Siam has a reputation for making lunch feel like a luxury purchase. A Thai local thread posted on 19 September maps the student-budget side of the district instead: a small alley beside Ohkajhu in Siam Square Soi 2, FoodHubb under Chula's book centre, MBK's food court, 39Ramen from 39 baht, and more. The useful bit is not one 'best' restaurant. It is the pattern: step off the polished mall route and the area opens into cheap, practical options for students, office workers, and anyone who wants to keep Bangkok money for something more interesting than one over-designed bowl. MBK confirms it has a food court and multiple eateries near National Stadium BTS. The local thread flags a few details as personal memories or possibly changed, so check before you go. Verdict: if Siam looks too expensive, you are probably eating only on the shiny side of the map. Source: @_itsnamaoon