Talat Kao (Old Market)

Market in Bangkok

Talat Kao, Chinatown Bangkok
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Jorge Láscar

Talat Kao, one of Bangkok’s oldest markets, has been a central trading hub in Chinatown for over 200 years. “Talat Kao” literally translates to “Old Market” in Thai. Originally serving as the fresh trading area for the first Chinese settlers, it now combines tradition with a modern walking-street vibe, though motorbikes and tuk-tuks still weave through the foot traffic. Renowned for its Chinese culinary specialties, the market offers a variety of exotic delicacies like shark fins, dried abalone, puffed fish stomachs, and steamed bird’s nests—perfect for adventurous food enthusiasts. For those with simpler tastes, dumplings, noodles, and freshly squeezed orange juice are also readily available.

At the entrance to the market, you’ll find a cluster of fruit stalls selling seasonal produce at some of the city’s lowest prices. Venturing further inside reveals an array of dried goods and unique snacks, including the hard-to-find pak mor, a delightful steamed coconut treat. Talat Kao offers a fascinating glimpse into the culinary heritage of Bangkok’s Chinese community.

The Talat Kao (Old Market) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

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