Bangkok Launches First World Kaphrao Championship
Bangkok/ Delish/ Happenings

Spice Royale: Bangkok Hosts First World Kaphrao Championship

Spice Royale Bangkok Hosts First World Kaphrao Championship Photo by Website/World Kaphrao

Things are spicing up on the banks of Khlong Phadung Krung Kasem in Bangkok with the upcoming World Kaphrao Grand Prix 2023 taking place this weekend. This three-day event celebrates food culture in one of the premier culinary cities in Asia.

After a month-long competition featuring numerous cook-offs centered around the classic kaphrao, also known as stir-fry holy basil—a traditional Thai dish—participants from various parts of the country will take the stage on the final day of the event for a live cook-off, presenting their own interpretations of the dish under the theme "Authentic And Beyond." These creations will be sampled by top connoisseurs in Thailand.

With the aim of promoting the rich food culture of the country, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is gathering a diverse range of renditions of the Thai dish in one place. Almost 50 restaurants and street vendors will showcase their unique takes on the famous kaphrao.

In addition to the array of kaphrao-inspired dishes, international cuisine from renowned restaurants around Bangkok—including Italian, Mexican, and American dishes infused with Thai holy basil—will be served during the three-day event.

Beside the on-site cooking battle showcasing various kaphrao-inspired dishes, attendees can participate in workshops, explore a fresh market, and enjoy the lush green garden zone, all while listening to a special concert featuring renowned artists, culminating the celebration.

To learn more about the event, visit their website.

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Bangkok/ Delish/ Happenings

Step into the Year of the Snake at Chatrium Grand Bangkok

Untitled design 2025 01 22 T123138 605 Photo by Chatrium Grand Bangkok

This Lunar New Year, step into a celebration like no other at Chatrium Grand Bangkok, where timeless Chinese traditions meet culinary brilliance.

From Jan. 29 to Feb. 2, 2025, the luxury hotel will be offering up indulgent feasts, live performances, and an atmosphere brimming with festive charm.

The star of the celebration? Savio’s daily buffet, a gastronomic journey through Chinese-inspired delicacies and international favorites. Start with fresh seafood on ice, an extravagant display of blue crab, tiger prawns, and Dutch green shell mussels.

Lunch highlights include maki and nigiri sushi, while dinner ups the ante with sashimi and oysters. Other appetizers include drunken chicken, XO jellyfish salad, and shrimp fruit salad.

Goose
Courtesy of Chatrium Grand Bangkok

Craving barbecue? Dig into roasted Chinese duck and crispy pork belly, or head to the carving station for succulent suckling pig (available during dinner). Main dishes deliver comfort and flavor, from wok-fried soft-shell crab with salt and pepper to steamed sea bass with soy sauce, Yangzhou fried rice, and Hong Kong noodles.

Save room for dessert! Treat yourself to mango pudding, lotus cheese puffs, and the decadent sago with guava and pomelo.

Lion dance
Courtesy of Chatrium Grand Bangkok

On Jan. 29, don’t miss the lion dance performance at 12:30 PM, kicking off the festivities with high-energy excitement. Plus, enjoy live music from Jan. 31 to Feb. 1 (6 PM to 8:45 PM) to set the perfect festive mood.

For more information, visit Chatrium Grand Bangkok on their website, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

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Bangkok/ Delish/ Happenings

Looking for a Chao Phraya River Cruise in Bangkok? Check This Out!

Loy Pela Voyage 2 Photo by Loy Pela Cruise/Facebook

Imagine dining by the serene riverside, where every moment envelops you in a serene atmosphere that soothes the soul.

Embarking on an elegant dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River is the perfect way to experience this enchanting atmosphere.

Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Bangkok while savoring delectable cuisine on a luxurious getaway at the River of Kings. Cruising over at the Chao Phraya River can be perfect for any celebration, whether you're planning a romantic dinner cruise, a breathtaking sunset proposal, an elegant family reunion, or a fun private gathering with friends.

With a variety of dining options available, there's something for everyone — from afternoon tea to lavish dining experiences. Explore the incredible dinner cruises on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok and elevate your evening.

