The Lantern Suites

Run by the same family for over 20 years, this restaurant is something of a hidden gem for spice-lovers. Their signature dish, jungle curry soup with hand-minced fish, provides suitably lip-smacking flavours using ingredients like red chilli, fingerroot and turkey berry. An outdoor area embraces nature, with curved tree trunk tables and an arboretum. Herbs and spices from the forest are used as seasoning, often with game meats – the succulent stir-fried deer with cumin leaves is a must.

This unassuming Thai gem delights with bold, regional dishes served in an immersive, dimly lit setting. Chef-owner Sittikorn's meticulous technique shines in his skilful updates of classic Thai recipes that change with the seasons. One notable feature is the traditional preparation in a no-frills kitchen, resulting in dishes with a rustic edge and distinct flavours. For the full experience, opt for the set menu, paired with selected Thai draft beers.

Despite its quirky name and simple interior, Beer Hima offers so much more. The family’s seafood recipes from Nakhon Si Thammarat province are loaded with flavour. The southern Thai sour curry with grouper is packed with turmeric and chilli and delivers the perfect harmony of sour and spicy, while the rich, aromatic shrimp paste in the stir-fried prawns with bitter beans awakens the senses. There’s ample parking and a private room large enough for 30 guests.

"Krua Sa Ros Jad" combines the owner's mother's name and a Thai phrase meaning "intense flavour" – an apt description of the boldly seasoned food made with fresh ingredients. Try the deep-fried fish in Choo Chee sauce, the robust, well-spiced flavour of which pairs well with the hot Tom Yum chicken soup with young tamarind leaves. The restaurant boasts a unique collection of Buddha statues and antique European ceramics, as the owner is an avid collector.

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.

With Singaporean chicken rice, Indonesian laksa and Malaysian Bak Kut Teh the highlights, Chuan Kitchen is the only restaurant in Nonthaburi offering this mix of national cuisine. Its stylish design is welcoming, with a high wooden ceiling, and floor-to-ceiling windows, accentuated by black stainless-steel frames and lighting. The nasi lemak and char kway teow are well executed, delivering a complete balance of flavours.

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