Returning for the third year in a row, Chang Sensory Trails—the annual Thai food festival organised by Thailand’s award-winning beer, Chang—lands back in Singapore after a world tour in London and Los Angeles to bring a weekend that celebrates everything we love about Thai cuisine and culture through the culmination of Singapore’s finest Thai restaurants, art, music and not forgetting, refreshing Chang beer.

Chang Sensory Trails is the perfect festival for all Thai food lovers to experience and savour different varieties and sample different styles of Thai cuisine. Celebrating the delicacy and diversity of Thai cuisine, this year’s edition of Chang Sensory Trails features 24 signature dishes by eight Singapore-based Thai restaurants.

At the event, the chefs vow to serve nothing but authentic flavours of Thailand—delving deep into the country’s rich culinary heritage and exploring both Northern and Southern cuisine instead of just your usual tom yum and green curry.

From the 31 August to 01 September 2018, 4pm to 10pm, expect nothing but the best of authentic Thai home recipes done by eight Singapore-based Thai restaurants. Are you ready?!

With a focus on Thai home recipes this year, the festival aims to share with the world the Thai philosophy of Lamiat through food. Lamiat means paying attention to detail and looking beyond the ordinary in order to appreciate the small things that refine and produce perfection.

With Thai cuisine demonstrating the purest expression of Lamiat through its use of different herbs, spices and fresh ingredients, Chang and the featuring Thai chefs and restaurants strive to bring the real and natural flavours of Thailand to its international audience.

AROY DEE

A definite must try on the list is their Thai Style Prime Ribs with Aroydee Signature Sauce. Their prime rib is huge and juicy with a crisp and satisfying bite to it. Not to be missed are also their Stir-Fried Soft Shell Crab With Chilli And Garlic and their Green Mango Salad.

BAAN YING

Serving up a stellar repertoire of tasty dishes that stem from Northeastern Thailand’s Isaan cuisine, Baan Ying is one that delves away from your typical Thai fare. They offer a twist on a classic with their Dry Tom Yum Goong Noodles with Lava Egg as well as their finger-licking-good Hai Yat Fried Chicken with Sticky Rice.

BANGKOK JAM

Bangkok Jam strikes familiar chords with all of us and for a good reason too. At the event, indulge in their Thai Style Fish & Chips that are served with crispy fries, tom yum aioli as well as their Grilled Australian steak paired with papaya salad and pandan sticky rice. There’s no need to be jealous of what others are having when you finish your meal off with their Green with Envy Snow Ice.

GIN KHAO

As if fried rice in a pineapple didn’t seem interesting enough, Gin Khao serves Watermelon Fried Rice in, well, a watermelon. Loaded with ingredients, it makes for the perfect main alongside their Tom Yum Spam Fries and their Salted Egg Fish Skin.

LITTLE ELEPHANT

Serving up succulent morsels of pork, Little Elephant’s Kor Moo Yang(Grilled Pork Neck) is sure to have you salivating while they plate up your orders for you. If that’s not enough, order their Nam Tok Kor Moo Yang (Grilled Pork Neck Salad) and Stir Fry Sliced Beef with Holy Basil, they’re sure to leave you satisfied.

LONG CHIM

Sticking to mainly rice mains, Long Chim offers dishes such as Grilled Pork Skewers with Sticky Rice, Spicy Pork with Rice Cakes as well as Deep Fried Wings with Sticky Rice.

TAMARIND HILL

Tamarind Hill is serving up Deep-fried Prawns with Crispy Noodles, reminiscent of our favourite bamee noodles, but better. Top it off with their Mango Sticky Rice and Taro Fritters for the most indulgent meal ever.

UNYANG KORDAI

Their Grilled Khao Yai Chicken is their signature grilled chicken, marinated with coriander and white peppercorns which goes well with their Glutinous Brown Rice. As to what to end your meal with, perhaps their Thai Milk Tea Pudding would be the answer.

AND THERE’S MORE!

Treat not just your taste buds at Chang Sensory Trails. Adding to the multisensory experience, illustrations by GalactikCaptain from the local collective Band of Doodlers can be found adorning the facades of the food booths, decorating the tabletops as well as all over the Chang Sensory Trails’ photo wall.

Be entertained by musical acts from local bands O.K Ready! on the 31st of August and 53A on the 1st of September while you enjoy all your Thai culinary favourites—not forgetting crazy amounts of Chang beer as well. This is going to be an event to remember so you best round up best pals quick!

Chang Sensory Trails 2018
The Lawn at Marina Bay
8A Marina Boulevard
Singapore 018984
31 Aug 2018 (Fri) to 1 Sep 2018 (Sat)
4pm – 10pm
Website: www.changbeer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/changbeersg
Instagram: @changbeerglobal
Nearest Station: Downtown

This post was brought to you by Chang Beer.