Apsara

Apsara Cruise at Banyan Tree Bangkok
Facebook/Banyan Tree Bangkok

Apsara Dining Cruise at Banyan Tree Bangkok offers a unique blend of royal Thai cuisine and exceptional hospitality aboard a beautifully reimagined vintage rice barge. Guests can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Thai mythology while savoring a captivating 4-Course Thai Set Menu, complemented by free-flowing soft drinks. The menu features delightful appetizers such as Mini Puff Crab Curry and Aromatic Ayutthaya River Prawn Tom Yum, along with Slow Cooked Beef Short Ribs, and ends with desserts like Lychee and Green Mango Thai Sherbet.

As you glide along the majestic Chao Phraya River, take in iconic sights like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, and be mesmerized by the intricate murals of Mekhala and Ramasura – and of course don’t forget to get that picture-perfect snap. This dining experience promises to be both enriching and memorable.

Location: Banyan Tree Bangkok, River City Pier 1, 23 Soi Charoen Krung 24, Talat Noi, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100

Cruise time: 6:45 PM to 9:45 PM (Check-in begins at 6 PM)

Price: 4-Course Thai Set Menu for THB3,800 (with wine pairing for THB4,800)

Make your reservations here.

Shangri-La Horizon Cruise

Shangri-La Horizon Cruise
Facebook/Shangri-La Bangkok

Relish in an exceptional afternoon tea at the luxurious Shangri-La Horizon Cruise, featuring a delightful selection of sweet and savory treats. Marvel at the stunning views of Thailand's iconic Temple of Dawn and The Grand Palace and take some pictures amidst the gorgeous backdrop. Savor local delights such as special homemade jam, Thai iced tea, and premium vegan ice cream, accompanied by hand-picked teas and premium coffee. Each carefully selected treat reflects Shangri-La’s ‘Rooted in Nature’ initiative, ensuring that sustainability and exceptional flavor go hand in hand.

Location: Shangri-La Bangkok, 89 Wat Suan Phlu Alley, Bang Rak, Bangkok 10500

Cruise time: 2 PM to 4 PM (Last Sunday of every month: Jan. 26, Feb. 23, and Mar. 30, 2025)

Price: THB1,950 nett per adult

Make your reservations here.

Loy Pela Cruise

Loy Pela Cruise
Facebook/Loy Pela Cruise

For an ultimate luxurious getaway, go for a cruise from Bangkok to Ayutthaya for a 2-night stay aboard Loy Pela Cruise. Choose from two stunning fleets, Loy Dream and Loy River Song Staterooms, each featuring exquisite bedrooms, lavish bathrooms, and gourmet dining prepared by elite personal chefs.

As you sail through the historic ruins and charming traditional villages, you'll embark on a journey to the ancient capital of Ayutthaya. These luxury barges are exclusively yours for up to eight guests, creating an intimate escape away from the hustle and bustle. Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast, delight in a lavish afternoon tea, and unwind on the spacious open-air sundeck, all while surrounded by the beauty of nature and history.

Location: Loy Pela Cruise, 257/1-3, Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khwaeng Samre, Thon Buri, Bangkok 10600

Cruising time: Depends on Booking

Price: THB77,500

Make your reservations here.

Pruek Cruise

Pruek Cruise
Facebook/Pruek Cruise

Pruek Cruise boasts a stunning three-story teak wood yacht, complete with a Champagne bar, rooftop garden, and luxurious indoor and outdoor dining areas, making it an ideal scenic getaway for you and your partner or family. Pruek Cruise offers a unique culinary experience, featuring dishes prepared by Michelin-starred chefs such as Arnaud Dunand Sauthier, Chef Aom from Sawaan, and Francesco from Lenzi Tuscan Kitchen.

The yacht accommodates up to 60 guests and can be customized to suit your preferences by creating unique itineraries, all while providing exceptional hospitality service. Enjoy sipping champagne during a two-hour cruise, indulge in delicious pre-dinner canapés, and savor a four-course dinner set menu paired with mocktails, cocktails, and wine. All the while, you can enjoy live music onboard.

