In Bangkok, food is what unites locals and brings them exploring new places just for a taste of something amazing. Bang Rak is one of the capital’s most famous food hubs. On a small stretch of Charoenkrung Road from Saphan Taksin to Silom Road, several local dining institutions have made their mark for many years. Some, such as Prachak, have existed for over a century, which is a testament to how delicious their recipes are. The locals have a saying: “If your dishes aren’t delectable, you won’t survive.” With the area’s new reputation as Creative District, new generation restauranteurs are coming with their own cuisines and ideas. Soi Charoenkrung 44 has become a hotspot for these newcomers.
Soi Charoenkrung 44 is a small street lined on both sides by shophouses. Some of these new restaurants have moved in and renovated them. Some have chosen to preserve the old design to retain a sense of heritage while others have put in more contemporary features to create a sleeker look.
Starting at the soi’s western end next to Shangri-La Hotel, Bangkok, go into a preserved shophouse originally for fixing boats and get excellent western breakfast and coffee at Sarnies Bangkok. Move along a little and see the bright new space of Casa Sapparod, where almost every dish is pineapple-inspired. On the northern side of the street, see The Shrimp where you can get your shrimp and crab fix with delicious Thai seafood dipping sauce. In the middle of the street is an alleyway that leads to Bang Rak Market, where a small group of street vendors set up shop early morning to serve street breakfast foods. Further down, step into Baan Phad Thai for one of the country’s more renowned dish. The specialization only in phad thai ensures quality. Opposite is Homu, your stop for Japanese confections to be dined in a small, ancient, yet cozy shophouse. Finally at the eastern end of the soi joining Charoenkrung Road, stop at the legendary Boon Sap to buy your Thai deserts to take home.
