Thai cooking balances sour, salt, sweet and heat in every dish. Ask for the kitchen's own level of spice rather than the tourist setting if you want it as intended.
In Bangkok the Thai list is led by Sorn in Sukhumvit (Two MICHELIN Stars, THB 6,000-8,000 | USD 165-220 per person). If you want the same cooking for less, Baan at THB 800-1,500 | USD 22-40 is the value pick.
- 1.
Sorn
Two MICHELIN StarsSouthern Thai · Sukhumvit · THB 6,000-8,000 | USD 165-220
Supaksorn Jongsiri
Sorn masterfully elevates the intricate, spice-rich flavors of Southern Thai cuisine using rare, seasonal ingredients sourced from across Thailand. The elegant setting complements a deeply personal culinary narrative, presented through a multi-course tasting menu that is both authentic and refined. It's an immersive dive into regional Thai gastronomy.
Order: Gaeng Prik Si Krong Moo (Southern-style pork ribs curry), Kua Kling (dry curry)
- 2.
Le Du
One MICHELIN StarModern Thai · Silom · THB 4,500-6,000 | USD 125-165
Thitid 'Ton' Tassanakajohn
Le Du, meaning 'season' in Thai, perfectly encapsulates Chef Ton's philosophy of seasonality and local sourcing. His innovative approach reinterprets classic Thai flavors with sophisticated Western techniques, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and surprisingly new. The sleek, contemporary dining room provides an ideal backdrop for this culinary evolution.
Order: Khao Klook Ga Pi (Shrimp Paste Rice), River Prawn with Organic Rice Risotto
- 3.
Nusara
One MICHELIN StarRefined Thai · Tha Tian · THB 4,500-6,000 | USD 125-165
Thitid 'Ton' Tassanakajohn
Nusara offers a deeply personal and exquisite journey into refined Thai cuisine, inspired by Chef Ton's grandmother. Set in an intimate shophouse near Wat Pho, the tasting menu features intricate, balanced flavors using exceptional ingredients, focusing on age-old recipes elevated with contemporary finesse. It's a tribute to heritage through meticulous cooking.
Order: Crab Curry, Pomelo Salad
- 4.
Baan
Bib GourmandTraditional Thai · Sukhumvit · THB 800-1,500 | USD 22-40
Thitid 'Ton' Tassanakajohn
Baan, meaning 'home' in Thai, offers authentic, homestyle Thai cuisine crafted from family recipes. Chef Ton's second venture focuses on sharing generous, flavorful dishes made with organic, locally sourced ingredients. The relaxed, inviting atmosphere makes it perfect for experiencing genuine Thai hospitality and traditional cooking in a comfortable setting.
Order: Gaeng Kiew Wan Nuea (Green Curry with Beef), Moo Hong (Braised Pork Belly)
Booking a Thai table in Bangkok
- · For two- and three-starred restaurants, book 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend evenings. Many require a non-refundable deposit or full pre-payment to secure your table.
- · Consider booking a weekday lunch menu at starred restaurants; they often offer a more accessible price point and can be easier to reserve than dinner services, without compromising quality.
- · Be aware of strict cancellation policies. Most top establishments require 48-72 hours notice for cancellations or changes, otherwise, your deposit or full payment may be forfeited.
- · While not always mandatory, confirming your reservation a few days prior is good practice. Many restaurants will send a reminder, but a quick call ensures no miscommunication.
And the local dishes in Bangkok
Pad Thai
Thailand's iconic stir-fried noodle dish, featuring rice noodles, shrimp or chicken, tofu, peanuts, bean sprouts, and a tamarind-based sauce. It's a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. Find excellent versions at street stalls throughout the city or at renowned spots like Thip Samai Pad Thai.
Tom Yum Goong
A classic hot and sour shrimp soup, fragrant with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and fresh chili. This intensely flavorful and spicy broth is a staple of Thai cuisine and a must-try for those who enjoy bold flavors. It's often enjoyed with rice.
Massaman Curry
A rich, relatively mild, and often sweet Thai curry with Persian influences. Typically made with coconut milk, roasted peanuts, potatoes, onions, and slow-cooked meat, usually beef or chicken. Its complex aromatic spices provide a comforting and deeply satisfying flavor profile.
Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)
A refreshing and fiery salad made from shredded green papaya, chilies, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, and often peanuts and dried shrimp. It's a vibrant explosion of sour, spicy, sweet, and salty flavors, particularly popular in the Northeastern (Isaan) region of Thailand. Best eaten fresh.
Seven days in Bangkok
Pair these Thai tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the Bangkok travel guide