Bangkok’s food culture, while always a riot of options, flavours, and colors, went for many years relatively unchanged. But in the early 2010’s, as chefs returned from studying abroad, they began to create a new food scene, often importing European dishes and techniques to the Thai capital. Now, that trend of Thai chefs cooking western dishes is changing, as chefs like Bo Songvisava reappropriate Thai cuisine for the modern age, boldly innovating while staying true to its superb heritage.
Eat
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the diversity of Bangkok’s dining options. From the street food stalls of Chinatown and Rattanakosin to the city’s semi-open-air, shophouse, and fine dining restaurants, and even it’s shopping mall food courts, there’s no lack of kitchens where you can taste that famous balance of robust flavors that is Thai cuisine.
Drink
Bangkok’s nightlife is the stuff of legend, and much of what makes it special is centered around the Chinatown area, where you can sample high-end gin bars or catch a view of the Chao Phraya River from
one of the area’s elegant rooftop bars. But if you’re looking to clink glasses at the top of a skyscraper, just make sure you meet the dress code.
Experience
The neon-lit allure of Bangkok at night, with its bustling streets and tiny alleyways hiding some of the city’s best food, is an experience not to be missed. During the weekend, ditch the tourist traps and get lost shopping your way around the 15,000 stalls of Chatuchak, the world’s largest weekend market.
