Bangkok has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its culinary scene. From hidden gems that have stood the test of time to royal retreats steeped in centuries-old stories, vintage cafes in Bangkok offer a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past. Each cafe has its own unique tale to tell, inviting you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Thailand’s vibrant capital.

In this listicle, we take you on a journey through time and taste, exploring eight vintage cafes that have become living legends in Bangkok.

1. Café de Norasingha

Address: Phyathai Palace, 315 Ratchawithi Rd., Bangkok, Thailand

Situated within the historic Phyathai Palace, this cafe, designed in a colonial style, pays tribute to Thailand’s inaugural coffeehouse, which traces its roots back to the era of King Rama VI. Sip on traditional Thai coffee or savor classic afternoon tea in a setting that echoes the splendor of Thai royalty. The intricate woodwork, vintage photographs, and serene surroundings make this cafe a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

2. Kope Hya Tai Kee

Address: 37 Samranrat Road, Kate Pranakong, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

Kope Hya Tai Kee is a time capsule that offers a glimpse into Bangkok’s past. While being one of the oldest coffee shops in the city, established in 1952, it has retained its vintage charm. Wooden tables, old-school coffee grinders, and an extensive selection of traditional Thai coffee make this cafe a favorite among locals. You can enjoy a cup of Kopi-O or Hainanese coffee while savoring the slow-paced ambiance that takes you back to a different era. The original shop, located at Sao Ching Cha, is still long-running, but the brand has expanded to include 5 other branches in Bangkok. For all updates and locations, you can visit their page here.

3. Num Heng Lee

Address: 212 Thanon Chakkraphatdi Phong, Wat Sommanat, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100

Gradually gaining popularity on Instagram due to the trendy brunch spots cropping up in the area, Num Heng Lee has a storied history of around six decades. Situated in an unassuming, old shophouse along the bustling Chakkraphatdi Phong street, this cafe has been a local favorite for their morning coffee since as early as 6 AM. The cafe offers a straightforward menu, featuring all the quintessential items you’d anticipate in such an establishment. However, it’s their homemade kaya custard that continues to entice visitors time and time again.

4. On Lok Yun

Address: 72 Charoen Krung Road, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100

A long-standing fixture in Bangkok’s Old Town, On Lok Yun is renowned for serving Thai-style American breakfast classics like fried or scrambled eggs, ham, and sausages. As you step inside, it becomes evident that very little has changed within its walls since its inception 80 years ago. The cafe boasts a no-frills interior, characterized by wooden cabinets on both sides, brimming with an array of 80’s style tins, condiments, and Thai memorabilia.

5. Ek Teng Phu Ki

Address: 163 Thanon Phat Sai, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100

For more than a century, like a well-oiled machine, Ek Teng Phu Ki has been welcoming customers day in and day out. Its remarkable resilience has seen it through wars, relocations, and even a pandemic. This historic coffee shop, arguably Bangkok’s oldest, shifted from Yaowapanich Road to Soi Phat Sai half a century ago, yet its doors never closed. What’s more, the fourth-generation owners embarked on a transformation journey last year, turning it into an Instagram-worthy hotspot that could rival nearby Soi Nana. The once simple cafe, frequented by elderly Thai-Chinese patrons, has undergone a remarkable makeover, with walls adorned in rich jade tiles, a stunning wooden menu board, and vintage-style marble-topped tables that transport visitors into a bygone era.

6. Ear Sae

Address: 161 Phathum Khong Kha Alley, Khwaeng Samphanthawong, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100

Ear Sae opened its first outlet in 1927, marking the beginning of a journey that has spanned over 94 years and is now entering its 95th year. The shop’s current proprietor represents the fourth generation of this family legacy. During his father’s era, the focus was on pioneering department stores. Back in those days, many department stores featured food centres, and the trend was to diversify branches into department stores.

Today, the menu at Ear Sae boasts a selection of over 30 beverages. Their signature coffee remains the traditional variety, prepared with rich condensed milk. They also offer a range of both hot and cold teas. Additionally, they have preserved the timeless appeal of unique teas and custard bread that were part of the shop’s initial offerings when it first opened its doors.

7. Tee Yok Coffee

Address: F101 Golden Charoenkrung Plaza, Soi Si Thammathirat, Pom Prap, Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok 10100, Thailand

Nestled in the heart of Soi Charoen Krung 12, just a stone’s throw from Khlong Thom, you’ll find Tee Yok Coffee – a unique coffee stall with a mouthwatering reputation that spans over four glorious decades. The place is noticeable, with a couple of motorbikes parked in front; when you look closely, you will find that those are, in fact, the tables!

Beyond brewing exceptional coffee with a rich and robust flavour, this timeless gem also crafts delectable charcoal-fired toasts that’ll transport your taste buds to heaven. Imagine an array of tantalizing flavours, each slice served piping hot, boasting a tantalizing crisp on the outside and a heavenly softness within.

8. Tia Yong Lii

Address: Lam Sai, Lam Luk Ka District, Pathum Thani 12150, Thailand

Tia Yong Lii stands as a rare gem in this century-old waterside neighborhood, a once-thriving commercial hub. This family-run joint started as a modest boat meandering through the area’s waterways, bringing forth nostalgia. After eight decades, it’s still here, now managed by the third generation.

At Tia Yong Lii, they brew up tradition in every cup – whether it’s o-yua (steaming black coffee), o-liang (iced black coffee with a hint of sweetness), yok lo (o-liang with creamy milk), or no thao (a unique coffee-tea blend), all crafted from robusta beans roasted and ground right in the back of the shop. And the best part? You can enjoy a cup of delicious coffee for just 10 baht!

While you won’t find fancy pastries at Tia Yong Lii, you should definitely try their classic khai luak (soft-boiled eggs seasoned with pepper and a special sauce). Swing by between 6 AM and 6 PM to experience a piece of Thailand’s rich history.

Final thoughts

Bangkok’s vintage cafes not only offer a delightful culinary experience but also provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Each cafe has a unique story to tell, and its timeless charm invites you to step back in time. Whether you’re a history buff, a coffee connoisseur, or simply seeking a taste of nostalgia, these vintage cafes in Bangkok are waiting to transport you to a bygone era. Explore the flavors, aesthetics, and stories that define the culinary history of this vibrant city. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the tastes and tales of Bangkok’s vintage cafes.