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Thai Tham is a beloved eatery in Bangkok, renowned for its authentic Thai dishes, especially the signature Gao Lao (Pork Brain Soup). The restaurant has been passed down through generations and is cherished by both locals and tourists. The owner, Sudjit Suranan, prepares the stewed pig's brain fresh each morning, ensuring a rich and flavorful experience. The ambiance is traditional, offering a glimpse into Bangkok's culinary heritage.

Discover authentic Thai flavors at Thai Tham pork brain Gao Lao soup in Bangkok's historic Phraeng Phuthon neighborhood.

Nestled in the heart of Bangkok's vibrant Khet Phra Nakhon district, Thai Tham offers an unforgettable culinary journey with its signature pork brain Gao Lao soup. This unique dish, beloved by locals and adventurous foodies alike, boasts a peppery, flavorful broth that is perfectly balanced and not overly oily. Complemented by traditional sides like Chinese liver sausage and fried taro, the menu showcases authentic Thai tastes passed down through generations.

A cozy and historic dining spot with attentive service

Step inside Thai Tham and you'll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere where the friendly chef and staff treat every guest like family. The restaurant has earned city recognition for its longstanding tradition and dedication to quality. Despite its unpretentious setting, each bowl is a testament to authentic preparation and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're sampling pork brain for the first time or returning for a comforting meal, the experience promises to be memorable.

The star of the menu is undoubtedly the stewed pig's brain in the signature Gao Lao soup — a hearty, creamy delight that pairs wonderfully with rice or enjoyed on its own. Other highlights include flavorful pork liver sausage and sides such as radish and fried fish skin, which some diners prefer dipped into the soup to enhance the taste. Portions are generous, making it a satisfying destination for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

Visitors consistently praise Thai Tham for its authentic flavors and the dedication of its staff. The pork brain soup is described as rich and distinct, appealing especially to those seeking a culinary adventure beyond typical pork dishes. While some toppings may be an acquired taste, the overall sentiment is glowing, with many recommending it for a genuine taste of Bangkok’s traditional cuisine.

Frequently asked questions about Thai Tham pork brain Gao Lao soup

What are the operating hours of Thai Tham?

 Thai Tham operates from Monday to Saturday, 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays.

Is Thai Tham accessible by public transportation?

 Yes, Thai Tham is located in the Phraeng Phuthon neighborhood, which is accessible via public transportation. The nearest MRT station is Sam Yot on the Blue Line.

 No, Thai Tham operates on a cash-only basis.

Asia

Thailand

Overview  

Thai Tham Pork Brain Gao Lao Soup is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Bangkok, specifically at 28/1 Phraeng Phuthon Rd. This unassuming eatery is renowned for its unique take on traditional Thai cuisine, offering a culinary experience that is both authentic and unforgettable. The moment you step inside, the warm, inviting atmosphere envelops you, hinting at the rich flavors that await.

This restaurant specializes in a dish called Gao Lao, a comforting soup that features pork brain as its star ingredient. The broth is a delightful blend of spices, peppery yet smooth, creating a rich flavor profile that is both satisfying and intriguing. Diners rave about the creamy texture of the pork brain, which pairs beautifully with the savory broth. Another standout dish is the pork liver sausage, a must-try for those looking to explore the depths of Thai flavors. Each bowl is generously portioned, ensuring that every visit leaves you feeling fulfilled.

At Thai Tham, the experience goes beyond just the food. The restaurant has a rich history, with the owner being a beloved figure in the community. Her dedication to preserving traditional recipes and her warm hospitality make every visit feel like coming home. The establishment has garnered a loyal following, with many patrons returning for the comforting flavors and the sense of community.

Situated in the vibrant Phra Nakhon district, Thai Tham is surrounded by a plethora of attractions. Visitors can easily explore the nearby Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and the bustling markets that define Bangkok's charm. After indulging in a hearty bowl of Gao Lao, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, soaking in the rich culture and history that Bangkok has to offer.

 The signature dish is the Gao Lao, a unique soup featuring pork brain and a rich, peppery broth.

 Yes, there is free street parking available nearby.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler seeking an authentic taste of Thai cuisine, Thai Tham Pork Brain Gao Lao Soup is a must-visit destination. Come savor the flavors, immerse yourself in the culture, and enjoy a dining experience that is both unique and memorable.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzdDZ2UnRnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRZUW6BGZ4jARlUw_qmJ0fgY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzdDZ2UnRnRRAB

I loved the pork brain and offal soup. Really tasty flavors and more unique than just regular pork meat. The broth was peppery and delicious and not too oily. I also enjoyed the pork liver sausage. The radish and fried fish skin weren't as great. The fried fish skin was better when dipped in soup, but probably would've preferred two bowls of pork brain instead of fried fish skins and radishes if still hungry.

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places/ChIJRZUW6BGZ4jARlUw_qmJ0fgY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQzMzdYeEVnEAE

Surprisingly delicious.  The broth is so good. Try Kao Lao with everything and you will get to try a little bit of pig's brain.  Very creamy.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2b0wyZkJREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJRZUW6BGZ4jARlUw_qmJ0fgY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2b0wyZkJREAE

An authentic experience. The broth is really good, but the different topping might not be for everyone. I liked it and I would say you should give it a try if you are in a search for something different and really tasty!

