Bangkok’s cookshops have been a culinary staple since the 1930s, blending the flavors of Teochew, Hakka, and Hokkien traditions with hints of English colonial fare, all prepared by skilled Hainanese cooks. This unique mix tells the story of the city’s diverse heritage, and Chop Chop Cook Shop carries on that legacy.
Located in the vibrant heart of Chinatown on Yaowarat Road, Chop Chop Cook Shop combines the atmosphere of a classic diner with the authentic charm of a traditional Chinese roast meat and noodle shop. Created by Chef David Thompson, the restaurant delivers classic roast meats and noodles with a nostalgic touch, all wrapped up in stylish Art Deco design. Since its opening in 2023, it has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. In May 2025, it expanded its presence with a new upstairs venue. Goldsmith Bar, the perfect place to toast your dinner decisions. Join me as I take you through our evening here — in my opinion, one of the best nights out you can have in Chinatown.
You can go family-style or stick to your own plate — it all depends on how generous you’re feeling. As for the drunken clams… I’m reluctant to share. They’re far too delicious, so do yourself a favor and order your own.
Drunken Clams — one of the standout starters at Chop Chop Cook Shop, and trust me, this is where you want to kick things off. These chilled clams are perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and spices, all gently soaked in Chinese wine. The dill gives them a bright, fresh kick that takes the clams straight to the heart of the sea. Share if you’re feeling generous, or keep the plate to yourself (no judgment).
The dry Prawn Wontons at Chop Chop Cook Shop are proof that sometimes less really is more. No soup here ( one can asked it to be served in Soup if you want ) — just silky, delicate wonton wrappers packed with sweet, juicy prawn, tossed in a light, savory sauce that clings to every fold.
Jap Chai, is a simple dish featuring braised Chinese greens. It reminded my husband of the American southern dish, collard greens. This is a great side dish.
Now for something with a satisfying crunch — the Prawn and lap cheong wafers. Light, crisp, and full of flavor, these bites earned a special mention in the Bangkok edition of the Michelin Guide. Served with plum sauce, they deliver a perfect balance of savory and sweet
Infused with a smoky tang of spices and honey, Chop Chop’s BBQ pork is irresistible. Succulent and tender, bursting with rich, smoky flavor, it’s perfect served family-style—or as a generous plate just for yourself.
The roast duck is swiftly gaining a well-deserved reputation. Infused with five spice and Chinese rose wine, then glazed with longan honey for a rich mahogany sheen. Served sliced with pickled ginger choy sum, peanuts, and Tanongsak’s exceptional sauce. We opted to order noodles on the side.
Can’t get enough of the dishes above? Do as we did and add another — the Barbecue Pork Soup, served dry this time, with a peppery kick and that delicious smoky BBQ pork.
Chop Chop Cookshop offers a great selection of wines and other preferred beverages—perfect for making the meal just a little bit nicer with a nice glass of wine.
Interior Vibes
Chop Chop Cookshop is where a classic Chinese cookshop meets the vibrant energy of an classic diner. Inside, bright lights flood a colorful space filled with cozy booths, each adorned with traditional Chinese characters that add authentic flair. The lively mix of reds, yellows, and other bold hues makes the atmosphere pop with energy. Sitting in one of the booths, you can watch the bustling street outside, where locals and visitors pass by, adding even more life to this dynamic corner of Chinatown. It’s a place where culture, color, and street vibrance come together perfectly.
The Goldsmith Bar
“Here’s to alcohol, the rose-colored glasses of life.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald
Inside ChopChop Cookshop, you can take a small elevator or use the stairs to reach The Goldsmith Bar. The bar reflects the early 20th century and the history of old Chinatown.
The surroundings are richly decorated, and the cocktails are carefully made. Inspired by the neighborhood’s history, the drinks respect tradition while staying modern. Head Bartender Nabiel Nasran focuses on precision, passion, and perfect pours, creating memorable cocktails one at a time.
The Creator and Chef
David Thompson, an Australian chef and restaurateur. His interest began unexpectedly during a 1986 trip to Bangkok, where he started learning the language and exploring Thai food deeply. He studied rare recipes found in Thai funeral books, which became key inspirations for his cooking.
Thompson first introduced authentic Thai dining outside Thailand, opening restaurants in Sydney in the 1990s. In 2001, he opened Nahm in London, earning a Michelin star within six months. In 2010, he closed Nahm London to bring the restaurant to Bangkok, where it quickly gained acclaim and a spot among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, using ingredients from his own supply company.
Thompson received a Lifetime Achievement Award at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2016 and the White Global Gastronomy Award in 2018. That year, he opened Aaharn in Hong Kong, which earned a Michelin star in 2020. He also consulted for two restaurants in southern Thailand and opened Aksorn in Bangkok in 2020, winning Michelin stars in 2021 and 2022.
In 2023, he opened Chop Chop Cook Shop in Bangkok’s Yaowarat area, followed by Goldsmith Bar above it in 2025.
I’m hungry. Where is it?
We would recommend making a reservation on their website. Keep up to date with their specials etc. by following their official Facebook page or Instagram page.
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