The Rich Hotel Rama 5

Don't let the name mislead you – "38" is a nod to the founder's lucky number. This porridge hotspot has been simmering since 1962, serving up porridge in its signature brass pots for three generations. Our favourite is the mixed rice porridge option.

Located in a teak house in the middle of Dhabkwan Resort, this traditional Thai restaurant opens onto a tranquil lotus pond and inviting gardens. The atmosphere perfectly matches the authentic Thai menu, which includes hard-to-find dishes like Miang Kam with lotus petals and santol curry with roasted pork. Making it even more authentic, meals are served on Benjarong porcelain. Dhabkwan also offers Thai cookery classes and is available for events.

Banya, or ‘Grandma’s house’ in Thai, embodies this maternal spirit. The menu, conceived by acclaimed culinary teacher Rachadapa Amatayakul, comprises typical Thai fare, some rarer recipes and their famous homely signature – Khao Chae. Also popular is the homemade spotted knifefish with green curry; the tender fish is an umami pleasure in an intense mix of herbs broiled in rich Thai curry. No wonder this place is always crowded with locals and foreigners.