Kraprib Premsinee

Attempting to put together a list of the 50 best restaurants in Bangkok is an unenviable task. No matter how hard you try, you’re going to be leaving out not just good restaurants, but mind-bendingly good restaurants. Indeed, the process of assembling the following list involved not only signal-boosting some of our favourite culinary craftspeople, but also a painful triage of a host of excellent venues. That’s just how dense with excellence this city is when it comes to quality dining.  What makes eating out here so brilliant is the sheer diversity – both cultural and economic – of the Big Mango’s food scene and our top 50 aims to reflect that. Were we to focus purely on the set-menu avant-garde and quiet-luxury omakase counters, it would be a disservice to a readership that doesn’t just want food to look at, photograph and read about, but wants to eat. Therefore, we include some of the city’s most dazzling palaces of haute cuisine alongside humble streetside vendors. We’re serious eaters more than withering critics, and Bangkok is a city full of serious eats. Hence, we want to share our favourites and leave it to you, the reader, to be the withering critic. Dive in and enjoy the ride!

As the saying goes, one man's trash is another man's treasure. Vintage shopping is more than just finding rare pieces; it's about uncovering the stories behind fashion, accessories and collectibles while also exploring your personal style without spending a fortune. It offers the double benefit of saving money and reducing waste. I mean, what's not to love? Bangkok’s vintage scene has something for every style and budget. From curated high-end selections to thrifted gems priced by weight, these stores offer a mix of nostalgia, craftsmanship and sustainable fashion. Here’s a roundup of some of the best spots to explore, from hidden gems to well-loved favourites.

The centre of it all – Asoke, or Sukhumvit Soi 21 – is a bustling area home to hordes of office workers and foreign tourists. The iconic intersection is surrounded by commercial buildings like Interchange and Exchange Tower, hotels like Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit and Westin Grande Sukhumvit, retail malls such as Terminal 21 and Robinson as well as the Korean Town community space. It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors and easily accessible by the BTS Asoke and MRT Sukhumvit. When it comes to dining, the options here may be more understated compared to other areas, but if you take a closer look, you’ll uncover hidden gems – from cafes to international restaurants. Here are some must-visit spots to enjoy a delightful meal. 

Coming up is one of Thailand's biggest festivals, celebrating the Thai New Year in an energetic and joyful way. There are many ways to take part in the Songkran festivities, but the most iconic tradition is hitting the streets for a water fight with friends and even strangers. For those seeking a different experience, travelling to other provinces – especially the beaches – offers a perfect mix of relaxation and fun. But are you ready? Is your bag packed with summer-ready outfits? A  familiar face in the Thai fashion business, Polpat Asavaprapha, founder and designer of Asava Group and chairman of Bangkok Fashion Society (BFS) shares his thoughts on getting into the Songkran festive mood through outfits. ‘This Songkran, I think the trend will be all about vivid colours. Floral prints are always a classic, but I have a feeling elephant patterns will be popular this year too. Mixing prints – like pairing florals with stripes – can make your look stand out instead of sticking to just one pattern.’   ‘Clashing prints makes it even more fun because Songkran is all about joy and celebration. Experimenting with your look will add to the excitement of the holiday.’ Chatuchak market, Platinum fashion mall, and the Train night market are great go-to spots for an easy and convenient outfit hunt. But if you're looking to add a stylish touch to your holiday wardrobe while supporting local talent, here’s a list of Thai brands worth checking out.

Bangkok’s dining scene never ceases to impress with new restaurants constantly adding fresh energy to the city’s vibrant food landscape. While elegant fine dining establishments often steal the spotlight with their refined menus and impeccable presentation, casual eateries play an equally important role in shaping the city’s culinary identity. From bustling street-side stalls to trendy bistros, these spots capture the capital’s lively spirit through bold flavours, creative concepts and inviting atmospheres. If you’re planning a romantic evening for two, a laid-back family dinner or even a solo food adventure, there’s no shortage of exciting options. The city’s diverse culinary landscape continues to expand, offering everything from Cantonese and French delicacies to comforting Burmese dishes. Whether you’re drawn to modern fusion cuisine or timeless classics, there’s always something new to discover.