What used to be a rundown riverside warehouse has since transformed into a rustic industrial-themed Thai restaurant called “The Never Ending Summer” under the hands of local architect Duangrit Bunnag and partner Naree Boonyakiat.

Boasting an elegant vibe, the classy restaurant’s hip clientele consists mainly of young professionals, fashionable youths and tourists. At the same time, the addition of greens hanging around the restaurant makes it a welcoming interior.

You can expect beautifully plated dishes at The Never Ending Summer to be a feast for both your eyes and taste buds—the dining experience there is certainly well-deserving of an encore.

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The modern industrial interior features concrete walls, aged red brick walls, vintage lamps and teak timber furniture. The large seating also provides ample space for those who are visiting in groups to sit together without having to squeeze with others.

At the back of the restaurant, you will notice an open concept kitchen where you can watch the chefs live in action through a polished glass partition.

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It is impossible not to find something that would suit your preference there as The Never Ending Summer’s menu is more than 15 pages long. We recommend trying their local Thai dishes as every dish we ordered was mouth-watering and deserving of high praises.

Ko Mu Yang (THB390/S$16.04) is an excellent grilled Kurobuta pork collar dish that was masterfully executed. Not only was the meat juicy, it came with the right proportion of fats and lean meat. Dip it into the sauces given at the side for a spicy kick.

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Another star dish we have to give special mention to is the Pla Yang (THB390/S$16.04). The grilled barramundi filets are covered with turmeric paste and topped off with crispy fried garlic.

The soft barramundi meat was incredibly delicious; all the distinct flavours from the turmeric marinade and fried garlic bits combined together was like a wild party in our mouths.

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If you are looking for something more filling, why not try their Khao Pad Gaag Muu (THB240/S$9.87)? It is essentially pork crackling fried rice and the generous portion makes it great for sharing among your dining companions.

You can choose to mix all the ingredients together and have it in one bite or try them separately.

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We are definitely not leaving out the Peek Gai (THB190/S$7.82) in this review too! The fried chicken wings may look nothing extraordinary but it was one of the best chicken wings we tried—there was a perfect balance between both sweet and savoury tones in the marinade.

The Never Ending Summer
41/5 Charoen Nakorn
Khlong San
Bangkok, Thailand
Tel: +66 02 861 0953
Daily: 11am – 11pm
Nearest BTS: Saphan Taksin

For more recommendations, read our guide on the best Thai restaurants in Bangkok.

Bangkok is a foodie’s heaven. There are so many good restaurants and eateries to spoil you silly, and even if you go to three per day, it would take you quite a while to tick off all the best ones from your bucket list!

It is not only the Land of All Smiles; it is the Land of Exciting Food. Thai food is colourful and very varied in tastes. Though mostly spicy and very kick-ass, Thai food is generally very flavourful and satisfying. We never say no to a good Thai meal, especially when we are at Bangkok.

No amount of trips to the city will ever get us sick of Thai food. And we are pretty sure we aren’t the only ones feeling this way. You love your Thai food too. Yes, you. We know. Here, go on and indulge in many good meals with our guide to Bangkok’s Best Thai Restaurants.

#1 BAAN YING CAFE & MEAL

This popular Thai restaurant has been around in Siam Square for many years, but the original outlet was destroyed in a fire back in 2010. It reopened with two new locations at Siam Kitty Building and Siam Center.

The Baan Ying Classics include Deep Fried Pork Belly in Fish Sauce (THB 95), Green Curry Chicken Served with Roti (THB 110), and Calamari Fried with Chilli and Salt (THB 160).

4/F, Siam Center
Rama 1 Road Bangkok
Tel: +65 2 658 1533
Daily: 10am – 9pm
Nearest Station: Siam

#2 INTER RESTAURANT

A perennial favourite in Bangkok is Inter Restaurant at Siam Square Soi 9. Whenever we are at the Land of Smiles, we will find ourselves returning to this humble eatery for a meal or two. Or more.

Well, don’t expect a lavish interior nor impeccable service. Inter is completely opposite. It is unpretentious, the space is simple and sufficient but nothing fancy to boast, the staff are not the friendliest. But we love it oh-so-deeply because the kitchen whips up terrific Thai dishes at super affordable prices that range from THB 65 to THB 120.

Siam Square Soi 9
Tel: +66 2 251 4689
Nearest Station: Siam

#3 KRUA APSORN

Krua Apsorn is quite possibly the best traditional Thai restaurant in Bangkok. It serves simple but super delicious Thai food at pocket-friendly prices, and it is somewhere that only locals and foodies in-the-know head to.

The signature Stir-Fried Crab in Curry Powder (THB 350) is one of the best that we’ve had and a must-order when you dining here. We also enjoyed the Omelette with Crab, Stir-fried Green Mussels with basil Leaves and Chilli, and Deep-fried Mackerel with Mango Salad.

