Dining Out 2 minutes 06 September 2018

Food Walk #4: The Heat is on in Sathorn

Once known for its long array of embassies, sky high glass offices and gridlock traffic, Sathorn is morphing itself to become somewhat of a dining gem (whilst staying true to its gridlock traffic status).

With an influx of watering holes, fine dining restaurants and small gems tucked away in the area’s more residential streets, Sathorn is no longer where you spend your weekly 9-5, but a destination that goes way beyond casual post work bites.

The charm of Sathorn isn’t easily replicated. Those who know the area well or lives here know there’s a certain polished, cosy and offbeat charm about the neighbourhood. With a plethora of restaurant, coffee house and bar openings, it has become an organic mix of power suits, Sunday brunch favourites and top tables for fine diners.

nahm (1 Michelin star)
This one Michelin star restaurant has been on every foodie’s (local and international) list for years, loved for the explosive flavours of Thai dishes with a contemporary twist. Headed by Chef Pim Techamuanvivit, dishes such as the Chicken and Coconut Soup or “Angry Beef” Stir Fry will surprise the palates with bold, fresh flavours of Thai cuisine that’s hard to replicate.

COMO Metropolitan Bangkok, 27 South Sathorn Road
Tel: 02 625 3333

nahm. Miang of lobster, chicken, green mango, snakefruit, and herbs served on thong-lang leaves.
nahm. Miang of lobster, chicken, green mango, snakefruit, and herbs served on thong-lang leaves.

Bunker (Michelin Plate)
Look from the outside of Bunker and you may never guess it’s a Michelin Plate restaurant. Step inside the sleek three-floor concrete-inspired space and you’ll find a dimly lit, well stocked bar with a creative cocktail menu to quench your thirst. The food menu is a casual-urban-New-York-style-inspired fusion of contemporary Asian-American cuisine. Whether you are in the mood for wagyu beef, fresh fish or a plate of pasta, Bunker offers them in spades. Look out for the special sharing plates to start and choose a main dish for yourself (you won’t want to share).

Sathorn soi 12, North Sathorn Road
Tel: 02 234 7749

Bunker. Australian grass-fed filet mignon seared and glazed in its own juices and paired with red wine miso eggplants. Photo credit: Bunker's Facebook page.
Bunker. Australian grass-fed filet mignon seared and glazed in its own juices and paired with red wine miso eggplants. Photo credit: Bunker's Facebook page.

The Dining Room at The House on Sathorn (Michelin Plate)
Step inside one of Sathorn’s most pictureesque interiors for a classic, fresh spin on fine dining. Set inside a light yellow colonial estate, formerly the embassy of the Soviet Union, it serves as the perfect backdrop for a few martinis at the dimly lit bar, before transporting to the dining room for supper. Often hosting a revolving series of credited chefs from around the globe, the House on Sathorn is currently serving a modern take on Turkish cuisine by Chef Fatih Tutak, where guests can savour a mixture of dishes ranging from a unique take on the Turkish salad to a lamb kebab.

The Dining Room at The House on Sathorn, W Hotel, South Sathorn Road
Tel: 02 344 4000

The Dining Room at The House on Sathorn. Calamar Dolma: Squid/ Mushrooms / Ink / Sugar Snap Peas. Photo credit: The House on Sathorn's Facebook page.
The Dining Room at The House on Sathorn. Calamar Dolma: Squid/ Mushrooms / Ink / Sugar Snap Peas. Photo credit: The House on Sathorn's Facebook page.

Ocken
Who isn’t talking about Ocken right now? The team behind Roast, Bangkok’s most queued up brunch spot is now on everyone’s “must check-in” list. Tucked away under a sleek office building, Ocken’s clean, modern interior (look for the long wooden bench, perfect for a group catch-up or a double date) sets the tone for a truly rewarding fusion-western inspired experience. Currently packed with the regular Bangkok foodies with a view to the bread kitchen, Ocken rotates its key dishes bi-monthly, whilst keeping the staples such as the salmon belly hand roe and the ice cream sandwich. Reservations recommended.

Bhiraj Tower, 31 S. Sathorn Road
Tel: 082 091 6174 

Ocken. Salmon Belly Hand Roll - furikake - genmai mayo - smoked salmon roe.
Ocken. Salmon Belly Hand Roll - furikake - genmai mayo - smoked salmon roe.

Saawaan
The latest in Bangkok’s Thai fine dining experience, Saawaan is Team Issaya’s latest creation, bringing a refreshing take on classic Thai dishes. Presented as a 10-course set, expect to find a reboot of grilled pork neck, spicy soup and other dishes, sometimes served on a banana leaf or straight from the chef’s chopping board. The moody, dimly-lit
modern space sits right on the bustling Suan Plu road, and diners will be transported into an array of taste buds upon entrance.

Top tip: Tea pairing with the set is optional, or you can opt for a classic glass of wine.

39/19 Soi Suan Plu
Tel: 02 679 3775
 

Saawaan.
Saawaan.

Cactus
Round up your Sathorn stroll at a bar, just like how your night should end - with a classy nightcap at one of the neighbourhood’s cosy watering holes. Cactus is a recent addition in Yen Akart, hidden in one of the residential alleys. Walk up to find cactuses, literally, and a sleek wooden patio with a semi-outdoor bar that is pleasantly packed on Friday nights. If you prefer a quieter area, walk past the brightly coloured prints to one of the more secluded couches inside and order some of their fruit-inspired cocktails. For traditionalists, Cactus also has an extensive spirits list.

After ordering a couple of rounds, sipping on potent cocktails may boost your appetite. This is where Cagette Deli downstairs comes in. What better way to end the evening than with a cheese platter with some cold cuts?

4th floor of Cagette Deli,15 Yen Akart Road (roadside)
Tel: 02 249 1451

Cactus Bar.
Cactus Bar.

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