When you think about the world’s best restaurants, you probably imagine classic French food and experimental molecular cookery in Scandinavia.
But one popular holiday destination that’s home to some of the best eateries across the globe may just surprise you: Bangkok, Thailand.
Although the country is better known for its full moon parties than its fine dining, six of the World’s Best 100 Restaurants are located in Thailand’s capital — one more than haute cuisine hotspot Paris.
In at number nine, Gaggan was Bangkok’s highest entry on 2024’s list. Infusing Indian, French, Thai and Japanese influences, it aims to take diners on ‘a culinary adventure of the senses and a roller coaster ride of emotions’ with its theatrical 22-course menu of ‘progressive’ dishes.
Next up was Sühring (which holds two Michelin stars) at 23, a German-inspired ‘breath of fresh air’ in the energetic Thai city.
The menu features takes on popular European dishes like Leipziger Allerlei (with Brittany lobster, white asparagus, peas and morels) and a currywurst street food tribute served in a box complete with wooden fork.
The third Bangkok entry was Le Du, which has a Michelin star and placed at a respectable 40th in the annual rankings. Here, you’ll find Thai cuisine given a contemporary twist, from khao chae with jasmine-scented ice cream, pork pate, shrimp and pickled radish to grouper paired with prized ant eggs.
While there’s definitely merit in cheap eats from street food vendors, head chef Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn wants people to see a different side of Bangkok’s food scene, commenting: ‘For a very long time, Thai ingredients have been underappreciated. At Le Du, we believe Thailand is one among the best places on earth for the finest ingredients.’
If stereotypes about rowdy backpackers and red light districts have put you off a trip to Bangkok, it’s worth reconsidering.
Not only is it officially a haven for foodies, it was described as a ‘feast for the senses’ by Lonely Planet and an ‘unforgettable’ destination by visitor Janettebystrom1 on Tripadvisor.
Another reviewer, JamesDhaka, wrote: ‘I have travelled to many big cities but Bangkok is my favourite: good value for money, people are friendly, great food, shopping, night life and safety, and the service you you get is world standard. Whether with family or alone, Bangkok is “THE” place.’
Must-try food and drink in Bangkok
If you’re a foodie visiting Bangkok, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Its reputation for incredible, authentic street food makes it a perfect spot for trialling all sorts of dishes on a budget. Try the Bib Gourmand-recognised Sae Phun for moreish chicken stew and rice priced at just 65 baht (£1.39), or stuff yourself with award-winning wok-fried noodles and meats at Guay Tiew Khua Gai Suanmali for as little as 100 baht (£2.14).
Jay Fai, which operates from a bare-bones shop on Maha Chai Road, is another Bangkok institution that many say is worth the long queues, and it’s even earned a Michelin star for its crab omelettes.
Wherever you go, just make sure to try local staples like pad thai (done properly), som tam papaya salad, pad krapao, mango sticky rice, and sweet noodle dish bokkia.
Alternatively, if you’re after a more refined experience, Bangkok has a range of acclaimed fine dining restaurants to choose from. Check out those on the World’s Best list above, or have a nose on the Michelin website for guides.
Things to do in Bangkok
You can only do so much eating on your trip, but there’s thankfully plenty to fill the time between meals here.
No holiday in Bangkok would be complete without a sightseeing visit to the iconic 16th-century shrine of Wat Pho, as well as the royal complex of Wat Phra Kaew and the Grand Palace.
On Saturdays and Sundays, head to Chatuchak Weekend Market for a browse, or check out Talat Rot Fai Srinakharin and Artbox night markets after dark. You can also get your shop on at one of Bangkok’s megamalls: Siam Paragon, centralwOrld, MBK Center and Emquartier.
A boat trip on the Chao Phraya River is ideal for seeing the city from a different angle, as is the SkyWalk at King Power Mahanakhon, which offers 360° views from 1017ft – that is if you’re brave enough.
How to get there
Thai Airways, Air Canada, EVA Air and British Airways all fly direct to Bangkok, with return fares from London starting at £391 according to Skyscanner.
If you get a direct flight to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, the average flight time is just under 12 hours.
When to visit Bangkok
Bangkok is hot no matter what time of year you visit – in April, the warmest month, you’re looking at highs of roughly 35°C.
However, late November to mid-January is known as the ‘cool season,’ with temperatures averaging at a far more comfortable 22°C.
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December is also the least rainy month, but if you don’t mind packing an umbrella, you can get the cheapest flights in September (peak monsoon season).
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