As a self-proclaimed foodie with a backpack always ready for the next adventure, Bangkok has been my culinary playground for years. This vibrant city, with its chaotic charm and endless food options, never fails to surprise me. Among its diverse dining scene, Chinese cuisine holds a special place, thanks to Bangkok’s large Thai-Chinese community and its rich history of immigration from southern China. From Michelin-starred fine dining to hole-in-the-wall noodle shops, I’ve eaten my way through Bangkok’s Chinese restaurants, and I’m excited to share my top picks with you. Grab a cup of tea, and let’s dive into this flavorful journey!
Why Bangkok for Chinese Food?
Before we get to the restaurants, let me set the scene. Bangkok’s Chinatown, centered around Yaowarat Road, is a neon-lit food paradise that feels like a slice of Hong Kong or Guangzhou. The Thai-Chinese population, many of whom trace their roots to Teochew and Cantonese regions, has infused the city with authentic flavors. Walking through Yaowarat at night, with sizzling woks and the aroma of roasted duck wafting through the air, is an experience in itself. But beyond the street food, Bangkok boasts upscale Chinese restaurants in luxury hotels and hidden gems in unassuming shophouses. Whether you’re craving dim sum, Peking duck, or spicy Sichuan noodles, this city has it all.
1. Yu Ting Yuan: A Michelin-Starred Cantonese Gem
My first stop is Yu Ting Yuan at the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, a place that left me speechless—and that’s rare for a chatterbox like me. This Michelin-starred restaurant is a masterpiece of Cantonese cuisine, blending tradition with modern flair. The moment I stepped in, I was struck by the serene ambiance: floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a reflective pool, elegant Chinese décor, and a calming vibe that made me forget I was in bustling Bangkok.
The Peking duck here is the stuff of dreams. Watching the chef expertly carve the glossy, crispy-skinned duck tableside felt like a performance. The skin, served with thin pancakes, cucumber, and hoisin sauce, was so delicate it melted in my mouth. The meat, tender and juicy, was used in a second course of stir-fried duck with black pepper—genius! The dim sum, available only at lunch, was equally impressive. The shrimp har gow had a translucent wrapper that burst with fresh, plump shrimp, and the molten lava buns oozed with creamy custard. The service, led by staff like Ms. Ai (who remembered my preference for jasmine tea!), was warm and impeccable.
Price: Expect to spend around THB 2,500-3,500 per person for a full meal.
Tip: Book in advance, especially for dinner, and try the chef’s tasting menu for a curated experience.
2. Potong: A Thai-Chinese Fine Dining Adventure
Next up is Potong, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Chinatown that’s unlike any Chinese restaurant I’ve ever visited. Run by Chef Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij, Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024, Potong is housed in a century-old Sino-Portuguese shophouse once used by Pam’s family for their herbal medicine business. The setting is magical—vintage fixtures, creaky wooden floors, and a sense of history that makes every bite feel special.
Potong’s 20-course tasting menu is a journey through Thai-Chinese flavors, guided by Pam’s philosophy of balancing salt, acid, spice, texture, and the Maillard reaction. The highlight for me was the 14-day dry-aged duck, roasted for exactly 13 minutes to achieve crispy skin and tender meat. Paired with a tangy sauce, it was pure perfection. Other standout dishes included blackened chicken with Chinese herbs and a dessert that reimagined traditional Thai-Chinese sweets. The experience felt personal, like dining at a friend’s home, especially when Pam herself came out to chat about her family’s legacy.
Price: The “Revolution” menu costs THB 6,300++ per person.
Tip: Arrive early to explore the building, including the SINO Bar and Opium Bar. It’s a splurge, but worth every baht.
3. Mei Jiang: Cantonese Elegance by the River
If you’re looking for a romantic dinner with a view, Mei Jiang at The Peninsula Bangkok is hard to beat. Overlooking the Chao Phraya River, this Michelin-listed restaurant feels like a hidden oasis. The cream-toned décor and large windows create an intimate yet sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion.
