BEST THAI FOOD IN BANGKOK:
TOP THAI RESAURANTS
If you’re looking for the best Thai food in Bangkok then look no further than the traditional Thai restaurants that have been perfecting their craft for centuries. These are better quality than street food and often cook Thai dishes you have never had before. This is because many serve Royal Thai cuisine, food that was originally ONLY served to the royal Thai family and forbidden for anyone else. While you can eat delicious Thai food everywhere in Bangkok, we’ve curated a shortlist of the best traditional Thai restaurants that offer a true taste of the country’s diverse and flavorful cuisine. Not all the ones we recommend serve traditional Royal Thai but ALL are traditional and serve dishes that are so delicious and unique, you will be dreaming about it for months! Here are the best of the best:
1) RUEN MALLIKA
Ruen Mallika is a sophisticated restaurant set in a traditional Thai teak house, offering a unique and authentic dining experience. The restaurant’s extensive menu features a variety of Royal Thai cuisine, prepared with high-quality ingredients and served in an elegant atmosphere. Some of the most popular dishes include the spicy and sour shrimp soup, the crispy pork with garlic and pepper, and the green curry with chicken. Ruen Mallika is a great choice for those who want to experience traditional Thai cuisine while enjoying a beautiful and elegant setting.
2) BAAN KHANITHA
Baan Khanitha is a well-known establishment with multiple locations in Bangkok, serving authentic Thai food in a cozy and elegant setting. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including curries, soups, and stir-fries, prepared with high-quality ingredients and attention to detail. Some of the most popular dishes include the green curry with chicken, the stir-fried prawns with garlic and pepper, and the spicy and sour soup with prawns (shrimp) Baan Khanitha is famous for its use of traditional cooking methods and techniques that bring out the best of Thai flavors. The restaurant’s elegant setting, impeccable service, and authentic Thai cuisine make it a top choice for both locals and tourists.
3) SANEH JAAN
Saneh Jaan is a Michelin-starred restaurant that specializes in Royal Thai cuisine. The restaurant is located near Lumpini Park and offers a refined dining experience with dishes inspired by ancient Thai recipes and a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Saneh Jaan’s menu features a variety of classic dishes, including the famous Massaman curry, the grilled beef salad with spicy dressing, and the crispy pork belly with garlic and pepper. The restaurant’s exceptional service, elegant decor, and unforgettable dishes make it one of the top choices for those looking for an upscale dining experience in Bangkok.
4) THANYING
Thanying is an upscale restaurant that offers authentic Royal Thai cuisine in an elegant setting. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including curries, soups, and appetizers, prepared with attention to detail and high-quality ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes include the spicy and sour soup with prawns, the green curry with chicken, and the steamed fish with lime and chili. Thanying is the perfect choice for those looking for a refined yet authentic dining experience in Bangkok.
5) PAII – HOUSE OF SATHORN
Located in a historic mansion, The House on Sathorn offers a unique dining experience with its “Taste of Siam” menu. The menu focuses on traditional Royal Thai cuisine, showcasing the rich flavors and delicate presentation associated with this style of cooking. Some of the most popular dishes include the spicy and sour soup with prawns, the green curry with chicken, and the stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts. The restaurant’s elegant decor, exceptional service, and unforgettable dishes make it one of the top choices for those looking for an upscale dining experience in Bangkok.
6) BLUE ELEPHANT
Blue Elephant is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an authentic fine dining experience in Bangkok. The restaurant is located in a stunning colonial-style mansion, which sets the tone for the exceptional culinary journey that awaits. Blue Elephant is renowned for its blend of Royal Thai and contemporary dishes that are prepared using the freshest and highest-quality ingredients. The menu boasts a wide variety of dishes, including its signature crispy soft-shell crab, lobster salad with green mango, and slow-cooked Massaman curry. Each dish is beautifully presented, and the restaurant’s exceptional service adds to the overall experience.
7) KRUA APSORN
Krua Apsorn is famous for its delicious and authentic Thai dishes, particularly its crab dishes like crab curry and crab omelette. Yum! The restaurant has several branches in Bangkok and attracts both locals and tourists with its affordable prices and traditional flavors. In addition to its famous crab dishes, Krua Apsorn also offers a variety of other Thai specialties, including the spicy and sour soup with fish, the green curry with chicken, and the stir-fried morning glory with chili and garlic. Krua Apsorn’s casual atmosphere and authentic flavors make it a great choice for those looking for an authentic Thai dining experience in Bangkok.
8) SALA RIM NAAM
Sala Rim Naam is an upscale Thai restaurant located within the luxurious Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience in a beautiful Thai-style pavilion, complete with traditional Thai dance performances. The set menu features a variety of Royal Thai dishes, including the famous green curry with chicken, the stir-fried prawns with chili and garlic, and the crispy fish with sweet and sour sauce. Each dish is prepared using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients, and the restaurant’s exceptional service adds to the overall experience. Sala Rim Naam is a must-visit for anyone looking for an upscale dining experience in Bangkok.
Sala Rim Naam at the Mandarin Hotel
9) NAHM
Nahm is one of Bangkok’s most renowned Thai restaurants, having earned a Michelin star. Located in the luxurious COMO Metropolitan Hotel, the restaurant is led by Chef Pim Techamuanvivit, who is passionate about rare recipes and bold flavors. Nahm’s menu features a variety of traditional Thai dishes, including the famous sour orange curry with sea bass, the spicy minced pork salad, and the stir-fried morning glory with chili and garlic. The restaurant’s exceptional service and elegant atmosphere add to the overall experience, making Nahm a top choice for those looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Bangkok.
10) BO LAN
Founded by renowned chefs Duangporn ‘Bo’ Songvisava and Dylan ‘Lan’ Jones, Bo.Lan is a world-class Thai restaurant that is famous for its commitment to authentic flavors and sustainable practices. The menu features traditional Thai cuisine with a focus on using locally sourced and organic ingredients. Bo.Lan offers a choice of set menus that change seasonally and are designed to showcase the very best of Thai cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include the spicy pork curry with shrimp paste, grilled beef salad with mint and lemongrass, and the crispy fish with sweet and sour sauce. Bo.Lan is an excellent choice for those looking to experience Thai cuisine at its finest while supporting sustainable practices.
BONUS: SOMTUM DER
With its roots in the Northeastern province of Isan, Somtum Der is famous for its spicy papaya salad (somtum) and other Isan-style dishes. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is popular among both locals and tourists. Some of the most popular dishes include the somtum with salted egg and crab, the grilled pork neck with spicy dipping sauce, and the spicy and sour soup with fish. Somtum Der’s authentic Isan flavors and casual atmosphere make it a great choice for those looking for an authentic and affordable Thai dining experience.
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