Krua Apson has a few branches in the city, but go to its original shop at Samsen Soi 9 – located just north of the National Library in the old town of Bangkok. If it was located near Siam or Sukhumvit, we would dine here every day.

Samsen Road
Samsen 1 Alley, Wat Sam Phraya
Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Tel: +66 2 668 8788
Mon to Sat: 10.30am – 7.30pm

#4 LEK SEAFOOD

This no-frills roadside eatery is located just underneath Chong Nonsi BTS, and serves cheap and mouthwatering seafood. We had Garlic Prawns, Steamed Fish in Lime Sauce, Stir-fried Pork with Chilli Sauce, Thai-style Omelette, Stir-fried Kale, Stir-fried Morning Glory, Salted Egg yolk Squid – everything was to die for.

When you need a slice of cake in between that crazy retail therapy, or a spot to grab your daily coffee, or a cosy space to have a meal at, this Guide to Bangkok’s Best Cafes will take you through.

The food is just as good, if not even better, than the famous T&K Seafood in Chinatown. But if we had to choose between them, we’d pick Lek Seafood because it is much more accessible. Less touristy too, of course.

156 Soi Phiphat
Narathiwat Ratchanakharin Road
Tel: +66 2 636 6054
Nearest BTS: Chong Nonsi

#5 NARA THAI RESTAURANT

Known for its Kuay Tiew Rua (Ayuthaya Boat Noodles), Nara Thai Cuisine is a place where you can enjoy authentic Thai dishes in a comfortable and clean setting. Prices are slightly steeper – from THB 180 for Pad Thai to THB 330 for a Tom Yum Kung – than the usual restaurants, but what you get in return is classic Thai dishes that will never go wrong.

5F Central Embassy
Tel: +66 2 160 5988 9
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Phloen Chit

#6 SOM TAM NUA

A craving for som tam (Thai papaya salad) can be easily satisfied at Som Tam Nua – a popular restaurant frequented by tourists and locals. The long lines during meal times are the best testament to its popularity.

This eatery in Siam Square Soi 5 specialises in Thai Issan food. The food here is very spicy, and definitely not for the faint-hearted. But a meal here will be unforgettable with that myriad of flavours.

392/14 Siam Square Soi 5
Tel: +66 2 251 4880
Daily: 10.45am – 9.30pm
Nearest Station: Siam

#7 SOUL FOOD MAHANAKORN

A darling of the media, Soul Food Mahanakorn has been widely recommended all across traditional and digital publications. It was started by a former food writer and the motto is to serve authentic regional Thai street food in a comfortable and trendy setting.

Prices range from THB 200 to THB 300, and it includes a selection of drinking snacks, Thai salads, meats, curries and seafood dishes.

56/10 Soi Thonglor
Sukhumvit 55 Road
Tel: +66 2 714 7708
Sun to Thu: 6pm – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 6pm – 12 midnight
Nearest Station: Thonglo

#8 SUPANNIGA EATING ROOM

Good restaurants are aplenty in Thonglor, but Supanniga Eating Room stands out for delivering honest and reliable Thai food prepared using the owner’s grandmother recipes.

Supanniaga Eating Room has a few things going for it: the restaurant is not fanciful, you get to dine in a comfortable and relaxed setting; the prices – while it is not the cheapest Thai restaurant in Bangkok – are still reasonably priced for the quality; and most importantly, the Thai dishes are cooked to a high standard

160/11 Sukhumvit Soi 55
Thonglor
Daily: 11.30am 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11.30pm
Nearest Station: Thonglo

#9 TALING PLING

Taling Pling started with the original outlet on Pan Road in Silom, and it has since opened three branches in Paragon, Central Rama 3 and CentralWorld. Even though the new outlets are all located in shopping malls, Taling Pling continues to serve its regulars – a mixture of locals and tourists – with a great variety of Thai classic dishes (prices range from THB 120 – THB 200).

Taling Pling (Paragon), Room G30
G/F, Siam Paragon
991 Rama 1 Road
Tel: +66 2 129 4353
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest Station: Siam

#10 T&K Seafood

Perhaps the most famous restaurant in Yaowarat (Chinatown), T&K Seafood cooks for a legion of customers who wait patiently in line for a table. Of course, it looks just like any other seafood restaurant/ eatery along Chinatown, but T&K is very popular for many reasons.

The menu is comprehensive, they use simple but really fresh ingredients, prices are most definitely competitive and the service is very prompt (albeit unfriendly staff). A meal here is ideal when you are with a big group; just order a table full of seafood dishes and pig out!

