Thailand's popular food street struggles amid decline in foreign tourists

By Bich Phuong June 1, 2025 | 05:00 am PT

Banthat Thong food street in Thailand at night, September 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Bich Phuong

Restaurant revenues along Banthat Thong, one of Thailand's most famous food streets, have dropped by 40–50% in the first five months of this year due to a sharp decline in foreign visitors, especially Chinese.

Foreign tourists typically make up 20–30% of the area's daily foot traffic, with Chinese visitors representing the majority. As the result, the decline in Chinese arrivals has significantly impacted local businesses, Sittichan Vuttipornkul, adviser to the Bantadthong Association, said as cited by the Bangkok Post.

Between Jan. 1 and May 18, Thailand welcomed 13.4 million international tourists, down 1.75% year-on-year, Reuters reported.

The number of Chinese tourists dropped 25% to 1.64 million. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, China was Thailand's largest tourism market, with arrivals peaking at 11.13 million in 2019.

Concerns about tourist safety have also contributed to the drop in arrivals, particularly after the high-profile kidnapping of Chinese actor Xing Xing in January.

Banthat Thong, home to over 300 restaurants, was named the world's 14th coolest street by Time Out magazine in 2024. The street receives between 10,000 and 30,000 visitors daily.

In addition to falling visitor numbers, Banthat Thong is facing criticism on social media. Some tourists have complained that food quality has declined while prices have increased, adding further challenges for restaurant operators.