Food and travel have been a recurring theme in chef Garima Arora’s career trajectory. In fact, her own culinary journey began unexpectedly, when on holiday in Singapore, she discovered the flavours of its famous hotpots. Upon returning to Mumbai, she immediately tried to recreate them for her family. A former journalist, Arora then moved on to study at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, after which she worked under René Redzepi at the iconic Noma in Copenhagen. But it was when she got to Bangkok that something really clicked. “The city chose me, rather than the other way around,” she says, and it’s easy to see why, given the deep connections between India and Thailand that manifest through culture, mythology, and, of course, food.
Soon enough, Arora put down roots in the city by opening her own restaurant, Gaa. Seven years and two Michelin stars later, it’s evident how much the energy of Bangkok’s food culture still inspires the decorated chef—so much so, she created an entire travel itinerary around it for us. From roti carts to spice markets, this is one food guide to Bangkok that you’ll want to bookmark.
A uniquely Bangkok culinary experience
A moo krata (Thai barbecue) experience is definitely something you should try, especially on your first visit. In Bangkok, you’ll notice these restaurants at every street corner, with people gathered around a dome-shaped brass pan, grilling meats and vegetables. I really love that it’s such a communal way of eating. Chin Bo Dang is a good place to start; everything is super fresh there.
A meal worth waiting in line for
I love tempura and when I crave it, I don’t mind queueing up at Ginza Tenharu. It does the best tempura, so light and fresh.
Food history nerds should head to
Samrub Samrub Thai. Chef Prin studies ancient Thai recipes and showcases his own interpretation of them. He’s a phenomenal cook and a great person who truly makes you feel at home when you dine at his restaurant.
A snacky souvenir you cannot leave Bangkok without
Sweet coconut rolls, thong muan (a crispy cigar-shaped snack), and candied tamarind.
The best eggs in town
Hands down, the crab omelette at Charmgang. It’s so juicy, stuffed with fresh crab meat and crunchy bean sprouts. And it is delicious with Thai jasmine rice.
A Thai dessert worth trying
Thai people love sweets, so you’re not going to run out of things to satisfy your sweet tooth here! But I recommend starting with traditional desserts like lod chong (noodles in sweet coconut milk), khanom thuay (sweet rice cakes), and luk chup (edible fruit sculptures).
A delicacy to plan your food trip around
Mayongchid (plum mango) is a fruit that is only available for a short period of time in the summer in Thailand. It’s sweet and tart, and delicious raw—but also make sure to check out how bakeries across the city do their own Mayongchid cakes, pies, and more.
A place to prebook for a romantic dinner
Supanniga Eating Room by the riverfront is the ideal place for dinner—they have an interesting crab menu—and enjoy the view of the Chao Phraya river and Wat Arun, one of the most popular temples in Thailand.
The street with the best eats
There’s good food everywhere in Bangkok, but if we are talking about the hottest spot right now, it’s Banthat Thong Road, which is popular with the young and creative. You can head over to Sane Larb Koi to enjoy the bold flavours of the country’s northeastern dishes or make a pitstop at Jek Meng to try out its famed Hainanese-style chicken rice that has been on the menu for the past 50 years.
A Thai cooking class to book
Bo and Dylan at Bo.lan offer cooking classes where you can learn from the best. I love that they’re so passionate about Thai culinary heritage and an organic and sustainable approach to cooking. At Bo.Lan's workshop, guests master authentic Thai cuisine, from coconut curries to shrimp paste stir-fries. It includes a range of classes that cater to everyone, from tiny tots to aspiring chefs eager to sauté their way to gourmet greatness.
The best thing to try at hawker stalls
Roti! Introduced by Indian immigrants, rotis are very popular here, and roti carts dot the city. The standard cart offers eggs and bananas along with freshly prepared rotis.
A hot sauce to take back with you
You don’t have to look further than Or Tor Kor market to get your hands on different kinds of Thai Nam Prik, a type of local chilli sauce. The sauce, which often includes combinations of dry chilies, dry fish, crab, tamarind, salted egg, and shrimp paste, is typically eaten with rice or vegetables.
A cafe known for its high-quality coffee
Ceresia. It’s straightforward, no frills, and superb. Try the coffees that are in season and sign up for coffee-cupping sessions that include tastings of its latest single-origin coffee.
