The best restaurants and cafes in Phloen Chit

If you consider yourself an avid foodie, then you’re probably familiar with the delectable fare at long-established eatery Quince. The restaurant, which first opened about a decade ago on Soi Sukhumvit 45, was one of the very first dining establishments in Bangkok to champion produce-driven international cuisine and wood-fire cooking. The restaurant moved to multi-concept space Siri House in Chidlom a few years ago and recently came under the reins of American chef Steve Doucakis (formerly at Jean-Georges and Isa Restaurant in New York, as well as Little Donkey and Bunker in Bangkok). The restaurant’s essence, however, has not changed—Quince still serves mouth-watering and aromatic dishes with a hint of char. As it marks its 10th anniversary this year (which also coincides with its inclusion on the list of Asia’s best restaurants), Quince will host a celebration that sees the launch of an updated menu. Leading the pack of highly recommended dishes are Salmon Nori Taco (B190/piece), which stuffs seaweed tortilla with fresh salmon seasoned with spicy sesame aioli; and Australian Lamb Sweetbreads (B340), a perfectly cooked appetite-invigorating dish. Though you have lighter, healthier fare such as Endive & Comte Salad (B360), Quince’s expertise really lies in big and meaty dishes like Aged Duck Breast (B760), Spiced Lamb Rump (B650) and Diamantina Wagyu Hanger Steak (B1,080). A smoky flavor is also added to Quince’s new sweet release Milk Ice Cream & Burnt Orange (B180),...

What is it?: A low-key hotspot for classic and regional Mexican flavours on the upper floors of Phloen Chit’s Mahatun Plaza. Why we love it: Only 10 years ago, Mexican food was largely unknown in Bangkok. At best, there were simple casual-dining spots where you could get some decent tacos and a pitcher of margaritas (La Monita, just downstairs from Santiaga, being a prime example). However, Mexican food can be so much more, and in Thailand it’s a natural fit. The crossover in ingredients is massive – chillis, limes and cilantro, of course, and even more niche items like crickets and ant eggs – but Santiaga is one of the first restaurants to explore that potential. The upper floor of the two-story space is dedicated to a la carte options made with aplomb, but real heads go upstairs and then back downstairs to the counter area, where Chef Mauricio Rosales’ set menu provides a culinary tour of Mexico, from the Northern deserts to the Southern jungles and everywhere in between. Time Out tip: As befitting a Mexican restaurant of this calibre, the mezcal list is extensive, with diverse options that range from light to smoky, from young and grassy to aged and brandy-smooth. The pechuga, made with a turkey breast in the still, is especially delightful.

Just for a moment, picture stepping into a world where the sounds of the city fade away and you find yourself transported to the heart of a lush jungle. At COBA, Bangkok's exciting new culinary sensation, that's the experience you can expect. Surrounded by towering greenery, cascading plants and the soul of nature, diners are treated to a multi-sensory experience. The blend of jungle aesthetics with fine-dining creates an atmosphere so captivating, you'll feel like you've stepped into a tropical rainforest. The mastermind behind this jungle oasis is the acclaimed Michelin-starred chef and visionary culinary curator Olivier Limousin, with his years of expertise honed in globally renowned Michelin-starred kitchens, he has created a menu that's as imaginative as it is delicious in collaboration with COBA and executive chef Sebastien Lallane. This team has crafted a culinary journey that marries the bold, rich flavours of Latin America with the refined techniques of French cuisine. From the moment you sit down, you'll be taken on a pulsating sensory journey through bold, creative flavours. A Tapas Tower is the star of the meal and features perfectly seared tuna tataki with a citrusy dressing, delicate confit scallops paired with tangy umeboshi and rich, buttery wagyu tartare that highlights the beef's deep umami. The unexpected fusion of flavours continues with humita gyoza filled with creamy sweetness, complemented by the salty, savoury kick of Joselito Iberico ham – a...

What is it?: Elements, at the Okura Prestige, is a refined French restaurant with subtle Japanese influences that’s sure to impress. Why we love it: Executive chef Sebastiaan Hoogewerf and chef de cuisine Gerard Villaret Horcajo create culinary magic. Think melt-in-your-mouth Hokkaido scallop tempura and world-class smoked eel with caviar. The elegant atmosphere, the quiet thrill of the open kitchen, and impeccably crafted dishes come together for an evening to remember. Plus, the flexible menu lets you tailor your experience – don’t miss add-ons like the Barbary duck or the unique binchotan charcoal cake. Every bite is a perfect balance of flavor, and the service? Exceptional.   Time Out tip: Love wine? The pairing is phenomenal! But for something different, try the house-brewed kombucha pairing – it’s refreshing and totally unique. Snag a seat near the open kitchen to watch the chefs in action – it’s like dinner and a show!