49-51 Soi Phadung Dao
Yaowarat Road
Tel: +66 2 223 4519
Daily: 6pm – 10pm

#11 THE LOCAL

Housed in a huge hundred-year-old building in Asoke, The Local by Oam Thong Thai Cuisine is a posh Thai restaurant that dishes out an array of Thai specialities made from its secret family recipe handed down over generations. Enter the building and you will find yourself in a small antique museum and a silk shop which curates a selection of the finest Thai silk products.

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The recommended dishes include Southern Style Fish Curry (BHT 250), Pork with Thai Herbs and Shrimp Paste (THB 240), Spicy Yellow Curry with Fish Coconut Milk (BHT 250), and Massaman Curry with Beef (THB 300).

While The Local caters more to expats (affectionally known as farang) and affluent locals, it is still worth a visit for the complete dining experience.

32-32/1 Sukumvit 23
Klong Toey Nue, Wattana
Tel: +66 2 664 0664
Daily: 11.30am – 2.30pm, 5.30pm – 11pm
Nearest Station: Asoke

#12 WHITE FLOWER FACTORY

The original White Flower Cafe & Bakery is located at Thanon Bamrung Maung, which is slightly inaccessible to get to. Naturally, we were thrilled to learn that they have a new place in Siam Square One.

Lavishly furnished with wood and flowers and low-hanging lights, the White Flower Factory is a European-styled cafe that serves both Western and Thai dishes. It is evident that the locals love it here, and we’d say ditch the Western menu. Do it like the Thais, and indulge in a Thai feast of curries and stir-fry classics.

It is impressive that the restaurant is still mostly packed with locals despite its location in a tourists-filled shopping mall. Speaks volume of how good the food is!

Siam SQ1 4th Floor
Tel: +66 2 225 4749
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Siam

Read our Bangkok food and travel guides for more recommendations.

Krua Apsorn is somewhere that only locals and foodies in-the-know head to. It serves simple but supremely delicious Thai food at pocket-friendly prices. If you haven’t been there before, mark it down in your itinerary, for the next time you are in Bangkok, you know you will be in for a treat at Krua Apsorn.

The signature Stir-fried Crab in Curry Powder (THB 400) is one of the best stir-fried crab dishes that we’ve had in Thailand, and definitely a must-order when dining at Krua Apsorn. It also comes in a spicier version – the Stir-fried Crab with Yellow Chilli (THB 400). Pay attention to the tables around you and you would realize that every table has the stir-fried crab dish.

The Omelet with Crab (THB 90) – a super thick and fluffy omelette that comes with generous chunks of crab meat – pleased our tummies too. Eggs can be so satisfying, and even better with sweet crab meat.

A popular dish is the Stir-fried Green Mussels with Basil Leaves and Chilli (THB 100). It was hot and very spicy, just like how the Thais love it. And do so we.

Deep Fried King Mackerel with Mango Salad (THB 250) was another winner. The fish was perfectly fried, not overly oily and paired with a superb mango salad that was tangy and sour, it whet our appetites so.

The only letdown was the Deep Fried Chicken Wings (THB 90). There is quite a few raves about this dish online but sadly, it was run-of-the-mill and not worth the calories at all, especially when there are so many delectable dishes that you can order at Krua Apsorn. Skip this please.

Most of the dishes range from THB 90 to 200, and the most expensive dish on the menu is the Stir-fried Crab (THB 400). Besides the items that we’ve had, there are also the usual Thai classic dishes such as Tom Yum Kung (THB 170), Green Curry Chicken (THB 110), Papaya Salad (THB 70), and Pad Thai Goong (THB 80).

Krua Apsorn has several branches in Bangkok, but go to the original outlet at Samsen Soi 9 – located just north of the National Library in the old town of Bangkok. Getting there can be quite a challenge because it is relatively inaccessible, but if you are planning to make a trip to visit Dusit Palace or Khao San Road (the backpackers’ district in Bangkok), then it is in the vicinity; just approximately 10 minutes away. Of course, when in doubt, just hail a cab. The journey from the main Siam area is about 20 minutes without traffic.

If Krua Apsorn was located near Siam or Sukhumvit, we would dine here every day whenever we are in Bangkok.

Krua Apsorn
Samsen Road
Samsen 1 Alley, Wat Sam Phraya
Phra Nakhon, Bangkok
Tel: +66 2 668 8788
Mon to Sat: 10.30am – 7.30pm

169 Dinsor Bawornniwes Pranakron
Tel: +66 2 685 4531
Mon to Sat: 10.30am – 7.30pm

For more recommendations, read our guide to Bangkok’s top 10 favourite restaurants.

The Land of Smiles is extremely popular and well-loved among us Singaporeans. There are so many reasons to love Bangkok, and no number of trip is ever enough. What’s “enough” when you have so much to eat and shop anyway?

Over the years, we’ve seen the changes in the scene, we’ve been wowed on countless occasions, and we love how Bangkok is nailing the cafe culture. Every trip brings about new discoveries, and there is surely something new to check out and to fall in love with.

