Bangkok Travel Guide: Top Markets, Michelin-Starred Dining, and Must-See Attractions
Bangkok at a glance: A Vibrant Metropolis of Temples, Markets, and Modernity
Bangkok is a dynamic, bustling city where ancient temples, sprawling markets, and glittering skyscrapers coexist harmoniously. As Thailand’s capital, it offers a fascinating blend of rich cultural heritage and urban excitement, making it a must-visit destination for travelers. Known for its vibrant street life, world-class dining, shopping districts, and iconic landmarks, Bangkok has something to offer for every type of visitor.
Popular Areas to Stay in Bangkok
Bangkok is divided into several districts, each with its own unique vibe and attractions. Here’s an overview of the main neighbourhoods that are popular with tourists, with highlights on what each area has to offer:
Silom: Where we stayed! The city’s financial district by day and nightlife centre by night, Silom is known for its bustling atmosphere, street markets, and proximity to Lumphini Park. It’s an area where you’ll find a mix of office towers, luxury hotels, and local street food spots. Silom is also home to Patpong Night Market and has easy access to the BTS Skytrain, making it a convenient base for exploring Bangkok.
Siam: This is Bangkok’s primary shopping district, home to some of the city’s largest malls, including Siam Paragon, MBK Center, and CentralWorld. Siam is bustling with activity and is a fantastic area for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s also a major hub for the BTS Skytrain, making it easy to travel to other parts of the city.
Sukhumvit: Known for its cosmopolitan vibe, Sukhumvit is packed with international restaurants, trendy cafes, bars, and upscale shopping malls. Popular areas within Sukhumvit include Asok (a major transit intersection), Thonglor (Bangkok’s cool nightlife hub), and Ekkamai. Sukhumvit is lively and diverse, appealing to travelers who enjoy a modern, urban environment with easy access to nightlife and dining.
Riverside: The riverside area is perfect for those looking to experience a more traditional side of Bangkok with stunning views along the Chao Phraya River. Riverside hotels, such as the Mandarin Oriental and The Peninsula, offer luxurious stays with views of historic landmarks like Wat Arun and The Grand Palace. The area is quieter, with easy access to cultural attractions via river ferries and boats.
Old City (Rattanakosin): This is where you’ll find many of Bangkok’s most famous landmarks, including The Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun. The Old City has a historic charm, with cultural sites and traditional markets. While there are fewer large hotels, this area is ideal for travelers who prioritise sightseeing and cultural experiences.
Chinatown (Yaowarat): Known for its lively street food scene, Chinatown is vibrant and energetic, especially at night. This area is ideal for food lovers looking to experience Bangkok’s diverse culinary offerings, with streets lined with market stalls, seafood vendors, and traditional Chinese medicine shops. Chinatown is easily accessible via the MRT and offers a unique cultural experience.
The Silom district of Bangkok
Why We Chose Silom
For our stay in Bangkok, we chose Silom for its central location, easy access to public transport, and balanced mix of attractions. Silom’s convenient location made it an ideal base for exploring all corners of Bangkok, with the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway close by. Staying in Silom allowed us to experience Bangkok’s lively energy, while being within reach of shopping areas like Siam, cultural sites along the Chao Phraya River, and excellent dining options.
Silom also has a unique blend of high-rise buildings, local markets, and lush green spaces, like Lumphini Park. Its lively nightlife scene, including the iconic Patpong Night Market, offered plenty of options for evening entertainment, from rooftop bars to night markets. Silom gave us a well-rounded experience of Bangkok’s urban energy, while also providing pockets of calm and relaxation.
Getting Around Bangkok: Transportation Tips for Travelers
Navigating Bangkok, a sprawling metropolis with busy streets and endless attractions, is made easy thanks to its diverse transportation options. Whether you’re exploring iconic temples, bustling markets, or sleek shopping malls, Bangkok offers convenient ways to get from one place to another.
BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway
Bangkok’s BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway are the most efficient ways to travel around the city, avoiding the notorious traffic jams. These systems cover most of the main tourist and shopping areas, including Siam, Silom, Sukhumvit, and Chatuchak.
Benefits:
Air-conditioned, clean, and reliable.
Fares start at THB 16 and vary depending on distance.
Convenient for accessing major attractions like Siam Paragon, Terminal 21, and Chatuchak Market.
Tips:
Purchase a Rabbit Card for the BTS to save time at ticket machines. You can use contactless payment cards on the MRT (Europay, Mastercard and Visa), which makes things really easy.
