Jok Prince: A Taste of Timeless Bangkok at the Historic Prince Theatre Alley
Jok Prince Bangkok. Such a perfect breakfast dish.
Bangkok’s Century-Old Culinary Legacy
Bangkok’s food scene is more than contemporary trends, it’s a living history. The city is home to numerous restaurants that have operated for a century or more, reflecting Thailand’s unique historical continuity. Many of these establishments were founded by ethnic Chinese families, who skillfully adapted their specialized cuisines to local Thai tastes, often focusing on a single standout dish.
Jok Prince: A Century of Congee Excellence
Jok Prince, a venerable congee (jok) eatery, embodies this enduring legacy. Located for nearly 100 years at the mouth of the alley leading to the former Prince Theatre (established 1908) in Bangrak, the restaurant is now run by its fourth generation of owners. During a recent visit, I observed the meticulous preparation of their dishes and spoke with the current proprietor about the restaurant’s long history.
Prince Theatre Bangkok (Circa 1908)
The Perfect Bowl of Congee
Jok Prince’s congee is celebrated for its delicate balance and smooth texture. The rice porridge is complemented by the fresh sharpness of raw ginger and spring onions, creating a signature flavor profile. A highlight is their handmade pork meatballs, often served with an optional egg for extra richness. Long-time patrons, including my dining partner and travel writer Joe Cummings, have praised Jok Prince since the 1970s for maintaining its exceptional standards.
Nearby Culinary Landmark: Kha Moo Trok Sung
Just around the corner is Kha Moo Trok Sung (ขาหมูตรอกซุงบางรัก), known for its stewed pork leg on rice. Although “younger” at roughly 70 years old, it is another landmark of Bangrak’s historic food scene, representing the rich diversity and longevity of Bangkok’s culinary traditions.
