Located just a few minutes walk away from Bangkok’s hottest lifestyle destination, The Commons, is a casual Thai eatery called Khao Jao. If you are tired of the hipster cafes in Bangkok, check out this place for a good variety of local dishes that will not disappoint.

Their Thai-centric menu features stir-fried Thai noodles, classic Thai fried rice and omelette served in various styles. Prices of the mains range from THB50/S$2.05 to THB70/S$2.88, so you are getting extremely good value for the quality and portions of the food.

There is nothing fancy about the interior at Khao Jao as it is a simple place that will make you feel at ease when you dine there. Take a look at the many miniature toys on display at the wooden shelves while you are waiting for your food!

Khao Jao’s Stir Fried Spicy Noodle Pork (THB55/S$2.23) left a deep impression on us as every mouthful of noodles was flavourful. The addition of crunchy vegetables also gave the dish a variety of textures when we had it together with smooth rice noodles. We also liked how the spice level was just right, without it being overbearing.

Next up, we tried their Green Curry Fried Rice (THB60/S$2.47) which came with fried fish and fresh cucumbers. Although we felt that it was slightly underwhelming when compared to the Stir Fried Spicy Noodle, we thoroughly enjoyed the crispy fried fish as the meat was juicy and tender.

Those are looking for some side dishes to complement your meal, we highly recommend the Omelette with minced shrimp (THB60/S$2.47). This classic Thai dish is masterfully executed there—think fluffy egg omelette with savoury bits of shrimp that enhances the overall taste of the omelette. Yes, it was so good that we finished every morsel of it.

Khao Jao
Thonglor Soi 17
Bangkok, Thailand
Tel: +66 02 712 5665
Daily: 10am – 8.30pm
Nearest BTS: Thonglor

The Commons at Thonglor is Bangkok’s Hottest Destination right now.

With 28 restaurants, cafes and shops to boast, it is an enchanting space in Thonglor that opened its doors to public in January 2016. It is not “just another mall”; it is a community, and a way of life to the guys who envisioned and built The Commons.

“Our intention is to build first a community, then a mall. We want to become Thonglor’s backyard – a gathering ground for specialized producers and their customers. We hope to promote wholesome living and a true sense of community.”

With the words of the founder of The Commons, you know this is where you should be.

At The Commons, one should first know that going with an empty stomach and a thirsty desire to explore is necessary. For one, The Commons is anything but common and conventional.

The sheer splendour of the building is one that will leave you in awe – the space, the architecture, the enthusiastic beings you will meet… everything is unique to The Commons. Everyone gets together for a unanimous belief – the love for life.

Explore the world of gourmet here at The Commons. Some brands and concepts to look out for are Maison Jean Philippe, Roots Coffee Bar (another concept by Roast which used to be located at Ekkamai), Peppina, Soul Food (by the famous Soul Food Mahanakorn), Meat & Bones, The Beer Cap, Egg My God, East Bound, Absolute Fit Food, and Barrio Bonito Mexican Restaurant. They all have their own stories to tell, and a menu to tease.

The “Village” zone is marked by Plant House, a famous florist shop in Bangkok. This level also includes Jona Waffle – a cafe that specialises in waffles, with 10 different flavours such as Orange Suzette, French Toast Waffle, and Blueberry Cheese Pie on the menu.

On the third floor, Play Yard, you can find Absolute Yoga. Well-being is definitely integral to the community.

And on the top level, we have Roast’s new home. The ever popular cafe has relocated from its previous location at SeenSpace, and 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, laidback vibes.

Apart from these, there are several lifestyle and fashion boutiques within the building.

The Commons is currently still in a soft launch stage, but expect more exciting brands to open in the coming months. All in all, this is the newest spot in Bangkok that you totally have to visit if you are in the city.

The Commons
Soi Thong Lo 17, Khlong Tan Nuea
Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Tel: +66 89 152 2677
Nearest BTS: Thonglor

For more recommendations, read our guide to the best cafes in Bangkok.