Sala Arun

There are some things in life worth queuing for. Welcome to one of them. Jay Fai has long been a street food icon, and for good reason — the begoggled chef’s signature crispy, golden-brown crab omelettes are wonderful and will remain long in the memory of everyone who’s tried them. If you’re looking for another reason to love the local legend, then also try her stir-fried prawns in yellow curry or one of the many noodle dishes. The queuing system is well organised but arrive knowing you’ll have to spend time standing in line – and bring cash.

Traditional and novel converge at this Thai-Chinese fine dining restaurant from chef Pichaya “Pam” Soontornyanakij. Set in a historical Sino-Portuguese building that once housed Pam's family’s Chinese pharmacy, Potong blends rustic and modern décor from the ground-floor bar to the rooftop chill space. Her progressive tasting menu, offered as a single set with optional upgrades, is infused with storytelling and showcases creative use of Chinese ingredients. To make it even better, ask the sommelier for a wine pairing.

This well-loved little shop has been passed down the generations for over a century. They specialise in offal, and their signature dish showcases stewed pig's brain, which is prepared fresh each morning by octogenarian owner Sudjit Suranan. Try the starter of Chinese liver sausage, too.

This iconic family-run eatery serves delectable mango sticky rice made to a recipe that has been handed down the generations for 80 years. Their preparation is masterful: the flavour of the steamed sweetened sticky rice is enhanced by the richness of coconut milk.

Renowned for Hainanese-style rice noodles, Kolun.h has been serving locals since 1997. The signature dish comes with rich or clear broth, braised pork, radish and crispy pork belly. Don't miss the peppery-flavoured goat meat in an aromatic herb soup. Expect long queues at peak times.

Tucked away in a small market stall, this family-run dessert shop is famous for its sweet Bokkia. It's a unique treat: egg noodles, topped with crushed ice and syrup, which is amazingly refreshing and not too sweet. The condimental options are also good quality.

Peruvian executive chef Evens López stays true to the spirit of French fine dining, albeit with a fresh, lighter, international perspective. He thoughtfully interweaves Southeast Asian ingredients and Mediterranean flair, a refined balance exemplified by his heritage tomato starter – Thai and French tomatoes transformed into jellies and consommés, topped with crunchy almonds. The tender Mount Schank lamb rack with fig leaf is equally accomplished.