W-One At Bangkoknoi Hotel

When the chef-owner’s family runs a wholesale seafood business, you can guarantee that her menu will be based on great fish and shellfish dishes, with enough choices to keep everyone happy – and at prices that keep everyone returning. Don’t miss the steamed sea bass with lime, or the stir-fried squid with salted egg. It’s a huge operation with four dining areas, but it’s run with reassuringly calm efficiency. Even with all this space, arrive early on weekends to avoid a long wait.

With its blue-framed windows, green façade and bright blue door, this welcoming place instantly makes an impression. Inside, raw cement walls and a wooden ceiling make for an industrial yet relaxing vibe. The food, made using fresh ingredients from the northeast, boasts Isan flavours – the som tam and grilled meats are boldly seasoned and well-executed. Generous portions are ideal for sharing, and spice levels can be tailored to your liking.

Northern Thai food has a special place in the hearts of locals, but finding good food like this outside the region can be tough. So Huen Lamphun is a gem of a find, to such an extent that large groups from the neighbourhood return in droves. Every dish uses organic vegetables grown onsite. The grilled, fermented northern Thai pork in banana leaf explodes with chilli and garlic. Another favourite is Makwan-marinated grilled chicken with a peppery flavour and herbal aroma.

This gem of a place serves fresh seafood with Thai flavours, featuring house-made curry and chilli paste. Order in advance or call to check availability. Try the stir-fried crab with bird's eye chilli or the non-spicy stir-fried squid with curry powder.

This spot is best known for its deep-fried bananas. Coated in crispy batter made from coconut and white sesame, they exude a rich coconut aroma. The sweet potato balls are another standout. Be prepared for queues during peak hours.

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.

Simple in its design, with a white pavilion and modest dining tables, the restaurant also offers some outdoor seating. The owners are hands-on, preparing every dish with care. The stir-fried crab has a naturally sweet meat and wok-fried aroma, and is served with glass noodles, spicy chilli and crunchy mimosa. The large butterfly-cut river fish is nicely char-grilled. The grilled river prawns, meanwhile, are clearly the people’s favourite.