Amulet Market by Wat Mahathat

Along the riverside near Sanam Luang and Thammasat University, the amulet market that clusters around Wat Mahathat has been feeding monks, students, traders and pilgrims since Bangkok was established as the capital in 1782. The vendors here cook for a non-tourist audience — prices are extraordinarily low and the food is authentic Thai home cooking at its most fundamental.

Look for khao tom (rice porridge), yen ta fo (pink noodle soup with fishballs), simple stir-fries served over rice, and the famous Chiang Mai sausage vendors. The surrounding area near Sanam Luang also hosts a dense cluster of evening food vendors as the sun sets over the Grand Palace. Combine with a morning visit to Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace to maximize the trip.