In Soi 3/1, Petra, despite being named after the Jordanian ruins, has specialized in the cuisine of Yemen for 30 years. The atmosphere is typical for the street, decidedly humble, with good vibes brought by the jolly owner with the thin moustache whose likeness graces the sign outside. It’s a rustic version of Arab food, with hefty dishes and massive portions. Mandi, for instance, is a representative dish of the nation, in which smokey meats are married to biryani in a sealed vessel traditionally buried underground. Petra’s musakka bears little in common with the more frequently encountered Greek version, with thick slices of eggplant in a richly spiced sauce. Wipe everything up with some of the baby blanket-sized portions of naan.
75/4 Sukhumvit Soi 3/1, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana. 098-967-1206. Open Daily 8am-3am