The Pork Noodle: A Guide to the Three Rung Reung Shops on Sukhumvit 26
For decades, Rung Reung/Rueang (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวหมูรุ่งเรือง) has been legendary for pork noodles in Bangkok. Located on Sukhumvit Soi 26, this family dynasty has split and expanded over the years, leading to what many visitors now perceive as two fiercely competing shops. Knowing how to differentiate them is key to ordering successfully and avoiding a misplaced delivery rider!
The main difference comes down to the inclusion of the word “ตั๋ง” (Tung) in the name and their distinct Michelin statuses. It’s important to remember: the Michelin Bib Gourmand recognizes restaurants for offering “good food at moderate prices,” highlighting great value, while Michelin Listed simply acknowledges quality cooking within the broader guide selection.
The Two Competing Identities: Tung vs. Non-Tung
Originally, the rivalry was known simply as the “left shop” and the “right/middle shop.” Today, they operate under two distinct business identities, though they both specialize in the same delicious kway teow moo (pork noodles).
| Shop Identity | Naming | Michelin Status | Key Locations |
| Rung Reung Tung | Includes ตั๋ง (Tung) in the Thai name | Michelin Bib Gourmand Recipient (2018–2024) | 1. The original corner shop (10/3 Sukhumvit 26). 2. The newer, larger shop across the street (next to Noble Refine condo and 7−11). |
| Rung Reung | Without ตั๋ง (Tung) in the Thai name | Michelin Listed (2024 Guide) | The “right shop” (10/1 Sukhumvit 26). |
A Note on Location: The Michelin Pin Trap Be aware that the newer, expanded Rung Reung Tung location across the street is the one with the large seating area and best displays the Bib Gourmand recognition (look for the large Michelin logo). Google Maps may still incorrectly show the 10/3 Sukhumvit 26 address for this larger shop, even though the physical location has expanded across the street.
The Founding Date Mystery: We know the Tung shop as the ‘original,’ but there is some confusion: the original Tung shop’s profile photo on delivery apps claims “Since 1965,” whereas the non-Tung shop claims “Since 1960.” Go figure on the years why the generally recognized “original” shop claims a later start date!
The Noodle Showdown: Taste Differences
While both shops offer excellent soup, dry, and tom yum (spicy) versions, they have subtly different flavor profiles due to slight variations in broth preparation and ingredient texture:
| Feature | Rung Reung Tung (Corner/Bib Gourmand) | Rung Reung (Right Shop/Michelin Listed) |
| Broth Flavor | Favored for its deeper, richer, and more flavorful pork broth, with a prominent fried garlic aroma. | Has a slightly more peppery and less intensely porky flavor in the broth. |
| Minced Pork | Very fine texture, creating a smoother mouthfeel. | More roughly chopped, providing a distinctly different, chunkier texture. |
| Loyalty | Many regulars prefer this shop due to the intensely rich broth and deep fried garlic notes. | Has many loyal fans who prefer the brighter, peppery flavor and coarser pork. |
Logistics and Operating Hours
Both are highly popular, especially with foreigners, and offer quick service even during busy weekday mornings. Crucially, their menu is available in Thai, English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese!
| Location | Address | Business Hours | Delivery Service |
| Rung Reung Tung (Original Spot) | 10/3 Sukhumvit 26 | Mon–Sun: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM | Line Man |
| Rung Reung (The Right/Middle Shop) | 10/1 Sukhumvit 26 | Mon-Sun: 8:00 AM– AM–5:30 PM | Grab |
If you have a strong preference for a rich, deep pork flavor, stick with the Tung shop. If you prefer a lighter, peppery profile, the Non-Tung shop is your choice. I usually go to the original Tung shop due to my initial introduction, but many of my friends prefer the right shop. The servings are just right, so if you have the space, try both to see which side of the great Rung Reung rivalry you fall on!
