Soi 38

Soi 38 is a hidden gem in Melbourne, located down a laneway off Bourke Street in an above-ground concrete parking garage.

When you approach Soi 38, you'll be greeted by the lively chatter of lunchtime diners and the enticing aroma of aromatic soup. The colorful tables and chairs add to the vibrant atmosphere of the venue. When Soi 38 first opened in 2015, it offered just two dishes: the signature Thai boat noodles and tom yum soup with prawn wontons. Over the years, the menu has expanded to include a variety of authentic Thai street food dishes. To place your order, you simply need to tick off the dishes and noodles you want, along with any extras and drinks, on the simple paper menu provided at your table. One of the standout dishes at Soi 38 is the boat noodle dish, which is made with a flavorful pork broth infused with star-anise and Chinese five-spice powder. It is served with your choice of braised pork or beef, a pork ball, crackling, bean sprouts, and coriander. For a satisfyingly chewy bite, it is recommended to pair the boat noodles with sen lek, which are rice-stick noodles. In addition to the boat noodles, Soi 38 offers a range of other Thai street food favorites. Some popular dishes include mango sticky rice, larb, and papaya salad. The menu caters to different dietary preferences, with vegetarian-friendly options available. To complement your meal, Soi 38 offers a selection of refreshing drinks. You can enjoy traditional Thai beverages such as Thai Iced Tea and Thai Iced Coffee, which are made with Thai tea paste, cream, and black coffee. Another option is the Lime Coconut Fizz, a refreshing and tangy drink. It is a great place to indulge in authentic Thai street food dishes and enjoy the flavors of Thailand in the heart of Melbourne.