Stations are well-marked in English, making navigation easy for tourists.
Taxis and Grab
Taxis are widely available in Bangkok, but Grab (Southeast Asia’s ride-hailing app) is often the preferred option for visitors due to its transparency and ease of use.
Taxis:
Metered taxis are inexpensive, but ensure the driver turns on the meter to avoid overcharging.
Beware of peak traffic hours, as travel times can significantly increase.
Grab:
Grab allows you to book rides directly through the app, with clear pricing and the option to pay via cash or card.
Grab bikes are also available for short trips and are faster during traffic jams.
Tuk-Tuks
The iconic tuk-tuk is a fun and quintessential Bangkok experience. These three-wheeled vehicles are best for short distances, especially in areas like Chinatown or the Old City.
Tips:
Always agree on the price before starting your journey, as tuk-tuks don’t use meters.
They’re not the cheapest or most practical option but are worth trying for the experience.
River Transport
The Chao Phraya River offers a unique way to get around Bangkok, especially when visiting riverside attractions like Wat Arun or The Grand Palace.
Options:
Chao Phraya Express Boats: Affordable and frequent, these boats stop at major tourist attractions along the river.
Tourist Boats: These cost slightly more but include guides and information about key stops.
Tips:
Fares start at THB 15 for the local boats and are slightly higher for tourist boats.
Avoid private boat operators offering overpriced rides to tourists.
Motorbike Taxis
For those in a hurry, motorbike taxis are a fast and affordable way to weave through Bangkok’s traffic. They’re ideal for short trips but not recommended for those uncomfortable with riding on two wheels in busy streets.
Tips:
Look for drivers wearing orange vests at motorbike taxi stands.
Agree on the price in advance if no meter is used.
Walking
Although Bangkok is a large city, some areas, like Siam, Chinatown, and Ari, are great for walking, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Be prepared for the heat, though, and stay hydrated if you’re exploring on foot.
Tips for Navigating Bangkok
Traffic Woes: Avoid traveling by car or taxi during peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) when traffic is at its worst.
Internet Access: Having a local SIM card or access to Wi-Fi will make booking Grab rides or checking maps much easier.
Cash is King: While Grab allows card payments, other forms of transportation like tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and boats typically require cash.
Bangkok’s diverse transportation options ensure that getting around is part of the adventure. Whether you’re gliding above the city on the Skytrain, zipping through traffic on a motorbike taxi, or cruising down the Chao Phraya River, there’s a way to suit every traveler’s needs and budget.
Where to Stay in Bangkok: Our Experience at The W Bangkok
We chose the W Bangkok for its modern style, central location in Silom, and renowned service. Located on North Sathorn Road, the W Bangkok stands out for its sleek, contemporary design and high-energy vibe. The hotel caters to a stylish crowd, and its central location in Silom made it easy to explore nearby attractions and access public transport.
Our room was a Spectacular Room (this is what the room-type was called), offering a spacious and luxurious setting with views of the city skyline. The room featured chic decor, a comfortable bed, a well-stocked minibar, and plenty of modern amenities that added to the convenience and comfort of our stay. Check out the room tour further down. The staff at W Bangkok were incredibly attentive, adding personal touches to our experience, such as birthday decorations, cakes, and balloons, which made our special occasions memorable.
Some of the amazing facilities we tried at the W Bangkok:
The Kitchen Table: This is the hotel’s main restaurant, offering an international menu with both Thai and Western dishes. We enjoyed breakfast here each morning, with a wide variety of options and a relaxed atmosphere.
WOOBAR: The hotel’s stylish bar offers creative cocktails, music, and a trendy ambiance, making it a great spot to unwind in the evenings. The night we arrived they were hosting a Pride-party - we arrived a little too late to go, but it sounded fun.
FIT Gym: As fitness enthusiasts, we appreciated W Bangkok’s well-equipped gym, which included a range of high-quality machines, free weights, and a dedicated area for stretching and cardio. The hotel also provided refreshing cold lemon ginger tea bottles, which were a thoughtful and energising touch.
Outdoor Pool: The W Bangkok’s pool area has a chic, urban vibe, with comfortable lounge chairs, poolside service, and views of the surrounding buildings.
AWAY Spa: For relaxation, the hotel’s AWAY Spa is a must-visit. With its sleek design and calming atmosphere, it offers a variety of treatments, including massages and facials, designed to help you recharge after a busy day exploring the city. We managed to squeeze a foot massage in, which was perfect after a long walk around the city.
