THONGSMITH BOAT NOODLES
ThongSmith Boat Noodles is a premium boat noodle restaurant in Thailand that has earned a stellar reputation for serving some of the most authentic and flavorful bowls of boat noodles (kuay tiew rua) in Bangkok. This eatery offers a modern and upscale take on a traditional Thai street food classic, making it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists who crave rich, hearty noodle soups in a comfortable setting.
Boat noodles have a long history in Thailand, originally sold by vendors from small boats paddling along the canals, hence the name. The dish is characterized by its rich, flavorful broth, usually made with pork or beef, and its assortment of toppings like meat slices, meatballs, and herbs. ThongSmith takes this iconic dish to the next level by using high-quality ingredients, expert preparation, and meticulous attention to detail, elevating the humble boat noodle experience into something exceptional.
The signature dish at ThongSmith is their beef boat noodles. The broth is incredibly rich and flavorful, simmered for hours with a blend of herbs, spices, and beef bones, creating a deep, aromatic flavor. The noodles are served with tender slices of beef, meatballs, and a mix of fresh herbs, topped with crispy garlic and chili flakes for an extra kick. The beef is cooked to perfection, while the broth has a wonderful depth that makes every spoonful a delight. For pork lovers, pork boat noodles are also offered.
Apart from their signature boat noodles, ThongSmith offers a variety of side dishes and snacks to complement the main meal. Popular choices include crispy pork skin, fried wontons, and fried tofu – all of which add a delightful crunch to your meal and are perfect for dipping into the broth.
Of course we had to try the signature dish at ThongSmith, their beef boat noodles! I would say that he star of the show is undoubtedly the broth. ThongSmith’s beef boat noodle broth is rich, full-bodied, and deeply flavorful, thanks to the hours of slow simmering with beef bones, herbs, spices, and a hint of aromatics. It has a perfectly balanced combination of savory, slightly sweet, and umami flavors, with a subtle hint of herbs that makes each spoonful intensely satisfying. The broth is robust without being overly salty or greasy.
The beef slices are tender, succulent, and cooked to perfection. You can taste the freshness and quality in every bite, and the meat absorbs the flavors of the broth beautifully. Along with the beef slices, the dish also includes flavorful beef meatballs that have a nice, firm texture and a burst of beefy flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
ThongSmith offers a choice of noodles, including thin rice noodles, wide rice noodles, and glass noodles, ensuring that you can customize your bowl to your liking. We chose the glass noodles which were cooked just right – soft yet still slightly chewy.
The dish is garnished with fresh bean sprouts, morning glory, cilantro, and fried garlic, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor. A sprinkle of chili flakes and a dash of vinegar provided on the side allow you to adjust the spice and tanginess to your preference, making each bite dynamic and tailored to your taste.
As for the drinks, we ordered the Roselle Juice and Longan Juice. Roselle Juice is a popular Thai beverage made from the dried calyces of hibiscus flowers. The roselle juice has a vibrant, deep red color and a bold, fruity taste with a hint of sourness. Longan Juice is another classic Thai drink made from the longan fruit, which is often referred to as “dragon’s eye” due to its appearance. It is infused with the natural sweetness of the longan fruit, resulting in a golden-brown drink with a mildly sweet and subtly floral taste, the flavor is smooth and honey-like. Both drinks made a great palate cleanser, cutting through the richness and spice of the boat noodles.
ThongSmith sets itself apart from typical boat noodle stalls by offering a modern, clean, and air-conditioned dining environment. The restaurant’s chic, minimalist design with wooden furnishings and warm lighting creates a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a bowl of noodles in style. The setting is ideal for families, friends, and even solo diners who want to savor boat noodles without the hustle and bustle of street food stalls.
As a premium boat noodle restaurant, ThongSmith is slightly more expensive than the average street vendor, but it offers great value for money considering the quality of the ingredients, generous portion sizes, and comfortable dining experience. Prices are reasonable for the level of flavor and care that goes into each dish, making it worth every baht for noodle enthusiasts.
ThongSmith’s multiple branches across Bangkok make it incredibly convenient to experience their premium boat noodles, no matter where you are in the city. Whether you’re shopping in EmQuartier, exploring the bustling area around CentralWorld, or enjoying the riverside views at Iconsiam, you’re never too far from a delicious bowl of ThongSmith’s rich, flavorful boat noodles.
ThongSmith Boat Noodles is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a premium take on one of Thailand’s most iconic dishes. It offers a perfect blend of authenticity and quality, making it an excellent option for those who want to savor rich, flavorful boat noodles in a relaxed, modern environment. Whether you’re a fan of traditional beef or pork boat noodles or you’re looking to try a more unique version, ThongSmith delivers an unforgettable dining experience that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for this beloved Thai comfort food.
THONGSMITH BOAT NOODLES
Monday – 10:00-22:00
Tuesday – 10:00-22:00
Wednesday – 10:00-22:00
Thursday – 10:00-22:00
Friday – 10:00-22:00
Saturday – 10:00-22:00
Sunday – 10:00-22:00