Phrom Phong, known for its luxury shopping and trendy cafes, is also home to some of Bangkok’s most exciting bars. With a blend of elegance and laid-back charm, the area is a hotspot for cocktail enthusiasts and night owls alike. From rooftop lounges with stunning skyline views to hidden speakeasies, Phrom Phong brings a variety of bar concepts together in one neighbourhood. There’s no better way to dive into a city’s nightlife than by hopping from one bar to the next, discovering heady cocktails, cosy atmospheres and hidden gems along the way. And in Bangkok, Phrom Phong is the ultimate bar-hopping destination. So, now is the time to grab your friends, pace yourself and explore this dynamic drinking district. Here are our picks to get you started.

Who can resist the charm of a delicious doughnut? Whether you’re indulging in a post-meal dessert or satisfying an unexpected sweet craving, doughnuts remain a timeless and irresistible treat. With their fluffy dough, endless flavor combinations, and creative toppings or fillings, they’re far more than just a simple ring of fried dough.   In Bangkok, the city’s undeniable sweet tooth is on full display through the abundance of doughnut shops scattered across town. Each one brings its own flair to the classics while offering inventive twists to satisfy the ever-growing demand for sugary indulgence. But which one reigns supreme? Join us on a mouthwatering journey to discover the best doughnuts in the city!

Chiang Mai is a city full of vibrant colours, offering something for everyone – whether you're exploring ancient temples, immersing yourself in nature, or relaxing in its cosy cafes. Nestled in the mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is rich in heritage and culture, historically the centre of the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Today, it stands as one of Thailand’s most popular destinations, surrounded by lush hills and the Ping River that runs through the city. Over time, the city has evolved, embracing a modern, creative energy. You'll find stylish boutique hotels, green co-working spaces and a thriving university scene. Many of these places stay true to the city’s culture, allowing visitors a genuine taste of the essence of Chiang Mai. Here are eight must-do experiences to make the most of your time in Chiang Mai. Did something on this list and loved it? Share it with #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. Find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world.

Traditional Thai beauty rituals, passed down through generations, reflect the healing power of nature and the country’s culture. These practices combine timeless wisdoms with natural elements, offering a gentle and holistic approach to self-care. Thai herbs and flowers, such as lemongrass, jasmine and lotus, have long been cherished for their soothing and restorative benefits.  Today, a number of local beauty brands incorporate modern touches and Western influences through marketing and eco-friendly packaging, offering products that balance the traditional with the contemporary. In the whirlwind of modern living, where stress and fatigue are common challenges, exploring Thai wellness options leads to natural healing and the chance to reconnect with timeless traditions. Here are the Thai brands reflecting this beautiful heritage. 

In recent years, Thai cinema has been capturing global attention, earning its place on international streaming platforms. Netflix, in particular, has been actively curating a collection of Thai films. The Thai film industry has grown and expanded over the years, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from classic Thai cinema, filmmakers have skilfully crafted narratives that resonate with both local and international audiences. The result is a diverse catalogue of films that beautifully bridge cultural heritage with modern sensibilities. Below, we've compiled a curated list of must-watch Thai films available on Netflix, featuring a compelling mix of timeless classics and exciting new releases that allow you to experience Thai culture through the lens of the Thai people.

One of the most culturally rich streets in the city with historic buildings over a century old, Soi Nana preserves a timeless charm. But peep behind the period façades and you’ll find renovation taking place, with fresh bar concepts giving many vintage structures a new lease of life.

A lively neighbourhood conveniently accessible via the BTS Skytrain, Ari is the place to look for colourful cafes, art community spaces, shopping outlets, and dining spots with a cosy atmosphere. Undergoing gentrification all the time, it nevertheless blends the old and new, as witnessed in by its many choices of street food and contemporary dining. Ari has a strong sense of community, where every corner tells the stories of the people who live there. It’s a great place to discover the culture of Thailand, experiencing it through the everyday lives of its locals. The highlight of Ari today is its popularity as a food and drink hub. What makes the neighbourhood stand out is the blend of the latest dining spots and long-established restaurants, all set in a calm atmosphere – no rush here, just a relaxed vibe. You can begin your day with a coffee and pastry at a cosy café, followed by a rejuvenating session at one of the area’s peaceful spas. A stroll around the neighbourhood invites window shopping and art gallery displays, perfect for enjoying the sunny weather. As the evening approaches, the local restaurants and bars offer the ideal setting to enjoy great food and drinks. Ari is the ultimate one-stop destination for a relaxing, feel-good day.

