Of course, green curry is simply delicious, and the zesty, soupy tom yam is hot and irresistible, but Thailand still has more to offer.
The Thai dishes from the restaurants listed in the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024 captivated our experienced MICHELIN Inspectors so much that they couldn't stop raving about them.
Here is where you can find these delightful creations in both Bangkok and Phuket.
Khanom chin sao nam
Wana Yook (Thai Contemporaty, one MICHELIN Star, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)Chef Chalee Kader's modern interpretation of this classic rice noodle dish, the emphasis lies on precisely made tender, soft Thai rice noodles served in a delectable warm coconut-based sauce. The spicing is subtle, with the noodles topped by lightly saline fish roe, finely sliced red chilli, and herbs that further elevate the dish. At the table, an iced coconut 'snow' is added, introducing a refreshing temperature contrast. The result is a highly effective and seamless array of flavours, showcasing assured modern technique and beautiful balance.
Grilled frog salad with young mangosteen
Samrub Samrub Thai (Thai, one MICHELIN Star, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)Crafted with meticulous care and confidence, this dish by Chef Prin Polsuk and his team boasts a highly effective layered construction. The young mangosteen, firm and lightly fruity, carries a delightful balance—sweetness with just a hint of acidity. The pieces of frog's leg are a testament to culinary expertise, cooked to perfection with tender, flavoursome meat effortlessly separating from the bone. The addition of mint leaves, chilli, crispy garlic, and a superbly spiced Thai dressing injects real vibrancy into the ensemble, while the layers of flavours contribute to an impressive depth and complexity.
Thai crispy pancakes
Baan Suriyasai (Thai, MICHELIN-rated, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)These ancient Thai snacks, known as khanom bueang, are traditionally crafted from crispy rice flour, presenting themselves in perfectly bite-sized portions. The middle filling offers a delightful balance—slightly salty, with coconut stir-fried alongside shrimp and shredded kaffir lime leaves, creating a nuanced sweet and salty taste. Additionally, bean sprouts contribute a refreshing touch. The steamed crab meat, naturally imbued with a mild salty taste, is accompanied by a very tasty ajad (pickled cucumber), cleverly scented with ginger. The array of flavours and textures makes this culinary experience truly memorable.
Grilled scallop with Nakhon Chai Si pomelo salad
Chim by Siam Wisdom (Thai, one MICHELIN Star, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)The plump and buttery sweet scallop was grilled to perfection and presented on a scallop shell accompanied by white coconut milk foam and chilli paste, expertly blended with chopped peanuts, pomelo, and herbs. A subtle coconut milk aroma wafted from the foam, and the judicious amount of chilli paste, complemented by a slight sour note from pomelo, combined with fruity freshness, delivered the perfect finish.
Yellow curry of sea bass with coconut shoots
Naam Yoi (Southern Thai, Bib Gourmand, MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2024)The large pieces of fresh sea bass were firm, tender, and naturally sweet with a flaky texture. Two generously sized portions, impeccably presented, showcased the kitchen's confidence. Vibrantly orange-yellow in colour, the dish had a cloudy nature, featuring ripe and lightly crisp sliced coconut tops. The sauce, with a little curry oil floating on top, offered an intense, salty, sour, and hot flavour—typical of the taste of authentic southern yellow curry. The mouth-watering aroma of turmeric and yellow curry paste added to the culinary experience.
Illustration image: © Michelin