Cakes, tarts, coffee. Pancakes, eggs, French toasts. Salads, pastas, burgers. The cafe scene in Bangkok is well-rounded and nothing short of happening. When you need a slice of cake in between that crazy retail therapy, or a spot to grab your daily coffee, or a cosy space to have a meal at, this Guide to Bangkok’s 32 Best Cafes will take you through.

#1 24 OWLS BY SOMETIMES

With both al fresco and indoor seating, 24 Owls is a cafe at Ekkamai. Its outdoor area is a splendid spot for photos, and it resembles those streets by London. Expect an expansive breakfast menu, as with all-day pastas and a whole fridge of cakes.

39/9 Sol Ekkamai 12
Sukhumvit 63 Road
Tel: +66 2 391 4509
Daily: 24 Hours
Nearest BTS: Ekkamai

#2 AFTER YOU

After You is a very popular dessert spot that is known for their Shibuya Honey Toast (THB175). For something different, try the Sticky Toffee Toast (THB175) or Matcha Toast (THB195). Everything is very photogenic, and they taste as good as they look.

Siam Square One
Daily: 11am – 12midnight
Nearest BTS: Siam

#3 AUDREY CAFE & BISTRO

One of the prettiest cafes and among the most popular is Audrey, a predominantly monochrome cafe with cascading vines and fairy lights. Thong Lo has no lack of cafes, but Audrey is visually arresting and too pretty to miss. It offers a menu that serves both Western and Thai, and a whole selection of drinks and desserts. Other outlets can be found at Central Embassy and Siam Centre.

136/3 Thonglor Soi 11
Vaddhana, Sukhumvit 55
Tel: +66 2 712 6667
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Thong Lo

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#4 CASA LAPIN

There are many cafes that offer good coffee in Bangkok, but Casa Lapin stands out for its inviting vibe. The original Casa Lapin at Thonglor Art Village is a hole-in-the-wall coffee joint, while the newer Casa Lapin X49 at an alley on Sukhumvit Soi 49 opposite Samitivej Hospital is an intimate space where you can have coffee, linger around and read. What also impresses us is the range of magazines that they offer – Cereal, Frankie and Kinfolk, to name a few.

Soi Songphinong
Between Thonglor 13 and Sukhumvit Soi 49/7
Tel: +66 81 261 2040
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 8.30pm
Sat & Sun: 10.30am – 8.30pm
Nearest BTS: Thong Lo

#5 CERESIA COFFEE ROASTER

Owned by Venezuelan sisters Marian and Lucia Aguilar and Lucia’s husband Bret Asavaroengchai, Ceresia Coffee Roaster is a spot where you can drop by for a cuppa, and have a discussion about coffee with the passionate owners. This boutique roaster takes great pride in serving only the best coffee. Case in point: They roast their beans in small batches so as to maintain the original flavours from their origins.

593/29-41 Sukhumvit Soi 33/1
Tel: +66 2 843 8235
Tue to Sun: 8am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Phrom Phong BTS

#6 CHU CHOCOLATE BAR & CAFE

Spacious and quiet, Chu sits within a commercial building and we love their simple concept. The cafe is heavy on their wooden elements with lamps hanging frivolously, and soft lounge tracks fill the space. We love the churros here, but you really take your pick from their range of hot chocolates. The higher the percentage, the greater your endorphins rush.

Exchange Tower 388 Sukhumvit Road
Unit 204-206 2nd Floor
Tel: +66 2 663 4554
Mon to Fri: 7.30am – 9pm
Sat & Sun: 8am – 9pm
Nearest BTS: Asoke

#7 COFFEE BEAN BY DAO

A convenient spot that sits at the basement of Siam Paragon, Coffee Bean by Dao is a chain where you can rest your feet from all the shopping. Compose yourself with a cuppa, or do a quick meal before you go on to more shopping.

Siam Paragon Shopping Centre
Tel: +66 2 610 9702
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Siam

#8 CREPES & CO.

Other than being known for their sweet and savoury crepes, Crepes And Co also has a comprehensive menu serving Greek, Moroccan and Spanish food. But we almost always come here just for the crepes. With so many tempting choices, let’s just forget the main courses and dive deep into sugar-land.

59/4 Soi Langsuan (Langsuan Soi 1)
Ploenchit Road, Lumpini, Patumwan
Tel: +66 02 652 0208
Nearest BTS: Chidlom

#9 EVERYDAY BY KARMAKAMET

Everyday by Karmakamet at Yada Building (just beside Sala Daeng BTS) in Silom is opened by Karmakamet, a popular Bangkok-based aromatic products brand. This charming cafe features the Karmakamet’s line of fragrances and lifestyle products.

