Pad thai, pad see ew, pad ki mao (drunken noodles)—these are some of the popular street food dishes that come to mind when you think of Thailand. But that's not where it stops. Another favourite that the locals especially love is the boat noodles or, as it is locally known, guay view rua.
Now, if you are thinking it would taste more or less the same because it is "just another noodle dish" made using the same spices and herbs, the dish puts up a flavourful surprise. The two major ingredients that give boat noodles that extra oomph are pig or cow blood and dark soy sauce. They are also the reason why the broth sports a deep, dark colour—a departure from the usual vibrant red-coloured broth. Balancing the saltiness of the two ingredients is the generous addition of meat, bean sprouts, spices, fresh herbs, rice noodles and a garnish of pork crackling and basil.
It is always interesting when a dish has a unique origin story. Luckily, this Thai dish checks that off the list as well. As per the local lore, the dish was brought by Chinese merchants in the Ayutthaya era and became quickly enmeshed into the local cuisine in the Rangsit region, where it was sold along the canals and off a boat—the main reason behind its name and small serving size.
Now a regular favourite, the dish is consumed widely and there are multiple spots around the city the locals vouch to have had the best boat noodles at. If you are on the hunt for one, here's where to go looking for it:
If the bright red name board won't catch your attention, then the beeline that forms outside this small shop totally will. Located on Samsen Road, the shop is loved by the locals and is known for one of the best servings of boat noodles around town. The broth is not too thick, is perfectly flavoured, and toppings are generous.
Address: 573/10 Samsen Road, Wachira Phayaban, Dusit, Bangkok
While boat noodles is a popular kerbside affair, Thongsmith gives it a premium touch with quality ingredients that are internationally sourced. If you are a meat-lover, Thongsmith spoils you with the choicest of cuts, from wagyu to kurobuta pork. The flavourful broth is equally indulgent as a result of being simmered over hours.
Address: 5 Phloen Chit Rd, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
When you can spot more locals than tourists at a food joint, you know you have come to the right spot. Na Choo Boat Noodles is one such place. Set up over 50 years ago, this small, family-run joint fills up with a dedicated local crowd every afternoon, from students to workers to office go-ers. What makes them return, you ask? the unapologetically spicy broth, soft noodles, generous portion size, and melt-in-the-mouth meat, all under THB 40.
Address: Phaya Thai, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
Another old-school spot, this no-frills joint has been around for over forty years. Locals continue to love it for their traditional flavour and the original taste. The review it most widely gets is that "the boat noodles still taste the same as they did forty years ago." The meat is tender, the soup is aromatic and the toppings are plenty, and it all costs just THB 25.
Address: 573/10 Samsen Rd, Wachira Phayaban, Dusit District, Bangkok 10300, Thailand