From an old underground medicine storage room belonging to the Mor Mee family to Philtration, a hidden bar inside the family’s vintage white house in Kasemsan. The house itself was built by a team of Italian craftsmen – the same team behind the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Mor Mee is a Thai family-run business that has been operating for 114 years. The bar honours this legacy by preserving its underground secretive atmosphere, with unfinished touches like aged wallpaper that reflect its origins as a former apothecary. Philtration highlights the value of Thai herbs and the art of tea blending, focusing on turning the spotlight on local Thai ingredients. Committed to using every part of the component to minimise waste, the drinks menu follows the apothecary concept with a focus on health and wellness. A signature drink is philsper martini, a cocktail that claims to aid detoxification, help better sleep and relieve headaches. Another highlight is opium den, crafted with Thai herbs like cha-plu and lotus flower, known for supporting healthy blood pressure and helping regulate blood sugar levels. 2 Kasem San 3, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan. 092-282-9005. Open daily 6pm-12am. 

Hidden beneath Metropole Residence, this bar can only be accessed through a fire exit door – and just when you think you’ve found it, you’re met with yet another surprise, a handle-less dark oak door that sparks curiosity. Step inside and you’ll find a modern, Japanese-inspired space featuring a stone bar and wooden tables. A private seating area with long sofas facing each other, framed by artistic wall paintings, offers a cosy, intimate space to unwind. The vibe is elevated further with a daily DJ lineup. The cocktails reinterpret simplicity into something fresh with creative twists including cherry cola, late night coconut and New York lemon cream. 5/9 Prom Sri 1, Sukhumvit Soi 39, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 098-280-2984. Open daily 7pm-2am. 

Widdershins, a German word meaning anti-clockwise or counterclockwise, sets the bar’s vibe with a wall clock at its heart. While it’s located in Dragon Street (Yaowarat), known for its Chinese culture, stepping inside feels like a shift in direction. Customers leave the bustling Chinatown behind and enter a Western-style escape with both counter bar and private seating, where the decor offers a refreshing change from everything outside. What makes it even more fascinating is that it’s hidden inside a Chinese restaurant, Laoteng. They also have a blind-picking cocktail service, where guests choose a card from a deck, and the bartender creates a special drink based on their choice. 438 Yaowarat Rd, Samphanthawong. 095-987-9239. Open daily Sun-Thu 6pm-12am, Fri-Sat 6pm-1am.   

The bar’s name comes from a literal meaning you’d never expect. In room 72 of Josh Hotel in the heart of Ari, this hidden bar adds a playful twist – you’ll need a special key card to unlock the door, just like checking into a hotel room. Inside, the vibe is retro, with jazzy, funky tunes setting the mood and a red-hued interior that channels the charm of the ’60s and ’70s from the wallpaper to the furniture. The cocktail menu is inspired by the (fictional) travels of Mr. Josh, the hotel’s imagined protagonist. Each drink tells a story from his journey across the world, using ingredients that reflect the culture and character of each destination from Japan and China to France and the US. 19/2 Josh Hotel, Ari Soi 4, Phaya Thai. 02-102-4999. Open daily 6pm-1am.

This two-storey bar is hidden behind a set of lockers – you’ll need to figure out how to open the hidden door to step inside. Once in, you’re greeted by a raw, industrial vibe with dim lighting and exposed concrete walls. The space is divided into a cosy sofa lounge and a bar counter, making it perfect for any occasion and company. The bar brings together a team of talented bartenders from across Asia including Singapore, Japan, Taiwan and Thailand, who have collaborated to create a selection of cocktails and mocktails. Known for its creativity, the menu here centres around the use of plants in every form – from leaves, fruits and flowers to roots and stems – under the concept of past, present and future. Highlights include restless palates, a cocktail inspired by the beloved fidget toy craze of the 2010s; mushroom kingdom, a tribute to Mario and Nintendo’s 90s heyday; and targets locked, a drink influenced by Blackpink. Each cocktail draws from viral moments of the past, reimagining them in the present to create a nostalgic feel, while also representing the future as a forward-looking twist. To accompany the drinks, there are dim sum-style small dishes. 406 Thong Lor, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 098-287-1898. Open daily 6pm-1.45am.   

Renowned for its diverse music lineup, Black Cabin invites a range of performers from outside the mainstream. It’s a live music venue where artists can explore their own style and sound, playing what they love. As a home of contemporary live music in Bangkok, Black Cabin serves as a space to showcase talent alongside craft beers and cocktails. The space, with its all-black design and red neon lights, gives off a raw, energetic vibe. They also offer small bites to complement the drinks. 466, Thong Lor Soi 16, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 081-599-9365. Open Tue-Sun 7pm-2am.