Here’s an inside look at our Spectacular Room at W Bangkok, complete with stunning city views, luxurious amenities, and bold, modern decor.
Inside the Spectacular Room at W Bangkok – A Modern Luxury Experience
Check out our video tour of the state-of-the-art gym at W Bangkok, equipped with modern fitness machines, free weights, and a stylish design perfect for maintaining your workout routine while traveling.
Tour of the Gym at W Bangkok – Luxury Fitness in Silom
Staying at W Bangkok allowed us to immerse ourselves in Bangkok’s vibrant lifestyle while enjoying the comfort and amenities of a high-end hotel. Its central location in Silom and access to public transport made it the perfect base for exploring the city, and the hotel’s attentive service and modern aesthetic contributed to a memorable Bangkok experience.
ARRIVAL in bangkok
We landed in Bangkok, taking a low-cost Air Asia flight from Singapore into Don Mueang Airport. Don Mueang is one of two major airports in Bangkok, serving primarily budget airlines such as Air Asia, Nok Air, and Thai Lion Air. If you're flying domestically or within nearby countries like Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, or Laos, chances are you’ll land here.
After clearing customs, we had a few options for getting into the city center, depending on budget and convenience:
Metered Taxi: Taxis are available just outside the arrivals area. These taxis are regulated and operate on a meter, with an additional airport surcharge of 50 baht. If you’re traveling during peak hours, taking the expressway or tollway (which adds a small fee) is worth it to avoid traffic. This is one of the more economical options, costing roughly 300–400 baht depending on your destination and traffic.
Airport Bus: For those on a budget, Don Mueang operates a reliable airport bus service to key areas in Bangkok, including Mo Chit BTS Station and Victory Monument. Fares start as low as 30–50 baht, making this the cheapest option. It’s a good choice if you’re traveling light and not in a hurry.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Grab are widely used in Bangkok. While prices are generally reasonable, surge pricing during peak hours can make this option more expensive than a metered taxi. You’ll also need a local SIM card or access to Wi-Fi to book.
Hotel Transfer: For the ultimate convenience, many hotels offer private transfer services. While this is typically the most expensive option, it ensures a seamless and hassle-free arrival—especially if you’re arriving late at night or traveling with lots of luggage.
We opted for our hotel’s transfer service, which cost THB 2,600. It was definitely the most expensive option, but after a long travel day, the peace of mind was worth it. The transfer was in a lovely Mercedes E-Class, which was not only comfortable but also spacious enough to accommodate our overpacking habits—a large AWAY suitcase each and a Filson backpack fit snugly in the trunk. Having everything handled by the hotel allowed us to relax and enjoy the drive into the city, a perfect start to our stay in Bangkok.
Day 1 Itinerary: Chatuchak Weekend Market, Malls, and Jodd Fairs
Chatuchak Weekend Market
We kicked off our Bangkok adventure at Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the largest markets in the world. Accessible by BTS to Mo Chit Station, Chatuchak is an overwhelming but must-visit experience, covering 35 acres with over 15,000 stalls. The market has everything from handmade crafts and clothing to plants, home decor, and, of course, amazing street food. We dedicated a few hours to exploring the endless maze of stalls, making sure to sample as much as possible. We started with some fried snacks—crispy and savory bites that are a staple of Thai street food—then moved on to mango sticky rice, a perfect balance of sweet mango with creamy coconut rice. We also visited Sicha, a tea stall in Section 3, where we cooled off with a classic Thai milk tea. Sicha’s drinks are generously sized and served in a small seating area, making it a great rest stop amidst the market’s hustle and bustle.
Terminal 21
In the afternoon, we headed to Terminal 21 at Asok Station. Located in the lively Sukhumvit area, this unique shopping mall takes visitors on a “world tour,” with each floor themed after a different city, including Tokyo, London, and San Francisco. The decor makes wandering through the mall an experience in itself, with detailed, Instagram-worthy designs that mimic iconic landmarks from each location. While Terminal 21’s shops offer a range of items, from high-street brands to local boutiques, it’s worth noting that this mall isn’t as high-end as places like Siam Paragon or ICONSIAM, making it ideal for more budget-friendly shopping. We headed to the 5th-floor food court for lunch, where an array of affordable Thai dishes are available. We grabbed a Thai milk tea at Cha Tra Mue, a popular chain known for its signature teas and perfect for cooling down.