The Cantonese menu, crafted by Hong Kong-born chef Jackie Ho, is a love letter to classic flavors. The dim sum platter was a highlight, with delicate shrimp dumplings and fluffy char siu bao that tasted like comfort food elevated to art. I also couldn’t resist the roasted Peking duck, which rivaled Yu Ting Yuan’s with its crispy skin and rich meat. The “Health” set menu, featuring dishes like bird’s nest soup, was a unique touch that left me feeling nourished and indulgent at the same time. The staff were attentive but never intrusive, making the evening feel effortless.
Price: Around THB 1,500-2,500 per person.
Tip: Opt for a riverside table and visit during Chinese New Year for their special set menus.
4. Hong Bao: Dim Sum Heaven
For a more casual yet equally delicious experience, Hong Bao is my go-to for dim sum. With multiple locations across Bangkok, including one in EmQuartier, this restaurant is always packed with locals—a sure sign of quality. The bright, modern dining room buzzes with energy, and the menu is a dim sum lover’s dream.
I started with the classic shrimp har gow and siu mai, both perfectly steamed and bursting with flavor. The crispy prawn cheung fun, wrapped in silky rice noodles, was a revelation, and the molten lava buns were so good I ordered a second round. Hong Bao also does Peking duck well, with thin, crispy skin and fluffy pancakes. What I love most is the consistency—every visit delivers the same high quality. The prices are reasonable for the quality, making it a great spot for a group lunch.
Price: Around THB 800-1,200 per person.
Tip: Go for the all-day dim sum menu and arrive early to avoid the lunch rush.
5. Prachak: Old-School Roast Duck Bliss
No Chinese food journey in Bangkok is complete without a visit to Prachak, a century-old shophouse on Charoenkrung Road that’s a legend among locals. This no-frills spot is all about roasted duck, and it’s the kind of place where you squeeze into a shared table and let the food do the talking.
The khao naa ped (rice topped with roast duck) is the star. The duck is tender, with a glossy skin that’s just the right amount of crispy. The gravy, infused with lemongrass and ginger, ties it all together, and a side of boiled Chinese cabbage adds freshness. I also tried the che po rice, loaded with roasted duck, char siu pork, and Chinese sausage—a carnivore’s delight. The vibe is chaotic but charming, with steam billowing from the kitchen and waiters shouting orders. It’s not fancy, but it’s authentic and unforgettable.
Price: Around THB 100-300 per person.
Tip: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds, and bring cash.
6. Hong Teong Long: Xiao Long Bao Perfection
Tucked away in Chinatown, Hong Teong Long (also known as Khom Daeng) is a late-night haven for dumpling lovers. This hole-in-the-wall stays open until 4 a.m., making it perfect for post-party cravings. The star here is the sheng jian bao, a pan-fried version of xiao long bao with a crispy bottom and a juicy, broth-filled center. Waiting 45 minutes for these dumplings was torture, but the first bite made it worth it.
The menu also features Cantonese classics like stir-fried noodles and wonton soup, all made with care. The setting is no-frills—think plastic stools and a wrinkled menu—but the food is the real deal. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a local secret.
Price: Around THB 200-500 per person.
Tip: Be patient with the wait for sheng jian bao, and pair them with a cold chrysanthemum tea.
Final Thoughts
Bangkok’s Chinese restaurants are a testament to the city’s diversity and culinary prowess. Whether you’re splurging at Yu Ting Yuan or slurping noodles at Prachak, each spot offers a unique glimpse into Thai-Chinese culture. My advice? Come hungry, explore beyond the tourist traps, and don’t be afraid to try something new. Bangkok’s food scene is ever-evolving, and I can’t wait to return for my next bite. Have you been to any of these spots, or do you have a favorite Chinese restaurant in Bangkok? Let me know—I’m always on the hunt for my next food adventure!
