Moo Ping Hea Owen Silom sells grilled pork in Sathorn
One of the best things about waking up early in Thailand is the smell of charcoal grilled pork. While there are many carts that sell the delicious skewers in their local neighbourhood, not many carts can boast the international fame that Moo Ping Hea Owen does.
Here is what makes Hea Owen’s grilled pork a bonafide international sensation.
Tender pork and tamarind sauce
Image credit: @jurdjurd
Despite being cut from the fatty pork neck area, Moo Ping Hea Owen’s grilled pork is not at all greasy. That’s because starting at 5am, uncle Owen’s wife helps him trim off the fat that makes up over a tenth of the weight of the original pork cut. It is then marinated overnight before it goes on the grill at 6am for customers to enjoy.
Image credit: @kongvip_888
Uncle Owen doesn’t just make sure his pork is cooked to tender perfection, but also that he is using the kind of charcoal that will maximize that delicious smoky flavour.
Also, while many carts will have a chilli dip for the grilled pork, uncle Owen uses his special blend of tamarind sauce that is neither too spicy nor too sour. The tamarind perfectly cuts through the rich flavour of the smoky grilled pork neck to give a deliciously well-rounded eating experience.
Your late-night cravings answered
Image credit: @sayabangkok
Usually you can only get moo ping in the mornings, but Moo Ping Hea Owen is also open late into the night.
You can find Uncle Owen’s food cart open from 6am, just before sunrise, for your morning grub.
Image credit: @sayabangkok
But should you find yourself pulling an all-nighter for school or for work, he can grill you some delicious pork up until 2am. You can even get the Bangkok street food experience delivered straight to your doorstep through apps like Grab or LINE MAN.
Uncle Owen’s grilled pork for ฿12 (US$0.34) a skewer
Uncle Owen’s delicious smoky pork has kept him in business for over 30 years. With tourists from all over the world recommending the food cart, he’s become an international sensation.
So think of him next time you want a hearty breakfast or need a quick meal during the late hours of the night.
Moo Ping Hea Owen
Address: 119 37 Rong Than Alley, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120
Opening hours: 6am-2am, Daily
Contact: +66 8 7330 2209 | Google Maps
Notable street food vendors in Bangkok:
- Jek Pui: “Musical Chairs” Thai curry rice
- Jok’s Kitchen: small Michelin-rated Chinese restaurant
- On Lok Yun: Thai-style western breakfast place since 1933
Cover image adapted from:@jurdjurd and @kongvip_888