Siam Paragon
For a more upscale shopping experience, we visited Siam Paragon, accessible from BTS Siam Station. Siam Paragon is situated in Bangkok’s Pathum Wan district, part of the prestigious “Siam Square” area known for high-end shopping and dining. Spanning over 500,000 square meters, this massive mall features luxury brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, as well as attractions like SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World, one of the largest aquariums in Asia. We made our way to the mall’s food court, which operates on a token card system—preload a card with your budget, use it at the stalls, and refund any unused balance at the end. The food court has options from all over the world, but we focused on Thai dishes, specifically Khao Soi, a northern Thai specialty with egg noodles in a coconut curry broth, topped with crispy noodles, lime, and herbs. Each one was around THB 140, and we added fried sausage for an extra THB 90. The creamy broth and mix of textures made this dish a highlight. Before leaving, we visited the Gourmet Market on the ground floor, an upscale grocery store where you can find local delicacies and unique snacks perfect for gifts or souvenirs.
Jodd Fairs Night Market
Our day ended at Jodd Fairs, a lively night market located near Rama 9 MRT Station. To get there, we booked a Grab ride, which cost approximately 150–200 THB. The convenience of Grab made the journey quick and hassle-free.
Jodd Fairs has around 600 stalls, offering a modern twist on the traditional night market. You’ll find clothing, handcrafted goods, and plenty of food options to explore. We arrived early to beat the evening crowd and dove straight into the food section. The crispy pork cutlets were a standout—perfectly fried with a juicy interior. We also tried grilled meat skewers that were full of flavour and reasonably priced—a must-try for any visitor.
The market also has a dedicated seating area with a bar and live music, which added to the relaxed and fun atmosphere. Open daily from 4 PM to midnight, Jodd Fairs is the perfect place to wrap up your evening with great food, shopping, and a lively local vibe.
After exploring the market, we decided to take the train to Soi Cowboy, an infamous nightlife street in Bangkok. While the scene wasn’t our thing, we felt it was worth visiting to at least see it. We walked down it, then went home!
A walkthrough of Jodd Fairs Night Market in Bangkok
Day 2 Itinerary: Mahanakhon Skywalk, ICONSIAM, and Chinatown
Mahanakhon Skywalk
We started the day with a visit to the Mahanakhon Skywalk, one of Bangkok’s highest observation points and a must-see for anyone looking to experience the city from above. Located in the King Power Mahanakhon Building in Bangkok’s Silom district, and practically nextdoor to the W Bangkok, this stunning landmark is easy to reach via the BTS Skytrain—simply take the Silom Line to Chong Nonsi Station, and the building is just a short walk from there.
The Mahanakhon Skywalk offers a complete, 360-degree view of Bangkok from the 74th, 75th, and 78th floors. The main observation deck on the 74th floor provides an indoor viewing area with digital displays that help identify key landmarks in Bangkok. For the more adventurous, head up to the open-air Rooftop Sky Deck on the 78th floor. This level is home to the famous Glass Tray, a glass-floored platform where you can walk out and look directly down at the city below—a thrilling experience that’s not for the faint-hearted! We spent time enjoying the view, taking photos, and marveling at the contrast between Bangkok’s modern skyscrapers and the traditional temples that dot the cityscape.
Hours: 10 AM - midnight, with the last entry at 11 PM
Tickets: Available for purchase online or at the entrance. Prices vary depending on access to different floors, but expect to pay around THB 900.
ICONSIAM
After taking in the city’s views, we made our way to ICONSIAM, one of Bangkok’s newest and most luxurious shopping malls. ICONSIAM sits along the Chao Phraya River on the Thonburi side of the city and is easily accessible by taking the BTS Gold Line to Krung Thon Buri Station and using the shuttle boat that runs from Saphan Taksin Pier. This scenic boat ride gives you a unique view of Bangkok’s riverfront architecture before reaching the mall.
ICONSIAM is more than just a shopping center—it’s an experience. With over 500 shops, luxury boutiques, and an impressive dining scene, it’s one of Southeast Asia’s largest malls. The mall is divided into themed zones, including the SookSiam market on the ground floor, which recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Thai market with local delicacies, crafts, and street food from different regions of Thailand. Although we didn’t catch the evening show, ICONIC Multimedia Water Features is the longest fountain in Southeast Asia, with light and sound displays after dark.
During our visit, we discovered %Arabica, a well-known specialty coffee shop originating from Kyoto. Known for its minimalist design and carefully crafted espresso drinks, %Arabica serves high-quality coffee made with beans from around the world. The clean, airy space and strong coffee aroma make it a great stop to recharge in between exploring.