I love that it is a very creative space and it encourages people to express themselves by drawing or writing down their thoughts on cards. It is a spot where you can either sit down by yourself to read a book and do some work, or to hang out with a friend to catch up over coffee and desserts (just a note, they do not serve proper food here). It is a spot where time freezes and you can just do whatever you like and forget about the world.

Karmakamet Diner, the group’s latest restaurant on Sukhumvit Soi 24, is an equally beautiful place. We will be sharing more on that in another post.

1/F Yada Building
Silom Road
Tel: +66 2 237 1148
Nearest Station: Sala Daeng BTS/ Silom MRT

#10 GRAM

Located at Sukhumvit Soi 49, Gram is a favourite among the Japanese expats who live in the neighbourhood. Its menu is segmented into eggs, bagels, salads, burgers, pancakes, French toasts and pastas. Prices range from THB 120 to 340. As you can tell, it is a pretty affordable option.

Soi Sukhumvit 49
1/F, 49 Terrace
Tel: +66 02 884 8554
Tue to Sun: 9am – 5pm
Nearest BTS: Thong Lo

#11 GREYHOUND 

Arguably the most famous cafe in Bangkok is Greyhound Cafe. Prices are very reasonable, and it makes a lovely pit stop. Pastas such as fettuccine with shrimp, and spicy spaghetti Thai style are around THB 190 – THB 320.

1F J Avenue Lifestyle Mall
Thonglor Soi 15
Tel: 02 712 6547
Nearest BTS: Thong Lo

#12 HELLO KITTY CAFE

This is one place that will drive every girl crazy. The all-new Hello Kitty Cafe is a multi-story unit that sits within Siam Square One. It’s huge, and it’s cute; you should go some time soon. Pink and prominently, you will definitely not miss it from the main road.

Step in to a wondrous Sanrio world, and be wowed by the expansive Hello Kitty decor. There is a dine-in area, a merchandise shop and, hold your breath, a Hello Kitty Spa!

SiamSQ1, Bangkok
Tel: +66 2 115 1335
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Siam

#13 INK & LION

A quiet haunt that sits unassumingly in the Ekkamai neighbourhood, Ink & Lion is a vintage-styled coffee shop that combines the simplicity of quality brew, vinyl on loop, and an art gallery. These guys here take their coffee very seriously, so you know you are in for the real deal. Do your latte with a slice of cake. All their bakes are from Size S Coffee & Bakery.

1/7 Soi Ekkamai 2, Sukhumvit Soi 63
Tel: +66 91 559 0994
Sat, Sun, Mon & Tue: 9am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Ekkamai

#14 KARMAKAMET DINER

Karmakamet Diner is a super gorgeous and stunning restaurant. The space is very well-furnished, with so much thoughts put into every detail. For such a nice restaurant, prices are not expensive. The brunch items range from THB270 for a Egg White Fritata to THB490 for a Full Breakfast. The must-try dessert is the super photogenic Strawberry In The Clouds – strawberry shortcake with rainbow cotton candy (THB390).

30/1 Sukhumvit Soi 24 Bangkok
Tel: +66 02 262 0700
Daily: 9am – 11pm
Nearest BTS: Phrom Phong

#15 KUPPA

Established in 1998, Kuppa remains a popular haunt for its regulars. The comprehensive menu features a selection of breakfast items, pastas, sandwiches, pizzas as well as Thai favourites. The coffee is made from beans that are roasted in-house.

39 Sukhumvit 16 Khlong Toei
Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Tel: +66 02 663 0450
Nearest BTS: Asoke

#16 KYO ROLL EN

An exquisite spot at Central Embassy, Kyo Roll En offers an elegant experience with its artisanal Japanese desserts. Famed for their Japanese rolls, you will be completely spoil for choice because every single item just looks too gorgeous to be missed. Instead of merely taking away a roll or two, we strongly encourage you to dine in. There is a menu of roll sets of different combinations – with fruit platters and/or soft serve, all at THB 259 each.

Level 5 Central Embassy
1031 Ploenchit Road
Nearest BTS: Phloen Chit

#17 LA BAGUETTE THE FRENCH BAKERY CAFE

Established in Pattaya since 2003, La Baguette recently opened its first outlet in Bangkok at the new EmQuartier District – the latest luxury shopping mall to open in the heart of the city. Known for its French crepes, croissants and desserts,

The dining scene in Bangkok is constantly changing. Every time we visit the city, there are always new restaurants and cafes to check out. If you don’t know where to start, here are our top 10 favourite restaurants in Bangkok.

La Baguette is a French-style and pretty outlet to sit down for a quick meal after shopping in the mall. The array of desserts will surely make you go weak in the knees. Try the famous Rainbow Crepe Cake, too!

