Cover Semi-ripe durian, cooked in the tandoor served with kadhi, spicy chutneys, aachars and tandoori rotis at Gaa (Photo: Instagram / restaurant_gaa)
Semi-ripe durian, cooked in the tandoor served with kadhi, spicy chutneys, aachars and tandoori rotis at Gaa (Photo: Instagram / restaurant_gaa)
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Miele's in-house chef Lennard Yeong, a self-confessed lover of Bangkok, takes us through his favourite dining spots in Thailand's capital
Bangkok may have always been known for being quick weekend getaway spot for Singaporeans, and surely needs no introduction as a city with amazing street food. But in the last decade or so, it has cemented itself as a true culinary capital of Asia, having not just sizzling street food stalls, but now with a plethora of sophisticated fine dining establishments, boasting a total of 36 Michelin stars within the city, and the No. 1 restaurant in Asia on Asia’s 50 Best list this year (2023).
Prepare to embark on a mouth-watering journey as we delve into the captivating world of Thai cuisine. Known for its harmonious blend of flavours, vibrant colours, and fragrant spices, Thai food embodies ‘hitting all your senses’ with its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Whether you’re exploring the bustling street food scene or indulging in a fine dining experience, Thailand’s culinary offerings promise an unforgettable adventure filled with bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and the warm hospitality that accompanies every meal.
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1. Start with some casual Thai classics, with a twist at Samlor
Above Dish at Samlor (Photo: Facebook)
Dish at Samlor (Photo: Facebook)
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Whether you consider yourself a connoisseur of Thai cuisine or are just beginning to explore its flavours, Samlor is guaranteed to enchant your taste buds. The restaurant, created by the culinary brilliance of Chef Napol “Joe” Jantraget and Saki Hoshino, the masterminds behind the acclaimed 80/20 restaurant that earned a prestigious Michelin star, offers a dining experience that is more laid-back and casual. Samlor’s menu is centered around dishes traditionally enjoyed with beer, but don’t worry, alcohol is entirely optional here. While their duck larb and fermented pork with crispy rice are highly popular choices, it is their extraordinary take on khai jeow (Thai fried omelette) that truly steals the spotlight, making it an absolute must-try.
Samlor, 1076 Charoen Krung Road, Bangkok, 10500, Thailand, +66 64 210 1520
2. Have some thoughtful fine dining at Gaa
Above Restaurant Gaa (Photo: Restaurant Gaa)
Restaurant Gaa (Photo: Restaurant Gaa)
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Chef Garima Arora showcases her culinary finesse in the exquisite restaurant Gaa, where she combines her experiences at Noma, her Indian heritage, and the vibrant flavours of Thailand to create something truly extraordinary. Gaa sets itself apart from other establishments by eschewing extravagant ingredients like caviar, uni, or Wagyu for mere showmanship. Instead, she fearlessly embraces bolder choices, exemplified by her main course of grilled durian, accompanied by a tantalising curry and homemade flatbread. This particular dish may initially spark hesitation in some diners, but Arora is uninterested in taking the easy route. She aims to challenge diners pre-conceived notions. Prepare for a dining experience at Gaa filled thoughtful and distinctive dishes, sometimes challenging your perception of food, but remaining consistently delicious.
Gaa, 46/1 Sukhumvit 53, Klong Tan Nuea, Wattana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand, +66 63 987 4747
Read more: Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants reveals its 51-100 list for 2023
3. Isaan food at its purest at Zao Larb
Above Food spread at Zao Carb (Photo: Instagram / @zaolarb)
Food spread at Zao Carb (Photo: Instagram / @zaolarb)
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Eve Palasak, the multifaceted owner of Zao Larb, extends her talents beyond the realm of cooking. With a background in fashion and crafts, she now directs her passion towards food, specifically focusing on the vibrant flavors of Issan, her cherished hometown. In order to uphold the authenticity of Issan cuisine, Palasak,chooses to source most of her ingredients from the region itself. Zao Larb offers a diverse selection of larb variations, ranging from refreshing watermelon larb to savoury grilled pork larb and tantalising duck larb. Additionally, the menu showcases lesser-known ingredients and native dishes from the Isaan region, including the captivating ant egg salad. For those seeking a more comforting dining experience, the restaurant also presents a variety of hot pot options to satiate your cravings. Zao Larb is a great place to experience the authentic flavours and culinary traditions of the Issan region.
4. Progressive Thai food at Samrub Samrub Thai
Above Dish at Samrub Samrub Thai (Photo: The World's 50 Best)
Dish at Samrub Samrub Thai (Photo: The World's 50 Best)
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Samrub Samrub Thai might just be my favourite dining destination in Bangkok. Under the guidance of chef Prin Polsuk, who honed his craft at Nahm alongside esteemed chef David Thompson, this restaurant is now one of the most coveted seats in the city. What truly distinguishes Samrub is it is constantly changing menu, which gets refreshed every two months. Polsuk draws inspiration from his extensive collection of ancient cookbooks, some of which contain recipes served to the royal family during the reign of King Rama II (1809-1824), as well as lesser known dishes from small communities and tribal foods. I recommend securing a seat at the counter, where Polsuk often engages in conversations with his guests, proudly showcasing his cookbooks and even offering a glass of banana liquor, creating an authentic chef's experience that is not just delicious, but very fun.
5. Try private dining at Haawm
If you seek a dining experience that is far more intimate, Haawm might just be your best bet. This unassuming private dining venue caters to a two tables per night, accommodating a groups of six or 10 people. Spearheading Haawm’s culinary journey is the talented chef Dylan Eitharong, using his Thai-American heritage, he artfully blends traditional Thai classics with elements techniques like smoking and the use of dry rubs inspired by American barbecue, it’s bold meets even bolder flavours over at Haawm. The menu features seven communal-style dishes, and dynamically evolves with the changing seasons, be sure to check out their Instagram page at @haawmbkk for reservations as well as updates to the menu.