Location: Pruek Cruise, 2074 Charoen Krung Rd, Wat Phraya Krai, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok, Thailand, Bangkok

Cruising time: 5 PM to 7 PM

Price: Dinner set menu with mocktails and soft drinks THB4,500 (with cocktails THB4,900)

Make your reservations here.

Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Chao Phraya Princess Cruise
Chao Phraya Princess Cruise

Embark on a two-hour journey aboard the luxurious Chao Phraya Princess cruise, where you can enjoy a romantic atmosphere, opulent decor, and captivating entertainment along the river. Guests will have the opportunity to view significant landmarks in Bangkok, such as Wat Kanlaya, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Arun, the Rama VIII Bridge, and the Grand Palace during the cruise.

For dinner, you can choose between two buffet options: the International Buffet Program at Iconsiam Pier or the Indian Buffet Program at Terminal 21 Rama 3 Pier. Additionally, guests will be entertained by a live band performing hits from the 80s and 90s by artists like ABBA, Donna Summer, and The Supremes.

Keep in mind that bookings for a specific day can be made until 4 PM on that day.

Location: ICONSIAM, 299 Charoen Nakhon Rd, Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San, Bangkok 10600

Cruising Time: 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM

Price: THB1,200

Make your reservations here.

Sirimahannop

Sirimahannop Cruise Asiatique
Facebook/Sirimahannop

Soak up the captivating golden hour aboard the Sirimahannop, a vessel that will take you back to the enchanting era of Thai heritage, adorned with elegant decor and historic photographs. The Sirimahannop can host up to 300 guests across two levels: the Upper Deck and the Lower Deck. Guests can enjoy al fresco dining with family and friends, featuring decadent sharing baskets along with a selection of Thai and international delicacies.

Savor an enticing selection of fresh local seafood and tapas-style plates, including highlight dishes like House Cured Dill Salmon, Smoked Peppered Mackerel, Duck Confit Gascony, and Signature Fine De Claire Oysters. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, with options like Mango Cheesecake and Chocolate Coffee Tart.

Location: Asiatique, Charoenkrung Soi 72-76 , Charoenkrung Road, Wat Phrayakrai District, Bangkor Laem, Bangkok, 10120

Cruise time: 4 PM to 12 AM

Price: THB2,888++ per person

Make your reservations here.

Manohra Cruise

Manohra Cruise
Facebook/Manohra Cruise

Step aboard the Manohra Cruise at the Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort for an idyllic ride along the River of Kings. Choose from our three stunning rice barge-converted vessels — Manohra Sun, Star, and Moon — each accommodating up to 60 guests.

As you cruise, you’ll pass by iconic attractions, including the Temple of Dawn and the Grand Palace. Delve into exceptional Thai cuisine, with an option to elevate your dining experience through our premium menu, featuring a modern twist on beloved Thai classics. Indulge in timeless dishes that showcase Thailand's rich culinary heritage, including Tom Kha Neua Pu, Goong Maenam Pao, and Mango Sticky Rice.

Location: Manohra Lounge, 257/1-3 Charoennakorn Road Samrae Thon Buri, Bangkok 10600

Cruise time: 5 PM to 7 PM; 7 PM to 9 PM; and 8:30 PM to 10:30 PM

Price: Dinner set menu for THB3,199 net per person; Premium set menu for THB4,199 net per person (Free-flow wine available for an additional THB1,000 on both menus).

Make your reservations here.

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Bangkok/ Delish/ Happenings

Aperol Partners with EDC Thailand 2025 in Phuket

Aperol x EDC Photo by Aperol

Mark your calendars as Aperol has teamed up with the much-anticipated Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Thailand 2025 in Phuket. From Jan. 17-19, 2025, all you festival-goers can sip on Aperol Spritz while taking in electrifying, world-class performances.

As an official partner of the festival, Aperol Spritz will reveal its Aperol Spritz Piazza, a chic gathering spot inspired by Italy’s classic, lively piazzas. Guests can surround themselves with Aperol’s signature orange vibes and take a breather in the seating areas.