#18 LONDON TEA CAFE

Originated from Seoul, London Tea Cafe has an eclectic menu of Korean-inspired dishes and desserts to boast. It includes all-day brunch items too, such as toasts and flapcakes. Try the Chocolate French Toast; it was our favourite item among all that we tried. The Kimchi Omelette sounds interesting too. But if you need more sweets, go for the Oreo bingsu (Korean shaved ice dessert).

31 The Portico Building
Langsuan Plernchit Road
Lumpini Pathumwan
Tel: +66 2 650 4653
Nearest BTS: Chidlom

#19 LIBRARY CAFE

We fell in love with Library Cafe at Sukhumvit Soi 24 as soon as we stepped in. Quaint and comfy, this is a place where you can hang out and chit-chat with friends, or to simply spend the afternoon reading a book while sipping a latte.

2 Soi Metheenivet, Sukhumvit 24
Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Tel: +66 02 259 2878
Daily: 8am – 9pm
Nearest BTS: Prompong

#20 MOKO COFFEE & EATERY

An artsy cafe with quirky decor and displays in a myriad of colours, Moko Coffee & Eatery is a good spot to retreat to amidst the humdrum of Silom. Quiet and tucked away in a small lane, this cafe has been a well-received one among expats since its opening some eight months ago. Its menu is slightly pricey, with a fair mix of French and Italian choices.

Soi Sathon 10, Silom, Bang Rak
Tel: +66 2 635 3673
Daily: 8am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Chong Nonsi

#21 MR JONES ORPHANAGE

Contradicting its name, Mr Jones Orphanage is one whimsical bear-themed cafe with a dessert shrine that will take your breath away with its huge selection of homemade goodies. We can never make up our minds whenever we come here, because how is one supposed to only pick one from this crazy selection?!

989 Soi Siam Center Building
3rd Floor, Rama 1 Road
Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
Daily: 11am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Siam

#22 NIKKO CAFE 

A Japanese cafe that sits opposite 24 Owls is Nikko, this outlet at Ekkamai has a concise menu that caters to the Japanese community. The mains include Samurai Stew Pork (THB 180), Chachu Don (THB 200) and Tonkatsu Curry (THB 250). On the desserts page, the Matcha Pudding (THB 165) and Passion Fruit Pavlova (THB 170) make lovely endings to your meal.

30/18 Soi Charoen Chai
Ekkamai Soi 12
Tel: +66 02 381 5291
Daily: 7am – 11pm
Nearest BTS: Ekkamai

#23 ONE OUNCE FOR ONION

Forget about waffles with ice-cream or soft serve. Try waffles with popsicles. This is revelation, and exactly why we love One Ounce for Onion. Contrary to its theme, this Japanese-influenced cafe has no onions, but a menu that is chockfull of art and creativity.

Flipping the menu on its own was a joy; we enjoyed browsing through their alternative selections while admiring the amazing photos. Anyway, we digressed. Order the waffles with popsicle.

19/12 Ekkamai Soi 12
Tel: +66 02 046 6885
Mon to Fri: 9am – 6pm
Sat & Sun: 9am – 8pm
Nearest BTS: Ekkamai

#24 PHIL COFFEE COMPANY

Tucked in a quiet alley on Sukhumvit Soi 61 which is in between Thonglo and Ekkamai, Phil Coffee Company is where coffee-lovers in-the-know flock to for their daily dose of caffeine. Here, coffee beans are sourced from all over the world, and roasted in small batches. For those who want to learn more about coffee, Phil Coffee Company provides barista training which includes latte art and coffee tasting.

21 Sukhumvit Soi 61
Tel: +66 02 001 5850
Tue to Sun: 9am – 6pm
Nearest BTS: Thonglo/Ekkamai

#25 ROAST

Roast, our favourite cafe in Bangkok, has relocated from its previous location at SeenSpace. Its spanking new space at The Commons is nothing short of cosy too. Expect the usual fare – brunch items, a la minute desserts, great coffee, friendly staff, laid back vibes.

Soi Thong Lo 17, Khlong Tan Nuea
Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Tel: +66 89 152 2677
Mon to Thu: 10am – 11pm
Fri & Sat: 9am – 11pm
Sun: 9am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Thonglor

#26 ROCKET COFFEE BAR

Established in July 2013, Rocket Coffee Bar started as a hole-in-the-wall joint at Sathorn Soi 12, and the rest as they say is history. It has since expanded to other parts of the city, including this largest outlet on Sukhumvit Soi 49.

Rocket Coffee Bar is undoubtedly one of the most stylish coffee shops in Bangkok. The combination of good coffee, free wifi, simple and earnest wholesome food such as sandwiches, salads, and breakfast make Rocket Coffee Bar a place where we will always return to. And so will you after you’ve checked them out.