We also visited HOBS (House of Beers) on the sixth floor's Tasana Nakorn Terrace, which offers stunning views of the Chao Phraya River and Bangkok's skyline. It's worth noting that, due to local regulations, HOBS does not serve alcohol between 2 PM and 5 PM. So, if you're planning to enjoy their extensive beer selection, it's best to visit outside of these hours.
Hours: 10 AM - 10 PM daily
Tips: Visit in the late afternoon if you want to catch the fountain show and enjoy dinner by the river.
Chinatown (Yaowarat Road)
In the evening, we headed to Chinatown, one of Bangkok’s most colourful neighbourhoods and a haven for food lovers. Located along Yaowarat Road, Chinatown is best explored on foot to take in the sights, sounds, and incredible aromas of street food cooking all around you. To get there, you can take the MRT to Wat Mangkon Station, which brings you directly to the heart of Chinatown.
Chinatown can be busy and a bit overwhelming at first, especially with the crowds, neon signs, and seemingly endless food options. But don’t be intimidated—just dive in! We spent time wandering up and down Yaowarat, exploring the buzzing food stalls and trying to decide where to eat. Eventually, we settled into a corner restaurant, ordering a selection of dim sum and some other tasty dishes. While it’s easy to get caught up in the choices, our best tip is to try a few places if you can. Sample different dishes from a few spots, and don’t be afraid to grab bites from multiple locations.
Aside from food, Chinatown is also famous for its gold shops and traditional Chinese medicine stores, offering a unique blend of Thai and Chinese culture. The area is lively and colourful, especially in the evening, making it a memorable way to experience Bangkok’s food culture.
Hours: Most food stalls set up by 5 PM, but the area is lively throughout the day.
Tips: Bring cash, as most stalls do not accept cards, and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Day 3 Itinerary: Ruam Sab Market, Chinatown, Lebua, and Le Du
For this part of our adventure, we took inspiration from two of our favorite YouTube channels: @RetiredWorkingForYou and @OpalStoryOfficial, who both highlight hidden gems and local experiences in Thailand. Their videos gave us the idea to explore Ruam Saab market and Chinatown by day, and we weren’t disappointed!
Ruam Sab Market
We started Day 3 with a visit to Ruam Sab Market, a local favorite, especially among Bangkok’s office workers. Located near Asok BTS Station and Sukhumvit MRT Station, Ruam Sab Market is easily accessible from central Bangkok and offers an authentic, bustling atmosphere away from the usual tourist spots.
Arriving mid-morning to avoid the peak lunch crowd, we explored the market’s mix of food stalls, clothing vendors, and accessory shops. For breakfast, we grabbed pad kra pao—a spicy stir-fried basil dish served with rice and topped with a fried egg—a delicious and hearty way to start the day. We also loved the popular snack Kanom Krok - small, purple ube fried balls (like crispy, half-spherical bites) that were lightly sweet and satisfyingly chewy. These treats were a delightful surprise and were so good we went back for seconds!
Hours: Typically open from early morning until late afternoon, though busiest during lunch hours.
Tips: It’s cash-only, so come prepared with small bills, and arrive before noon if you want to avoid the peak lunch crowd.
Chinatown (Daytime)
After Ruam Sab, we headed back to Chinatown to experience its rich cultural and culinary offerings during the day. Exploring Yaowarat Road and its side streets in the daytime provides a quieter, more laid-back view of this historic neighbourhood, where you can take your time discovering unique shops, stalls, and food spots.
Our first food stop was Rong Klan Nuea, a charming eatery set in a traditional Thai-style house, which gives the place a nostalgic, authentic feel. Known for its focus on beef dishes, Rong Klan Nuea has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike who want to taste expertly prepared Thai beef. The restaurant’s specialty is beef noodles, where tender, slow-cooked beef is served in a rich, flavourful broth with fresh herbs and spices. The dish is comforting, aromatic, and embodies the deep, savory flavors of Thai beef cuisine. We had the Emperor (Huge) braised beef broth and added Pa Tong, or fried dough, which came to around THB290 in total.
Finding Rong Klan Nuea, however, proved to be a bit of an adventure. Even with Google Maps, the small, unassuming entrance was hard to spot, and we walked past it a few times before finally locating it. But once inside, the cozy atmosphere and the opportunity to experience traditional Thai cooking in such a unique setting made it well worth the effort. It truly felt like stepping back in time.