Blessing Shophouse is set in an old townhouse that once served as the family home of the bar’s owner, before being renovated into a two-storey cocktail bar. Chinese elements are woven into the details – from the oval doorway and art deco-style window panes to the use of bamboo. The signature cocktails are all inspired by Chinese culture, including one that draws from auspicious fruits. The bar also doesn’t forget its Thai roots – like in the cup of cha cha, a Thai tea infusion blended with jasmine tea and sweetened with ginger candy. Another highlight is Five Spices, a rum-based cocktail infused with traditional Chinese spices such as cinnamon, star anise, Sichuan pepper, clove and cumin. And the secret? The entrance has been moved to the alley behind the building to avoid disturbing the neighbours – making it a little tricky for some to find. 6-5 Sukhumvit Soi 14, Khlong Toei. 095-596-4655. Open Wed-Sun 6pm-12am. 

After closing for around four years, Find the Photo Booth is finally back in a brand-new location. The venue still centres around strong live music with a daily line-up. To begin your experience, follow the path to the photo booth with a sticker saying ‘out of service’ and from there, the rest is yours to uncover. You’ll step into a dimly lit space with curved furniture flowing through the room and a central bar. The cocktail menu is inspired by musical chords including A flat, B minor, E seventh and F seventh. A selection of small bites is also available, each paired to enhance your drink and the overall harmony of the night. 1/F Bantathong Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan. 080-078-9265. Open daily 6pm-1.30am.

A bar where you must dial a secret code on a phone booth outside to enter. Once you make the call, the door opens, revealing a vintage bar inspired by 1940s Cuba. Inside, you'll find walls with scattered vintage wallpaper, hanging clothes, retro frames and much more, all accompanied by Latin music.  The cocktail menu takes you on a journey through both pre- and post-revolution Cuba, with drinks including between the sheets, smoked caju, and Jamaican rhapsody representing the pre-revolution era, while Fidel’s nightcap, peanut butter old fashioned, and wan tong reflect the post-revolution period. 41 Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana. 02-821-6111. Open daily 6pm-2am.

Fashionable yet functional, April Pool Day brings fresh colours to your wardrobe with swimwear designed to double as everyday wear. Their palettes set a bright summer tone – think colour contrasts like red and blue, alongside a selection of stripes, plaids and animal print swimwear to mix and elevate your summer energy. The store also includes male swimsuits, kids’ options and cover-ups for layering with the swimwear as well. 15 Sathon Soi 9, Yan Nawa, Sathon. 098-246-5369. Open daily 10.30am-6pm.   

What is it? Henk Savelberg brings his legendary cooking style and quality straight to his own restaurant, where every dish tells a story of his passion and expertise. Why we love it: A Michelin-starred contemporary French restaurant with a spacious layout featuring a ground floor dining area and an upper-level wine lounge. As you step through the door, you’ll find shelves filled with Michelin guides from around the world at your right as it is a chef's space full of knowledge resources. Large windows offer a beautiful garden view, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere and also space for private group dining available. The six-course menu takes you on a journey through innovative, fresh ingredients like royal oscietra caviar, langoustine, hokkaido scallop, lobster and sweetbread, kagoshima wagyu A5, and more. A true feast for the senses! Timeout Tip: One of his signature dishes, a blend of summer flavours from the South of France, is the grilled wild northern sea turbot with bay leaves, featured for a true Savelberg experience. Don’t miss out on their promotion, pairing the course menu with renowned wine brands.

What is it? A Michelin two-star restaurant offering German fine dining prepared by brothers Mathias and Thomas Sühring. The twins conjure childhood memories to bring contemporary twists to traditional classics. Why we love it: This homey restaurant – once a 1970s private residence, now a warm and inviting contemporary eatery – features large windows that let in plenty of natural light, adding to a comfortable vibe akin to visiting a friend’s house. The theme of homeliness is also brought to life through the dishes, many of which are inspired by the chefs’ hometown favourites, family recipes, travel adventures and the culinary traditions of Central Europe. These offerings are given extra twists with techniques such as fermentation and menu changes that move with the seasons so as to take advantage of the freshest produce available at any given time of year.  Timeout Tip: Subject to availability, try to get seats with views of the open kitchen (early reservations are highly recommended) because this is where the real magic happens, and who doesn’t like a bit of culinary theatre?