Ahead of the festival, Aperol is rolling out pre-event promotions in selected venues across Phuket. Look out for these special deals while you’re there! It's the perfect warm-up sessions to a weekend of fun and excitement.

For more details, please visit Aperol’s website or Instagram.

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Bangkok/ Nomads/ Explore

What is 'One Bangkok' and What Can You Find There?

One Bangkok HP Photo by Facebook/ One Bangkok

One Bangkok is the ultimate new destination that is garnering all the attention right now. This groundbreaking development promises to transform the Thai real estate scene, redefine urban living, and become The Heart of Bangkok.” With a vision to provide unprecedented lifestyle experiences, it also aims to contribute significantly to Thailand’s economic progress.

Nestled in the heart of the bustling intersection of Wireless Road and Rama IV Road, One Bangkok is more than just a premier retail and lifestyle shopping destination. This expansive mega-development reimagines urban living and combines shopping, dining, workspaces, and leisure all in one place. It also boasts five office towers, five hotels, and three residential towers, making it a complete urban ecosystem.

In addition to being an entertainment hub, One Bangkok features an inspiring art loop — a vibrant space for art enthusiasts and a daily source of inspiration. It brings together exceptional art and cultural programs, weaving creativity seamlessly into the fabric of everyday life.

So, what makes One Bangkok stand out from other shopping malls in the city? Here are the key highlights you should know and what you can find there:

Beautiful Backdrops and Instagrammable Spots

One Bangkok Urban Park
Facebook/One Bangkok

One Bangkok is truly a sprawling marvel, offering an array of picturesque spots just waiting for you to capture them. While every corner is Instagram-worthy, there are a few standout spots that you shouldn’t miss out for your picture-perfect snap.

Outdoor Spaces: Nestled within the urban city center is this Urban Park at One Bangkok, a beautifully landscaped green area featuring trees, lawns, and gardens. Make your move to the 5th floor, where you can snap breathtaking photos with stunning city views as your backdrop.

The STOREYS: This dynamic zone is the perfect destination for those looking to engage with cool interactive installations. The Interactive X Cat Radio space, themed around music, provides an exciting opportunity for memorable photos.

One Content Store: Step inside this duplex bookstore to discover an immersive photobooth experience, guaranteed to elevate your picture-taking game.

What to Do at One Bangkok

Retail Therapy

One Bangkok
One Bangkok

If you're looking to shop, you'll find plenty of options with over 900 fashion and lifestyle brands available. Explore three unique retail experiences: Parade, THE STOREYS, and POST 1928. Each space is designed with its own distinct theme to enhance your shopping adventure.

Parade: Embracing the concept of “A World of Choice Without Limits,” Parade spans nine floors. This dynamic space isn't just for shopping; it’s where you can play, work, and savor delightful meals. It features the first stores of Thailand's leading brands, coupled with an exciting array of restaurants, cozy cafes, and fresh grocery options that cater to every palate.

THE STOREYS: Under the vibrant theme “Tell Your Own Story at THE STOREYS,” this creative space spreads across five floors and showcases a curated selection of trendy fashion and lifestyle stores infused with contemporary local culture. Visitors can explore fascinating shops and unique concept stores, as well as enjoy a variety of restaurants, bars, and bistros.

POST 1928: One Bangkok brings the concept of “Go Beyond Luxury” to life resembling Bangkok's historic shopping street with a dynamic luxury shopping experience. It features a remarkable collection of world-class fashion brands, exquisite luxury watches, and fine jewelry, alongside cutting-edge streetwear. Some of the concept stores include King Power City Boutique, Jim Thompson, Skechers, Norse x Bit.Studio, Club21, and more. Moreover, there are Thailand’s largest flagship stores, such as Swatch, Muji, Nitori, Ari Football, New Era, Urban Revivo, and many more to come.

Green Spaces

One Bangkok Green Spaces
Facebook/ One Bangkok

One Bangkok prioritizes green living by dedicating 50% of its area to lush parks, beautiful gardens, and inviting pet-friendly spaces on both rooftops and at ground level. With over 50 rai of open spaces, it seamlessly connects Lumpini Park and Benjakitti Park, creating a vibrant oasis in the heart of the city.

