The 10 Best Restaurants of Thailand

Thailand is known as the land of smiles and it’s not hard to see why. It is a country full of diverse culture, beautiful beaches, and culinary delights. The food is colorful, flavorful, and the mix of spices, aromas, and flavors is simply amazing. Among the things that Thailand is famous for, food takes the top spot, and it’s hard to find a Thai dish that isn’t mouth-watering.

If you’re a foodie, or just looking to try some exotic and tasty local cuisine, then Thailand is the place to be. From street food stalls to fancy restaurants, there’s no shortage of dining options in this country. Brace yourself and be ready to indulge in a variety of spicy, sweet, and tangy dishes that will leave you craving for more.

So, without further ado, here are the 10 best restaurants in Thailand that should be on your bucket list.

1. Gaggan, Bangkok

Gaggan is a famous Indian restaurant located in Bangkok, headed by Gaggan Anand who is widely acclaimed for his inventive style of cooking. This popular establishment which has won 2 Michelin stars, has been awarded ‘Asia’s Best Restaurant’ four times. It’s a fine dining restaurant that serves a set menu with each dish that revolutionizes Indian cuisine.

2. Le Normandie, Bangkok

This elegant restaurant is located in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok and offers luxurious dining with views of the Chao Phraya River. It’s considered one of the best French restaurants in Bangkok and is known for its top-notch service, elegant setting, and exquisite French cuisine.

3. Nahm, Bangkok

Nahm is located in the Metropolitan Hotel in Bangkok and is renowned for its traditional Thai dishes. The restaurant is run by David Thompson, who is known for his meticulous research on Thai cuisine. The menu is an amalgamation of traditional Thai flavors and contemporary European touches, making it a unique culinary experience.

4. Sorn, Bangkok

Sorn is a fine dining restaurant located in Bangkok that offers a unique taste of Southern Thai cuisine. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients and follows age-old cooking techniques to serve up traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist.

5. Bo.lan, Bangkok

Bo.lan is located in Sukhumvit and is famous for its traditional Thai dishes. The restaurant serves organic food that is sourced from local farmers, and the dishes are cooked in a way that preserves the original flavors of the ingredients.

6. Eat Me, Bangkok

Eat Me is a unique restaurant in Bangkok that offers a mix of Asian and Western flavors. The restaurant showcases the best of Bangkok’s art scene, with a gallery of contemporary pieces on display. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the food is simply delicious.

7. La Table de Tee, Chiang Mai

Located in Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand, La Table de Tee is a French-style restaurant that offers some of the best fusion dishes in the city. The restaurant offers a mix of Thai and French cuisine, and the dishes are made with locally sourced ingredients.

8. Suay, Phuket

Suay is an innovative restaurant located in Phuket that offers modern Asian cuisine with a Western twist. The restaurant is known for its contemporary décor and ambiance, and the dishes are an explosion of flavors and textures.

9. The Black Crab, Phuket

The Black Crab is a seafood restaurant located in Phuket that offers some of the most varied and fresh seafood in the city. The restaurant boasts a beautiful setting by the beach and offers an extensive menu of both local and international seafood delicacies.

10. Krua Apsorn, Bangkok

This restaurant is located in the heart of Bangkok and offers traditional Thai cuisine in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. It is a favorite amongst locals and offers signature dishes such as stir-fried crab with curry powder and fried pork belly with garlic.

In conclusion, Thailand’s cuisine is second to none, and the country is home to some of the most captivating restaurants in the world. The restaurants listed above are just the tip of the iceberg, and there are more hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From street food vendors to fine dining restaurants, Thailand offers a culinary adventure like no other. So, pack your bags and plan your visit to this gastronomic paradise.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, a hidden gem nestled in the north of Thailand, is a city that radiates spirituality, culture, and culinary delights. The ancient city is surrounded by lush mountains and temples and offers numerous off-the-beaten-path experiences that most tourists miss.

Local Attractions: More Than Just Tourist Spots

While popular tourist spots like the Doi Suthep temple and the Sunday Walking Street should not be overlooked, Chiang Mai has several lesser-known attractions that only locals know about. The Hidden Village, for instance, is an excellent cultural destination that enables visitors to learn about the Lanna culture and craftsmanship, from weaving silk scarfs and bamboo basketry to wooden carving. Moreover, the lesser-known Sticky Waterfall, a natural wonder located only 50 kilometers from the town, enables visitors to climb the limestone rocks while water flows all around them.

Dining Spots: Discover Chiang Mai’s Unique Food Culture

Chiang Mai’s food culture is tantalizingly diverse, with a blend of northern Thai cuisine, Chinese influences, and traditional Lanna dishes. The city is known for its signature dish, Khao Soi, a curried noodle soup that combines crispy and soft noodles, chicken, coconut cream, and spicy chili notes. Some of the well-known restaurants serving Khao Soi are Khao Soi Lam Duan Fah Ham, Khao Soi Khun Yai, and Khao Soi Islam. To indulge in a range of Lanna dishes, head to SP chicken, known for its crispy fried chicken, sausages, and laab(khao tod), a spicy minced meat dish.

Cultural Experiences: Get Immersed in Traditions and Customs

Apart from the traditional dancing and Muay Thai, Chiang Mai showcases its cultural richness through Songkran and Loy Krathong, which are celebrated with great pomp and show. Songkran, which refers to the Thai New Year, is celebrated in mid-April and sees the city come alive with water fights and parties. Loy Krathong, on the other hand, is celebrated during the full moon of November, and people place lanterns and small boats into the river to pray for good fortune.

Furthermore, Chiang Mai is known for its silence and spiritual retreats, with numerous wellness centers and meditation centers offering yoga, massage, and mindfulness workshops, such as The Pavana, Karma Yoga, and Mala Dhara Eco Resort.

Local History: The Captivating Stories You Need to Hear

Chiang Mai’s history dates back to the 13th century, with the founding of the Lanna Kingdom. Legend has it that in 1296, King Mengrai built the city after he saw a magical white deer chasing a butterfly. The city was also a popular trade route, with traders coming from as far as China and India to trade. One fascinating bit of history is that the wall that surrounds the old city and measures 1.6 kilometers long, was built to fend off the Burmese armies.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

One of the best ways to experience Chiang Mai’s culture is by embarking on a cycling tour or hiking expedition to explore the nearby villages and temples. Additionally, renting a motorbike and driving an hour to visit the Mae Ngat Dam will be an enchanting experience, satiating your quest for adventure while learning about traditional agriculture and the Mae Taeng community.

With its rich culture, impressive architecture, and flavorful cuisine, Chiang Mai is an enchanting city with surprising hidden gems. It is no wonder that it is called the “Rose of North Thailand” and promises a memorable trip for any traveler.