The best restaurants and cafes in Phloen Chit

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.

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),...

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...

Chef Antoine Darquin and sommelier Théo Lavergne took over the space that used to be Gaggan's natural wine bar Wet and transformed it completely. Where Wet was deliberately dark and cave-like, Bisou is sleek and modern with abundant natural light during the day. Come evening though, the whole thing shifts. Warm seductive lighting takes over, spiral mirrored staircase becomes properly atmospheric, French kiss-themed film posters on the walls start making sense. The tagline is 'Keep it simple and sexy' and it is. The ground floor has a lively bar, upstairs is more refined and private, kitchen counter if you want to watch the chefs work. Earned a spot in the 2025 Michelin Guide, wine list is genuinely impressive, homemade limoncello at the end is a nice touch. European sophistication with Bangkok prices that won't make you wince (too much). Location: 68, Lumpini Sub-District, 9 Langsuan, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok

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. ...

Autumn’s magic comes alive at Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, where the hotel’s restaurants and bars beautifully capture the season’s spirit. At Arva, Chef Edoardo Traverso celebrates the Italian harvest with dishes that are both heartwarming and refined, from parmigiana d’autunno, a pumpkin terrine with roasted pumpkin seeds and amaretti crumble, to risotto ai funghi porcini with carnaroli rice and aged parmigiano, followed by seasonal desserts such as torta di castagne, poached pears in spiced red wine and indulgent millefoglie. Meanwhile, 1872 presents an autumn afternoon tea inspired by the soft light and tranquillity of Nai Lert Park itself, featuring pumpkin and mushroom amuse bouche, savoury treats such as goat’s cheese with poached pear and lobster tartlet and sweets such as vanilla parfait and tangerine roll cake, accompanied by your choice of milk tea scones. As the day winds down, the terrace at 1872 offers a front-row view of the autumn sunset, where cocktails, including 1872 martini and blossom negroni, crafted with local botanicals and century-old tea traditions, turn a simple aperitivo into a sensory celebration.  Price for three-course dishes at Arva starts at B1,800. Reserve via here, midday-2.30pm (lunch) and 5.30pm-10.30pm (dinner). Price for afternoon tea at 1872 starts at B3,900 (two guests). Reserve via here, 2pm-5pm. 1872, open daily 11am-11pm. Reserve via here. 

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!

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? 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. 

There’s a lot going on in Langsuan. A number of cool establishments have been popping up in the upscale residential neighborhoods over the last few years, from eateries serving fresh premium ingredients to greengrocers to posh condominium complexes and hotels. One of these newest additions is Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok, Thailand’s first Kimpton-branded hotel, located within the Sindhorn Village mixed-use mega-project. For those who are new to the brand, Kimpton is part of the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) family of hotel brands. From its playful and sophisticated design to award-winning restaurants and bars, the luxury boutique brand is known for creating immersive guest experiences that foster genuine human connection. The luxury hotel is set to officially open its doors in October, but it’s giving Bangkokians a taste of what to expect by first opening up its lobby café CRAFT. As its name implies, CRAFT prioritizes craftsmanship in every aspect of its business, from the natural wood and rock decorative details that make up its interiors to the coffee it serves to the service it offers. Grab a seat by the coffee counter and order yourself a serious cuppa brewed from high-quality beans sourced from Thai and foreign suppliers, including Bangkok-based brand Kad Kokao, local growers in Mae Tang, and growers in Costa Rica and Vietnam. A cup of regular coffee is, amazingly, priced as low as B90. If you’re in the mood to try something more atypical, try either the...