Next, we stopped at Gu Long Bao Artisan Bun Shop to try their famous bao. This small, charming shop specialises in handmade buns with a variety of fillings, each crafted with care. We tried the classic pork bao, which was fluffy and perfectly filled with savory pork—an ideal snack while exploring Chinatown’s bustling streets. The buns cost around THB 26 each.
We finished our visit to Chinatown with a coffee break at Woodbrook. This cozy coffee shop is a bit of a hidden gem in Chinatown, known for its modern, minimalist decor and specialty coffee. Woodbrook’s menu includes expertly crafted espresso drinks, cold brews, and pour-overs, all served in a calm, relaxing atmosphere. One of its highlights is the outdoor seating area overlooking the river, where you can lounge on cozy beanbags and unwind while enjoying the view. The shop offers a perfect respite from the busy streets outside and a great spot to recharge before heading out again. We had the Brook Mountain Coffee with cookies, and Sky Dirty Coffee with milk and espresso, each costing around THB 300.
Hours: Shops and stalls are generally open from 10 AM until the early evening.
Tips: Chinatown is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and bring cash for any purchases. Try a variety of spots, and don’t hesitate to grab snacks and drinks from different places to get a full taste of Chinatown’s culinary diversity.
Sky Bar at Lebua
In the early evening, we made our way to Sky Bar at Lebua for drinks and a stunning view over Bangkok. Located on the 63rd floor of the Lebua at State Tower, Sky Bar is one of the world’s highest open-air bars and was made famous by its appearance in The Hangover Part II. It’s a quick trip by BTS to Saphan Taksin Station, followed by a short taxi ride to the tower.
The bar opens at 5 PM, and we arrived early to get a good spot before sunset. The view from Sky Bar is breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the Chao Phraya River and the Bangkok skyline as it transforms with the evening lights. Drinks here are pricey - over THB 1000 each - but the experience and ambiance make it worth it. We sipped on their signature cocktails, enjoying the luxurious setting and watching the city light up as night fell.
Hours: 5 PM - 1 AM
Tips: Sky Bar has a strict dress code—no shorts, flip-flops, or sleeveless shirts—so be sure to dress smart-casual. Arriving early will help you secure a good spot for sunset.
Le Du Restaurant
To end the day, we had dinner at Le Du, one of Bangkok’s celebrated fine dining establishments. Located in the Silom area and easily reachable by BTS, Le Du offers a seasonal, modern Thai menu that has garnered international acclaim. Holding a Michelin star, the restaurant is known for reinterpreting traditional Thai flavors with creativity and finesse, using locally sourced ingredients in innovative ways.
We opted for the tasting menu, a journey through Thai flavors with refined presentations and unique combinations. The experience began with a fresh starter of snapper paired with tangy tomato, earthy fermented bean, and floral chrysanthemum—a beautifully balanced dish to awaken the palate. Another standout was Khao Chae, a light and aromatic dish of jasmine rice with pork and shrimp, perfect as a refreshing interlude in the menu.
As the courses progressed, we encountered a memorable and adventurous dish featuring ant larvae. Combined with herbs and spices, this delicacy offered a unique taste of Thai culinary tradition, adding an unexpected element to our meal. The tiger prawn course, paired with ginger torch flowers, added a hint of spice and floral aroma that complemented the prawn’s natural sweetness. The Thai Wagyu was another highlight, served with tamarind and cha-om, bringing a rich, tangy, and herbal depth to the tender beef.
Dessert was a creative twist on the classic mango sticky rice, this time served with dried fish, adding a surprising savory note to the sweet mango. For those looking to enhance the experience further, a Signature River Prawn add-on was available, showcasing the freshness of local produce.
The tasting menu at Le Du was thoughtfully curated, with each dish presented as a work of art. The combination of bold Thai flavours, unexpected ingredients, and contemporary techniques made this meal an unforgettable dining experience in Bangkok. It was an expensive night though - for the experience, we paid nearly THB 20,000, which included the tasting menu for us both, two bottles of champagne, and tips. While pricey, it was a truly special evening that combined impeccable food, exceptional service, and a touch of adventure.
Hours: Dinner service is available from 6 PM onwards; reservations are highly recommended.
Tips: Le Du’s tasting menu changes seasonally, so check their website for the latest offerings. Book well in advance, as the restaurant is popular with both locals and international visitors.
That wraps up our time in Bangkok. The journey continued in Koh Samui - check out the link to read more.