As one of Bangkok’s most respected long-standing restaurants, Tonkin Annam is the definitive go-to for an authentic Vietnamese meal. The commitment to tradition here is absolute; the menu is built on recipes passed down through generations of the owner’s family from Vietnam, while essential kitchen staples—like premium fish sauce and potent chilies—are imported directly from there to ensure every flavor profile is exactly as it should be.

Chao Tom (grilled shrimp paste on a sugarcane stick) remains the restaurant’s best-seller, seasoned with a complex blend of herbs that creates a deep aroma. However, our personal favorite is the Banh Beo—wholesome steamed rice cakes topped with dried shrimp, pork floss, and pork crackling. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser and a mandatory order for the table.

To finish, those with a sweet tooth must try Ca Phe Trung. This Hanoi-style egg coffee is prepared with a slow drip and a rich egg yolk foam—a decadent and delightful way to get your caffeine fix.