Influenced by geography, trade and time, Thai cuisine is extremely varied depending on the region. Together with Citibank, Michelin Guide invites you to travel from north to south, tasting all of Thailand’s local specialties with these partnered restaurants in Bangkok.
Err (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
While known for their reinterpretations of humble street food, Err also features some very unique northern Thai delicacies. These show up in the ‘preserved’ section of their menu and include Grilled Northern-Style Garlic and Sticky Rice Cured Pork, a tangy, spicy and slightly funky version of a pork sausage; as well as Preserved Single-Clove Garlic in Lampang Honey, a popular export from the northern province of Lampang, where bees feed off the Longan fruit orchards and wildflowers, giving the honey a distinctive flavour.
Somtum Der (Silom) (Michelin Plate)
Isaan dishes are popular throughout Thailand for their bold flavours and freshness. Key to this, of course, is the iconic Papaya Salad (somtum). Somtum Der makes one of the most authentic versions available in the city, but if you are looking for something new, you can try one of their ten variations. Authentic Isaan soup such as the Chicken Soup with Local Herbs: Isaan Style, is another standout that definitely packs a punch.
Somtum Khun Kan (Michelin Plate)
Starting as a humble shop in Muang Thong Thani, Khun Kan earned its stripes by winning the Somtum competition in 1999. The restaurant features great Isaan classics that complement their famous somtum well. We recommend the Grilled Pork Shoulder with Honey and Herbs.
100 Mahaseth (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
Keep your notions of tradition at the door as you enter 100 Mahaseth. With an enticing blend of Indochine flavours, this spot also makes some interesting Isaan fare. 100 Mahaseth specialises in ‘nose to tail’ dishes and uses locally-sourced ingredients. With its own dry-aging meat cabinet, we highly recommend their grilled dishes, which complement the punchy Isaan dipping sauces perfectly.
Baan (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
The menu at Baan mixes central cuisine and Isaan offerings, giving diners the best of both worlds. The intense Somtum Pa (Forrest-style Papaya Salad) includes fermented crab, clam and fish that will trigger fond memories for anyone with roots in the northeast. On the other hand, a large selection of wok-fried dishes gives us a wonderful introduction to the Chinese-influenced recipes of Thailand’s central region.
Ruen Mallika (Michelin Plate)
Situated in a 200-year old traditional Thai teak house, Ruen Mallika is known for Royal Thai Cuisine that is one of the hallmarks of central Thailand. With its roots in the palace kitchens, these dishes are not only tasty, but are also beautifully presented with hand-carved vegetables and traditional tableware. Standout dishes here include the Spicy and Sour Soup with Acacia Omelette and Shrimp and elegant Nam Prik platters.
Baan Khanitha (Michelin Plate)
A Bangkok staple that has been serving locals for over twenty years, Baan Khanitha is well known for their central Thai classics. Their family-style menu uses ingredients grown at Baan Panalai Organic Farm, the restaurant’s own organic farm. You’ll find all the usual suspects like Tom Yum and Green Curry, but we recommend any dish that uses Giant Ayutthaya Prawns, a flavourful local delicacy that is the lobster’s main contender.
Namsaah Bottling Trust (Michelin Plate)
Created by Thai Celebrity Chef Ian Kittichai, Namsaah Bottling Trust features Thai favourites with a modern spin. While the menu focuses on Asian flavours, you’ll also find an offering of central Thailand’s best dishes like “kee mao” drunken lobster in a spicy green peppercorn sauce. Their popular cocktails are also a perfect embodiment of Bangkok’s inventive nightlife scene.
Sala Rim Nam (Mandarin Oriental) (Michelin Plate)
With its location on the quieter side of the Chao Phraya River, Sala Rim Nam is a peaceful spot to indulge in traditional Thai food. While dishes from different regions from north to south are represented in Sala Rim Nam’s menu, the presentation is very much in the style of Royal Thai cuisine. To add to the atmosphere, an authentic classical Thai dance is performed every night to accompany your dinner.
Supanniga Eating Room (Thonglor and Tha Tian) (Michelin Plate)
Supanniga Eating Room at Thonglor and Tha Tian are both great places for family-style Thai food. Many key dishes were originally from the owner’s grandmother, who hailed from Trat Province, giving the menu an interesting blend of southern and central cuisine with an emphasis on seafood. At the flagship restaurant in Thonglor, the vibe is more laid-back and great for large groups, while the the Tha Thian branch boasts an unbeatable view of Wat Arun.
The Local (Michelin Bib Gourmand)
Housed in a colonial-style building, The Local features dishes from all regions of Thailand, but leaning more towards authentic southern-Thai offerings. Aside from the main dining area, there are also cosy private dining rooms and a Chef’s Table that uses fresh ingredients from the house’s herb garden.
Yoong Kao Hom (Michelin Plate)
Originating in Samui, Yoong Khao Hom continues to cook its wholesome Thai Southern Cuisine for Bangkok locals. The chefs have all been trained on the Thai island and ingredients are also brought in from the south to ensure authentic flavours.
For more information on the dining privileges that Citi credit card members can receive at these venues, visit www.citibank.co.th
