Best-of Guides Bangkok

The Best Places To Eat Near Bangkok's Grand Palace

7 Restaurants
It is said that if you come to Bangkok and miss visiting the Grand Palace or Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), commonly known as 'Wat Phra Kaew' by Thai people, then it can be considered that you haven't truly arrived in the Thai capital.
Updated on 07 August 2023

The grand and astonishing Temple of the Emerald Buddha, one of the most beautiful temples in the world, is situated in the area of Rattanakosin Island, the historic part of Bangkok. Wat Phra Kaew was established in the year 2325 of the Buddhist calendar (1782 AD) when King Rama I, the first monarch of the Chakri Dynasty, also known as King Buddha Yodfa Chulalok, chose to build the temple, the Grand Palace, and the city of Bangkok simultaneously. Wat Phra Kaew served as the residence of Thai kings from the first to the fifth reigns and was part of the Grand Palace. It also houses the revered Emerald Buddha, or Phra Kaew Morakot, and remains a significant place for royal ceremonies and religious practices in the present day.

Though the Grand Palace may not have resident monks or regular religious activities like other temples, simply taking a stroll to admire the exquisite architecture and artwork both inside and outside the temple is enough to immerse yourself in Thai art and culture. The temple walls are adorned with mural paintings depicting historical stories, offering a feast for the eyes and a glimpse into the past. Moreover, these fine artworks have been continuously restored by artists from various eras, adding a timeless touch of contemporary beauty that keeps visitors fascinated without ever getting bored.

Apart from the Grand Palace itself, visitors can also walk over to explore other nearby tourist attractions, such as Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), or cross the river to visit Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchaworamahawihan, and many more.

Tired from walking and in need of a delicious energy boost? Here are 8 excellent restaurants that have been carefully selected by MICHELIN Inspectors for their delectable dishes and proximity, which you shouldn't miss. (Including comments from the inspector's notebook to help you decide!)

Nusara
336 Maha Rat Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok
฿฿฿฿ · Thai

This brainchild of Chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn from Le Du and Baan showcases a classic fine dining Thai tasting menu cooked with his family recipes, blending nostalgia and home-cooked flavors together. Chef Ton and his team carefully select ingredients from various regions across the country to pay homage to his grandmother in a historic building built during the reign of King Rama V.

Rongros
392/16 Maha Rat Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok
฿฿ · Thai

Named 'Rongros,' which translates to 'House of Flavours,' this restaurant preserves the authentic taste of traditional Thai cuisine by the banks of the Chao Phraya River, offering a stunning view of Wat Arun. Some of the highlights on the menu include the green curry with rib eye beef served with roti and the tangy glass noodle salad. The vintage décor, featuring chandeliers, painted Chinese panels, and wooden furniture, enhances the dining experience. For a memorable evening, make a reservation on the terrace to enjoy the breathtaking sunset view.

Supanniga Eating Room (Tha Tian)
392/25-26 Maha Rat Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok
฿฿ · Thai

This casual restaurant offers homestyle Thai food with picturesque views of the Chao Phraya River and the iconic Wat Arun. Whether you're having a leisurely lunch with friends after exploring the nearby Grand Palace or savouring a romantic dinner at sunset, don't miss their flavourful signature dishes. The recipes are handed down from the owner's grandmother, with standouts like fried Chinese cabbage and braised pork belly with herbs and cowa leaves. For a rooftop seat during the sunset, make sure to book in advance.

Chakrabongse Dining
396/1 Maha Rat Road, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok
฿฿฿ · Thai

Nestled in a historic house along the riverside, this restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River and Wat Arun, creating a spectacular backdrop for your culinary journey. Offering daily-changing authentic royal Thai cuisine set menus, it is renowned for its delicate and genuine flavours. The menu surprises with a different selection each day, featuring impressive dishes like river prawns in a spicy and sour coconut broth with banana blossom and Chakrabongse roasted duck red curry with mixed fruits.

S.B.L.
710-714 Maha Chai Road, Wang Burapha Phirom, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok
฿฿ · Chinese

Having stood for 50 years, this Chinese restaurant underwent a complete makeover by its second-generation owner. The menu predominantly offers traditional Chinese dishes, complemented by a few innovative creations that bring novel twists. Highly recommended items include the stewed fish maw in gravy and the delectable X.O. scallops. The secret to a satisfying meal lies in the use of quality ingredients skillfully prepared with years of experience.

K. Panich
431-433 Tanao Road, Sao Chingcha, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok
฿ · Street Food

This renowned mango sticky rice shop near the Grand Palace upholds an over 80-year-old family recipe, handed down through generations. The mango sticky rice is prepared to perfection, and equally delightful are the steamed sticky rice with banana or taro, enhanced by the rich taste of coconut milk.

Jay Fai
327 Maha Chai Road, Samran Rat, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok
฿฿฿ · Street Food

A street food icon in Thailand, Jay Fai serves delectable comfort dishes made with top-quality seafood in generous portions. Her exceptional cooking skills, particularly in frying and stir-frying on a charcoal stove, add to the experience. Jay Fai's fame as a street food icon is well-deserved, thanks to her incomparable crispy golden-brown crab omelettes. But if you’re looking for another reason to love the local legend, try her excellent stir-fried noodles with seafood and gravy.

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