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places/ChIJRZUW6BGZ4jARlUw_qmJ0fgY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURkdG96OE93EAE

Generous portion, clear yet flavorful soup, friendly chef and staff. The shop has been around for so long that there is a sign made by the city recognizing this place. Personally, I don't enjoy the pork brain that much, but you can try once for the experience. After that, you can have Chinese meatball soup topped with fried taro and fish. You can easily be filled up simply by one bowl.

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places/ChIJRZUW6BGZ4jARlUw_qmJ0fgY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURsNC1YUWhRRRAB

This is a famous pork brain gao lao shop, and it lives up to its name. Gao Lao is like noodles soup but without noodles. You can enjoy it as it is or accompany it with a small cup of rice. As I don’t have a big appetite, a gao lao alone suffices.

The owner lady is very old now but still very active, kind, and works hard for her restaurant. The way she speaks is so elegant, her intonation and vocabulary register, what an epitome of an admirable Thai speaker!

Savor Authentic Thai Tham Pork Brain Soup in Bangkok

Thai Tham is a well-loved eatery in Bangkok, specializing in offal dishes, particularly the stewed pig's brain soup known as Gao Lao. The restaurant has been passed down through generations and is cherished by both locals and tourists.

Thai Tham pork brain gao lao soup history overview 

Nestled in the heart of Bangkok at 28/1 Phraeng Phuthon Road, Thai Tham stands as a cherished culinary landmark renowned for its unique offal dishes. This beloved eatery particularly shines with its signature Stewed Pig's Brain Soup, an iconic recipe that has captivated both locals and travelers seeking authentic Thai flavors.

Established in 1957, Thai Tham began as a humble small shop specializing in offal dishes. Over the decades, it has cultivated a devoted following thanks to its distinctive offerings and the careful preservation of traditional recipes. The restaurant's soul is embodied by its current owner, Sudjit Suranan, who continues the family legacy by preparing the Stewed Pig's Brain Soup fresh every morning, ensuring each bowl delivers unparalleled flavor and quality.

In 2024, Thai Tham proudly earned recognition from the MICHELIN Guide, a prestigious accolade affirming its exceptional quality and value in Bangkok's vibrant food scene.

 This honor highlights the restaurant's commitment to preserving authentic flavors and delivering a truly unique dining experience that resonates with food enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Unlike typical noodle soups, Thai Tham specializes in 'Gao Lao', a distinctive style of soup without noodles, centered around offal ingredients that are seldom offered elsewhere. The delicate, peppery broth is both creamy and clear, crafted with precision to balance richness and subtlety, inviting diners to savor a range of textures and flavors from pork brain to liver sausage.

 that satisfy hearty appetites with authentic flavors.

 passed down for over a century, preserving traditional Thai culinary heritage.

 reflecting the rich culinary culture of Bangkok's local neighborhoods.

For those eager to immerse themselves in an authentic Bangkok dining experience, Thai Tham offers a rare and memorable journey into the world of traditional offal cuisine, skillfully crafted with care and respect for time-honored flavors. Whether you are a curious foodie or an adventurous traveler, this historic eatery promises a unique taste of Thailand's culinary heritage.

Dine In

Takeout

Good for Groups

Serves Breakfast

Serves Lunch

Serves Brunch

Thai Tham is a culinary gem in Bangkok, specializing in the unique Gao Lao soup made with tender pork brain. The restaurant offers a warm atmosphere filled with the aroma of simmering spices, inviting both locals and adventurous travelers to indulge in authentic Thai flavors.

Thai Tham pork brain Gao Lao soup

Authentic Thai dishes specializing in offal, including the signature Gao Lao (Pork Brain Soup) and Chinese Liver Sausage.

Gao Lao (Pork Brain Soup)

Chinese Liver Sausage

Thai Tham Menu

Step into Thai Tham, a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Bangkok, where authentic Thai dishes focus on the rich, distinctive flavors of pork offal. This unique eatery is famed for its signature Stewed Pig's Brain Soup, a creamy, peppery broth infused with tender pig's brain, pork offal, and an aromatic blend of herbs and spices. Ideal for adventurous food lovers seeking an extraordinary taste experience, this dish showcases the depth and complexity of traditional Thai comfort food.

Begin your meal with the Chinese Liver Sausage, a savory starter made from finely seasoned pork liver and pork fat, enhanced with fragrant garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of rice wine. This appetizer balances rich flavors with a delicate texture, offering a perfect introduction to the offal-centric menu and complementing the heartier mains to come.

 is the star of the menu. This hearty dish features a rich, peppery broth that harmoniously blends pig's brain with various pork offal, herbs, and spices. The soup delivers a creamy texture paired with robust flavors that are both comforting and intriguing for those eager to explore traditional Thai offal cuisine.