Derived from the meaning ‘before’ and ‘ahead’, Avant reflects Chef Haikal Johari's inspiring journey of resilience following a life-altering accident. Perched on the 30th floor of the Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, overlooking the prestigious Lang Suan Road, Avant offers an intimate and refined French fine dining experience, artfully infused with Asian influences. In this serene setting, the dedicated team delivers an unforgettable culinary journey, blending elegance with heartfelt subtlety. With only ten seats at the low dining counter, Avant creates a highly personalised dining experience, allowing guests to witness the chefs' artistry firsthand. For those preferring a more private setting, a dedicated dining room offers a comfortable, home-inspired atmosphere. This restaurant elevates French cuisine to extraordinary levels, thanks to Chef Haikal Johari's masterful blend of Japanese, Thai, and Singaporean influences. Standout creations, such as the 36-month aged comté with caviar and cheese ice cream, or the exquisitely crafted harenohi tomato paired with tuna, highlight his exceptional creativity and flair. The restaurant's contemporary Japanese-inspired design and its high-floor location in the Kimpton Maa-Lai enhance the overall dining experience. Embark on a seafood-focused culinary journey at Avant, with lunch (B4,200) and dinner (B5,900) menus showcasing Chef Haikal's inventive creations. 30/F Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok 78 Soi Ton Son, Lumphini, Pathum Wan. 082-466-4962. ...

The Italian restaurant that has long been Phuket’s pride has finally opened an outpost in Bangkok in Chidlom. The popular restaurant is run by Alessandro Frau, a winner of Iron Chef Thailand, who injects Sardinian flavors into fine Italian dishes.

What is it? Since opening its doors in 2001, the New York Steakhouse at the JW Marriott has remained the gold standard for the quintessential American dining experience in the capital. While Bangkok’s dining scene is notoriously fickle, this institution has thrived by doubling down on tradition. Chef Samarn, a fixture of the kitchen since 2005, oversees an operation that feels timeless. This is a place of white tablecloths, heavy silverware and the kind of hushed, high-stakes atmosphere where business empires are built over martinis and ribeyes. Why we love it: In an era of minimalist, ‘industrial-chic’ dining, there is something deeply comforting about the unapologetic maximalism here. The oversized leather chairs and sprawling tables are designed for long, indulgent evenings. The service is a choreographed dance – doting and precise without ever feeling overbearing. Whether you’re seated in a plush corner booth or in the heart of the room, the experience feels like a private audience with a culinary legend. It’s the ‘real deal’ classic steakhouse experience, polished to a high mirror shine. Time Out tip: The move here is the signature spice-rubbed Wagyu Tomahawk, a gargantuan cut that is carved with theatrical precision at your table side. To complete the retro-glamour experience, order the Caesar salad – it is prepared from scratch using the original 1920s Tijuana recipe, tossed and emulsified right before your eyes in a performance that justifies every bit of the hype....

This restaurant brings a contemporary twist to the fine dining experience, with a strong focus on locally procured ingredients from selected farmers and producers. Award-winning chef Pongtawat "Ian" Kittichai, the founder, designs his menus around authentic Thai tastes and aromas. In addition to offering dishes inspired by the four main regions of Thailand, the restaurant hosts special events that appeal to food enthusiasts. Whether you're in the mood for a fine dining course (B1,800) or prefer an a la carte option, there's something here for anyone craving true local flavours.

What is it? The Sindhorn Kempinski's all-day dining restaurant Flourish runs a khao chae set that keeps things elegant without overcomplicating them. The jasmine-infused rice arrives soaked in cool, fragrant water alongside a considered selection of side dishes – stuffed banana chilli with shrimp and minced pork wrapped in egg nets, and a mango salad with crispy shrimp among them. Why we love it: There's a lightness to this version that makes it feel genuinely seasonal rather than simply ceremonial. The three-tier pricing structure: dine-in, takeaway box and kajood basket – a traditional Thai bamboo basket. Time Out tip: The lunch-only window (noon-3pm) keeps this feeling special rather than ubiquitous. The kajood basket at B1,990 is the one to go for if presentation matters.  Flourish, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok. 80 Wireless Rd, Lumpini. Dine-in from B990; takeaway from B1,290; kajood basket B1,990. Noon-3pm daily from March 5-April 30. 

SIWILAI City Club welcomes SAOLE as its new restaurant partner, introducing a seafood-led menu shaped by the flavours of the coast and the mountain roots that inspire the brand. The cooking blends Mediterranean, Yunnan and Lao influences, leaning into clean, wood-smoked dishes layered with wild herbs and sea salt. Highlights include gambero rosso with fish sauce, scallops in butter garlic, white chives with oyster, and SIWILAI-exclusive grilled king river prawn with lemon capers. Two signature spritzes – heatwave negro and saole – round out the experience with a bright, sun-soaked character. It is an easygoing, flavour-driven addition to the rooftop, designed for relaxed meals, good music and the city’s shifting light. Reserve via 02 160 5631. SAOLE at SIWILAI City Club, Central Embassy. 10am-10pm.