Bangkok’s strongest boat noodles ThongSmith officially lands in Wan Chai: what’s so special about this “boutique-level” bowl that Thais line up for?
The first overseas branch also has Hong Kong–exclusive dishes 🍜
If you’re a Thailand fan, you’re probably familiar with ThongSmith, the perennially packed restaurant at Bangkok’s upscale Central Embassy mall. Since opening in 2018, this “boutique-level” boat noodle restaurant has completely changed perceptions of street-style boat noodles with its exceptional broth and premium ingredients. Here’s some good news: the brand’s first overseas location has officially opened on Spring Garden Lane in Wan Chai. Now, you can enjoy those rich, lingeringly sweet boat noodles in Hong Kong without flying to Bangkok.
From street food to boutique dining: the “goldsmith”-level artistry of boat noodles
The name ThongSmith carries a deeper meaning. “Thong” means gold in Thai, while “Smith” means artisan; together, they form “goldsmith,” reflecting founder Atchara “Pla” Burarak and head chef Karn Kittivech’s vision of perfecting and transforming this traditional dish. They bring the traditional flavors of Bangkok’s waterside communities in the 1950s together with quality ingredients such as Australian wagyu and Kurobuta pork, taking humble boat noodles to another level.
The soul of the bowl: a rich, aromatic broth slowly simmered for 8 hours
The broth is undoubtedly the soul of a bowl of boat noodles. ThongSmith’s signature broth is simmered for a full 8 hours with galangal, star anise, lemongrass, pickled garlic, and other spices. Its key “secret weapon” is the fried garlic oil developed by head chef Karn, which is blended into the broth and finished with fragrant, toasted garlic bits for added layers of aroma. Diners can choose from heat levels 1 to 3, whether they prefer bold flavors or something lighter and naturally sweet.
Must-order pick 1. A lavish bowl: ThongSmith’s signature wagyu beef slice boat noodles
This signature dish (HK$ 148) is the first choice for meat lovers. The bowl is generously topped with slices of Australian wagyu beef shank, tender and rich in beefy flavor, along with house-made beef balls, beef tendon, and beef brisket. The plentiful toppings soak up the rich, spicy broth, making every bite a luxurious treat.
Must-order pick 2. A pork option: ThongSmith Hokkaido pork boat noodles
If you don’t eat beef, opt for this bowl (HK$ 128). It features evenly marbled Hokkaido pork, along with pork rib-eye slices, textured pork cartilage, and pork meatballs. The broth and meat flavors are perfectly balanced.
Must-order pick 3. Hong Kong exclusive: wok-fried noodles and rice
To celebrate the opening of its first overseas location, head chef Karn created several limited-edition dishes especially for the Hong Kong restaurant. “Chef Karn’s Thai Fried Rice” (from HK$ 138) recalls the flavors of the chef’s childhood, with pepper adding a gentle kick. “ThongSmith Thai Pad Thai” (from HK$ 138), meanwhile, follows an eastern Thai preparation, stir-fried with chili paste for a particularly distinctive flavor. Also on offer is the melt-in-your-mouth “Green Curry Beef Tongue Rice” (HK$ 148), an authentic Thai rice-plate favorite.
Must-order pick 4. Thai snacks and desserts: Chef Chalee’s “Khao Khluk” grilled chicken
This grilled chicken (HK$ 68) is prepared in the southern Thai style: chicken thigh is marinated in red curry and coconut milk for 24 hours, then grilled until smoky and charred. Served with cucumber salad, it’s especially appetizing. For dessert, don’t miss the “Pandan Coconut Pudding” (HK$ 18) or “Fried Northern Thai Banana” (HK$ 88). Made with “jasmine bananas,” which have a honey-like aroma, the latter is one of the most popular finishing desserts at the original Bangkok location.
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Warm wood tones: like stepping into a Bangkok floating market
The Hong Kong restaurant’s interior is equally thoughtfully designed, pairing warm wood elements with spherical copper pendant lights for an inviting, nostalgic atmosphere. Illustrations of old floating markets and boat noodle vendors adorn the walls, while steam and aromas waft from the open kitchen, making it feel as though you’ve been transported to Thailand in an instant.
ThongSmith
Address: 38 Spring Garden Lane, Wan Chai Spring Garden G/F
Opening hours: 11:30 – 22:00 (last orders at 21:30)
Inquiries: +852 2802 0992
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