While Thai Tham does not serve desserts, the robust flavors of your main course provide a deeply satisfying conclusion to the meal.

This establishment does not serve alcoholic beverages or coffee, so guests are encouraged to enjoy their meal with water or their own preferred drinks to complement the rich and vibrant flavors of the food.

 showcasing traditional Thai flavors with a focus on pig’s brain and pork offal.

 that are flavorful yet not oily, perfect for comforting meals any time of day.

 ensuring a satisfying experience for those looking for a filling and unique meal.

Savor the rich flavors of Thai Tham pork brain Gao Lao soup at our Bangkok eatery! Discover an authentic culinary gem today!

Authentic Thai Tham Soup in Bangkok's Phra Nakhon

Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Municipality

A traditional Thai soup featuring stewed pig's brain, prepared fresh each morning by octogenarian owner Sudjit Suranan.

Pork Brain Soup (Gao Lao)

A starter made from pork liver and fat, seasoned with garlic, rice wine, soy sauce, salt, and sugar.

Thai Tham pork brain Gao Lao soup - a unique Bangkok culinary gem at phraeng phuthon road, khet phra nakhon district, thailand.

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bangkok's historic Khet Phra Nakhon district, Thai Tham pork brain Gao Lao soup offers an authentic taste experience that foodies and adventurous travelers simply cannot miss. This local favorite specializes in a rare and traditional Thai delicacy: stewed pig's brain soup, known locally as Gao Lao. Priced affordably, this dish showcases the rich culinary heritage of Thailand with its tender, freshly prepared pig's brain, simmered daily to perfection in a peppery, flavorful broth that strikes a perfect balance between clear and hearty.

Beyond the signature pork brain soup, diners can indulge in the savory Chinese Liver Sausage, a beloved starter crafted from pork liver and fat, seasoned with aromatic garlic and soy sauce. Customers often praise the peppery yet not overly oily broth and the unique creamy texture of the pig’s brain, which offers a completely different experience from typical pork dishes. The menu caters well to those seeking an authentic and unique Thai offal delicacy and is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.

The restaurant offers dine-in and takeout options, making it convenient for both casual visitors and those on the go. While there’s no outdoor seating, parking is hassle-free with free parking lots and street parking nearby – a bonus for travelers exploring Bangkok by car. The shop has deep roots in the neighborhood, recognized officially by the city for its long-standing presence and cultural contribution. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with friendly staff and an elderly owner who embodies Thai hospitality and grace.

Try the stewed pig's brain soup early in the day

 as it is made fresh every morning and offers the richest flavors.

Consider pairing your soup with the Chinese Liver Sausage

 This is a chance to savor authentic Thai offal cuisine distinct from typical street food fare.

Discover Thai Tham Pork Brain Gao Lao Soup in Bangkok's Historic Heartland.

Nestled on Phraeng Phuthon Road in Bangkok's vibrant Khet Phra Nakhon district, Thai Tham Pork Brain Gao Lao Soup offers an authentic culinary journey into traditional Thai offal cuisine. This family-run gem is renowned for its signature pork brain soup, known locally as Gao Lao, a flavorful broth that is both creamy and peppery, captivating adventurous food lovers and locals alike.

 is at the core of this establishment, which has proudly served freshly prepared dishes daily for generations. Patrons often praise the exquisite pork brain and offal soup for its distinctive taste and gentle peppery kick that sets it apart from typical pork dishes. The owner’s dedication to preserving traditional recipes shines through, enhanced by the recognition from the MICHELIN Guide, underscoring its culinary significance.

Guests can enjoy generous portions of clear yet deeply flavorful soup accompanied by unique offal toppings like pork liver sausage. The setting is modest and welcoming, with a family atmosphere that adds to the charm. While the menu specializes in offal delicacies, the experience is enhanced by friendly service and a strong sense of tradition passed down through the decades.

Authentic Thai cuisine with a focus on offal specialties, a generational family-run establishment, daily fresh preparations, and recognition by the MICHELIN Guide.

Cash-only payments, limited operating hours, and the unique offal dishes may not suit every palate.

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path culinary adventure in Bangkok, Thai Tham Pork Brain Gao Lao Soup delivers an unmatched taste of Thai heritage. While the offal-focused menu might challenge traditional taste buds, the richly flavored broths and heartfelt service offer a rewarding experience. It is a must-visit for gourmets eager to explore authentic local flavors in a storied neighborhood setting.

Khet Phra Nakhon

Experience traditional Thai dishes at Thai Tham in Bangkok, famous for its Gao Lao (Pork Brain Soup). Enjoy rich flavors and authentic recipes.

Thai Tham Bangkok - Authentic Pork Brain Soup & Thai Cuisine

Discover Thai Tham in Bangkok, renowned for offal delicacies like Gao Lao. A must-visit for authentic Thai food lovers seeking rich flavors and cultural dishes.

Thai Tham Bangkok - Unique Thai Dining & Offal Specialties

Join us at Thai Tham in Bangkok for a unique dining experience featuring offal dishes, authentic flavors, and rich culinary heritage in the heart of Khet Phra Nakhon.

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