46, 21/13 Klang Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana
Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Tel: +66 02 6626 638
Sun to Thu: 7am – 9pm
Fri & Sat: 7am – 11pm
Nearest BTS: Thonglor

#27 SPOONFUL ZAKKA CAFE

Combining a lifestyle concept shop and a small cafe, Spoonful is located in the same building at London Tea Cafe. It has a simple menu of scones, desserts and drinks. The environment is a tranquil one, with soft instrumentals playing and quiet patrons sipping tea while reading their magazines.

31 Lang Suan 7 Alley
Lumphini, Pathum Wan
Tel: +66 02 652 2278
Daily: 11am – 7pm
Nearest BTS: Chidlom

#28 THE NINTH CAFE

We love the Thai Tea Cake here! Luscious and every bit pretty, this is reason enough to visit The Ninth Cafe. There are three outlets, with the one at Siam Paragon being the most accessible. We’d suggest coming here with a bunch of girlfriends so that you don’t have to decide on only one cake.

Siam Paragon, G Floor
Tel : +66 02 610 7551
Nearest BTS: Siam

#29 VANILLA GARDEN

Nestled in a beautiful garden, Vanilla Garden in Ekkamai combines three concepts in one compound. Vanilla Cafe is a Japanese-style cafe; Vanilla Bakeshop with its freshly pastries and desserts; and Sauce is a library/bookshop that focuses on cookbooks. Vanilla Garden is a gorgeous space and while it can be quite inaccessible, you should make the trip to Ekkamai just for it.

53 Ekkamai Soi 12
Sukhumvit Soi 63
Tel: +66 2 381 6120
Daily: 7am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Ekkamai

#30 WHITE FLOWER FACTORY

This is the second outlet by White Flower Cafe & Bakery, and it sits on the fourth level of Siam Square One. Lavishly furnished with wood and flowers and low-hanging lights, it is a European-styled cafe that serves both Western and Thai dishes. It is evident that the locals love it here, and we’d say ditch the Western menu. Do it like the Thais, and indulge in a Thai feast of curries and stir-fry classics.

Siam SQ1 4th Floor
Tel: +66 2 225 4749
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Siam

#31 WONDERWALL THE KAFFEBAR

Just down the road from Isao, an excellent Japanese restaurant which serves wonderful fusion sushi rolls; and Appia, a popular Italian eatery, is Wonderwall The Kaffeebar. It is a hidden gem and a great spot to chill with friends while enjoying lattes, cappuccinos and espressos.

Avora 31 Residence
28 Sukhumvit Soi 31 Bangkok
Tel: +66 86 528 2824
Mon to Sat: 7.30am – 7pm
Sun: 10am – 7pm
Nearest Station: MRT Sukhumvit/Phrom Phong BTS

#32 YINGDEAW HOMEMADE

A dessert cafe in Siam, Yingdeaw Homemade is known for their homemade waffles. Cookies Caramel Crumble, Banana Chocolate Almond and Vanilla Honey Kiwi are some options are THB 165 each. Over on the cake menu, try the Hot Chocolate Pudding (THB 160) and Strawberry Vanilla Cake (THB 165).

Siam SQ1 4th Floor
Tel: +66 02 117 4951
Daily: 10am – 10pm
Nearest BTS: Siam

For more recommendations, read our guide to Bangkok’s top 10 favourite restaurants.

A perennial favourite in Bangkok is Inter Restaurant at Siam Square Soi 9. Whenever we are at the Land of Smiles, we will find ourselves returning to this humble eatery for a meal or two. Or more.

Well, don’t expect a lavish interior nor impeccable service. Inter is completely opposite. It is unpretentious, the space is simple and sufficient but nothing fancy to boast, the staff are not the friendliest. But we love it oh-so-deeply because the kitchen whips up terrific Thai dishes at super affordable prices that range from THB 65 to THB 120.

Sounds predictable? Sure, there is really nothing out of the world here. But what earned our many years of loyalty is its consistency and authenticity. A full menu of hearty Thai dishes like tomyum, pad Thai, green curry chicken, stir-fried morning glory, stir-fried kale with crispy pork, fried rice and fried pork with garlic and pepper… and the list goes on.

Cheap and good local food sounds overused, but is just about right. We’d say Inter redefines ‘cheap and good local food’.

This eatery may sit in the heart of Siam Square, but strangely, it is not flooded with tourists. Yet. Its daily crowd is made up of locals, locals, and more locals. So they say, “dine where the locals dine.” This is it. Can’t get more authentic than that, huh?

Unlike many other tourist traps in Siam Square that serves nothing more than exorbitant Thai food that are really just watered-down versions with fancy names, Inter Restaurant is a gem and we hope it stays tourist-free and humble just the way it is. We are sounding too much like an obsessed lover, but oh, Inter. How we love you so!

Inter Restaurant
Siam Square Soi 9
Tel: +66 2 251 4689
Nearest Station: Siam

For more recommendations, read our guide on our Top 10 favourite restaurants in Bangkok.