The best way to describe it? ‘Japanese style with Thai ingredients.’ But honestly, that doesn’t quite capture the creative invention at play here.
We showed up hungry and left wishing we could have kept eating—every dish was peak performance. Hold on to your hats when you taste the house-made ponzu sauce.
One of the absolute highlights of our time in Chiang Mai, and we’re already counting down the days until we can return.
8-10 Samlarn Road, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai, 50200, ThailandWebsite
We secured our spot at the counter and watched as Chef Shin delicately crafted his signature bowls. His philosophy? ‘Ramen can make people happy.’ Judging by the smiles (and slurping), he’s absolutely right.
Seats are limited, so play by the rules and book for the week ahead on Sunday mornings.
These are bowls of slurping fun you won’t want to miss.
1/2 Soi Athakravi 1, Sukhumvit 26 Road, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand
Website
Once again, Taln and Aum’s interior design shines. The space is expansive and stunning, managing to feel both minimal and warm. As with their other concepts, the interiors celebrate ingredients and the craft of making.
The three of us worked through a comprehensive menu with zero missteps. Creativity, complexity, and clean flavours—this bar delivers.
Last to leave? Guilty. This is a serious hangout spot.
Baan Trok Tua Ngork, Santiphap Road, Bangkok, Thailand 10100
Website
The menu is split into Starters, Mains, and Afters, with drinks inspired by dishes like satay, ramen, and fish soup alongside other bold, creative combos. We worked our way through quite a few—from the approachable to the downright challenging. It’s not for everyone, and that’s exactly why we love it.
Oh, and the journey doesn’t stop there. Next door is Lime, a modern tropical drinks bar by the same inspirational team. Two stops, one unforgettable experience.
61/37 Soi Sukhumvit 26, Klongtan, Klongtoei, Bangkok, Thailand 10110
Website
With a great soundtrack and perfect hospitality, it’s hard to imagine what more you’d want.
60-62 Thapae Road, Chiang Mai
Website
23 Thapae Road, 2nd Floor (Kiti Panit), Chiang Mai
Website
Service is friendly and attentive, with a menu rooted in local, sustainable ingredients.
Standout dishes? It’s hard to pick when our table of six gave every dish a 10/10. Personally I loved the miso-cured trout, and a venison haunch that still lingers in the memory. Portions are generous yet refined; sides only if you’re “ridiculously hungry.”
The cheese board was a delightful spread with supplier tales to match.
File under: Generous hospitality.
2 Main St, West Tanfield, Ripon HG4 5JJ
Website
But we’re committed supporters of their Late Plates nights. A never-failing, ever-evolving and revolving menu that takes inspiration from amazing cultures from around the world. This month was a warming Jamaican special, all tings goat, plantain and rum - served up with smiles from their cracking staff.
Food fi di soul.
53 Princes Ave, Hull HU5 3QY
Website
You get a real sense of Thailand here—in a modern way, without the pastiche of a theme restaurant. It took us back to the place we love, minus the 12-hour flight.
6 Park St, London SE1 9AB
Website