Sam’s Fish and Chips), but the 30–45 baht plates are a steal. I tried their spicy morning glory curry and banana leaf curry—fresh, flavorful, and dirt cheap. The catch? It often sells out by 1 PM, so go early. It’s a no-frills spot, but the friendly vendor makes it welcoming.
- Hours: Morning to early afternoon
- Price Range: 30–45 baht
- Location: Soi Phiphat 2
Other Notable Spots:
- Molly Malone’s (Irish Pub): Great for beer-battered fish and chips (400 baht) and draught beers. Perfect if you need a break from Thai flavors.
- La Dotta: A newer spot for fresh pasta (320–370 baht for lunch sets). Their calamari is a hit, and it’s next to the trendy Vesper bar.
- Patonggo and Fruit Stalls: Morning carts sell Thai doughnuts and fresh pineapple or watermelon for 20–30 baht. Ideal for a quick snack while exploring.
Things to Do Beyond Eating
While food is the star, Soi Convent offers more:Visit St. Joseph’s Convent:
- Peek into the historic chapel (open Sundays) for a quiet moment. The grounds are serene, with old timber buildings.
- Explore Patpong Night Market: A 5-minute walk away, this market is famous for its nightlife and quirky souvenirs. It’s a bit seedy but worth a quick look for the experience.
- Sip Cocktails at Vesper: One of Asia’s top bars, Vesper (next to La Dotta) serves creative cocktails in a sleek setting. I tried their signature martini once—pricey but unforgettable.
- Walk to Lumphini Park: After eating, stroll to the park for a relaxing walk or paddleboat ride. It’s the perfect way to burn off those khao soi calories.
Practical Tips from My Visits
- Bring Cash: Many stalls only take cash, so have small bills (20–100 baht) handy.
- Dress Light: Bangkok’s heat is intense, so wear breathable clothes and comfy shoes. Modest attire is respectful, especially near the convent.
- Watch Your Stuff: Soi Convent is safe, but pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas. I use a crossbody bag to keep things secure.
- Ask for Spice Levels: Some dishes (especially som tam) can be fiery. Say “pet nit noi” (a little spicy) or “mai pet” (not spicy) to customize.
- Check Hours: Street stalls often close early or sell out, so plan around peak times (lunch or early evening).
- Stay Connected: Grab a local SIM card for easy navigation. I use AIS or True for reliable data.
Why I Love Soi Convent
Soi Convent is my go-to when I’m craving Bangkok’s soul without the tourist traps. It’s where I’ve shared spicy som tam with locals, discovered hidden vegetarian gems, and splurged on fusion dishes for special occasions. The street’s mix of chaos and charm—plastic stools next to fine-dining bistros, monks walking past craft beer bars—makes it unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re grabbing a 30-baht biryani or sipping wine at Indigo, you’re in for a treat.If you’re in Bangkok, make time for Soi Convent. It’s a short walk from Lumphini Park, so you can pair it with a park visit for a perfect day. Got a favorite Bangkok food street or dish? Let me know—I’m always up for new spots to try!
