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.