Top 5 Restaurants and Their Iconic Dishes in Bangkok
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Thailand, known as a “gastronomic paradise” in Southeast Asia, is a destination for many food enthusiasts from around the world. The capital of Thailand, Bangkok, offers the opportunity to enjoy all the country’s traditional dishes, as well as numerous delicious dishes from other countries such as Vietnam, China, Japan, India, and European nations.
Bangkok offers everything from traditional street food to high-end Michelin-starred dining. Here is a selection of five of the city’s most famous restaurants and their signature dishes.
1. Sorn (2 Michelin Stars)
Sorn
Sorn is world-renowned for its creative cuisine. Its menu includes 22 different dishes, primarily featuring seafood such as crab, seaweed, Phuket lobster, and local fish. Ingredients are sourced from local farmers and fishermen in southern Thailand.
The food is not only fresh but also beautifully presented. The luxurious and sophisticated setting adds to its appeal. Due to the outstanding menu, ambiance, and professional service, Sorn is one of the most difficult restaurants to book in Bangkok.
Signature Dish: Khao Uum — a traditional southern Thai rice salad served with an artistic arrangement of ingredients: jasmine rice, torch ginger flowers, lemongrass, wing beans, toasted coconut, and more, complemented by an aromatic fish dressing.
Khao Uum
2. Le Du (1 Michelin Star)
Le Du
“Le Du” means “season” in Thai. The restaurant uses Thai-grown ingredients and spices, such as tomatoes and vegetables from Chiang Mai, seabass from the south, and prawns from the southwest. Le Du embodies the essence of Thai cuisine, deserving its Michelin star. It’s an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner.
Signature Dish: Khao Kluk Kapi with River Prawn — organic black rice prepared like risotto with shrimp, served with traditional condiments like sweet pork jam, shallots, green mango, chilies, and more.
Khao Kluk Kapi with River Prawn
3. Thip Samai Pad Thai
Thip Samai Pad Thai
One of Bangkok’s most famous spots for delicious Pad Thai. While the basic dish contains noodles, eggs, shrimp, and vegetables, Thip Samai elevates it with a unique and balanced flavor presented with artistic care. Their secret recipes add extra charm.
You can even buy their special sauces to recreate their classic Pad Thai at home, including shrimp oil and vegetarian versions. Known as the birthplace of Bangkok’s most famous dish, Thip Samai has nearly 50 years of history.
Signature Dish: Pad Thai — made with dry “sen chan” noodles from Chantaburi, homemade shrimp oil, and traditional technique.
Pad Thai
4. Blue Elephant Restaurant
Blue Elephant Restaurant
If you dream of dining in a traditional Thai atmosphere with servers in authentic Thai costumes, welcome to Blue Elephant! The restaurant offers a variety of authentic and modern Thai dishes prepared by some of Thailand’s best chefs. Expect a delicious, varied, colorful, and sophisticated menu.
Signature Dish: Massaman Lamb — Australian lamb slow-cooked in coconut milk, Massaman curry paste, tamarind juice, palm sugar, sweet purple potato, and toasted nuts.
Massaman Lamb
5. Aksorn (1 Michelin Star)
Aksorn
Aksorn celebrates Thai culture and heritage, with a menu inspired by cookbooks and historical archives. Their offerings include delectable American steak, tender prawns, and surprising salads. One of the most popular aspects is their fine wine selection. If you have the chance to visit Bangkok, Aksorn should be on your list.
Signature Dish: Smoked Kingfish Relish with Wild Ginger — kingfish cooked with subtle but deep smoky flavors, combined with wild ginger for a spicy‑herbal aroma, served with fresh vegetables to balance the dish.
Smoked Kingfish Relish with Wild Ginger
Thai gastronomy is diverse, ranging from traditional local dishes to international cuisine. Bangkok is undoubtedly a perfect destination for passionate food travelers. Whether you want street food, Michelin-starred dining, or luxurious restaurants specializing in Thai and global cuisine, Bangkok offers endless options.