Endless Entertainment

One Ultra Screens One Bangkok
Facebook/One Ultra Screens

Live Concerts: Enjoy performances by celebrity artists every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

One Ultra Screen: Film enthusiasts can watch movies in a luxurious theater and sign up for the Exclusive Cinema Club.

Bangkok Wonder: Unwind at a relaxing after-work hangout spot in a semi-outdoor green area, complemented by a new all-day dining destination.

MEGA HarborLand

Harbourland Group
Harbourland Group

Adventurous souls will find excitement in this new indoor playground, which spans over 6,000 square meters. Inspired by the enchanting Himmapan Forest, this unique space brings to life the beauty and mythical creatures of Thai legend under the captivating theme "Onederland," seamlessly connecting the human world with a fantastical realm.

Some of the highlights of Harborland include the 6-story Harbour Skyscraper, the Sky Monorail (an aerial pedaling ride), and the LED Spider Tower, which boasts a 7-meter slide with illuminated rings. It also features Thailand’s first glow-in-the-dark shooting arena, Sisyfox Jumping (an interactive jumping game), and a Little Ville & Toys Room designed for toddlers.

Restaurant and Dining

Mitsukoshi Depachika Thailand One Bangkok
Facebook/ Mitsukoshi Depachika Thailand

There are more than 250 restaurant options, including food stalls, fine-dining establishments, rooftop bars, and hangout spots, featuring cuisines from Thailand and around the globe. Additionally, it hosts Thailand’s first-ever Mitsukoshi Depachika, where you can grab your favorite Japanese delights and enjoy the exquisite food hall experience.

O Sarapad Thai

Sarapad Thai One Bangkok
Facebook/Sarapad Thai

This unique retail space is dedicated to showcasing the finest Thai design and craftsmanship. The store offers a diverse range of products, including traditional Thai handicrafts, stylish homeware, contemporary lifestyle accessories, fashion items, toys, and food products. Each item is thoughtfully created by skilled Thai designers and artisans.

How to get there: If you’re taking public transport, then you can get down at MRT Lumphini. Or, if you’re taking a Grab or Bolt, then pick the Parade, THE STOREYS, and One Bangkok Forum.

Location: One Bangkok, Witthayu Rd, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10330

Operating Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM daily

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Bangkok/ Delish/ Cheap Eats

Expanding Your Palate: Traditional Thai Dishes Worth Trying

Untitled design 9

Thai cuisine is world-renowned for its vibrant and unique flavors, featuring an artful balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements made from fresh ingredients.

While the famed Tom Yum Kung (hot and sour shrimp soup) often takes center stage having recently been recognized by UNESCO and inscribed to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, there’s a treasure trove of traditional Thai dishes waiting to be explored.

From hearty curries to fragrant stir-fries and refreshing salads, here are some of the most popular Thai dishes offering a glimpse into Thailand’s culinary diversity and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning on a trip to Bangkok or other Thai cities soon, don’t miss your chance to make it into a food trip!

Thai Boat Noodles (Guay Teow)

We’re starting this list with some hearty soups, which are usually served alongside other dishes centered around a rice-based meal. When people think of Thai soups, the go-to dish is Tom Yum Kung, which is a sour and spicy soup made with shrimp and infused with fragrant herbs. It also has different variations, some made with other seafood like fish (Tom Yum Pla) or enriched with coconut milk such as the case with Tom Kha Gai, a chicken soup with galangal (an aromatic spice).

Another staple soup in Thai cuisine is Guay Teow or Thai Boat Noodles which are often sold in street food stalls. It’s a noodle soup that can be made with pork, chicken, or beef and is an incredibly delicious dish packed with aromas and flavors. If you want to try something apart from Tom Yum, we highly recommend this one!

Som Tum

This green papaya salad is a refreshing starter made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, yard-long beans, peanuts, and dried shrimp. These ingredients are then tossed in a spicy, tangy dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, palm sugar, and chilies.

A healthy dish that will surely tickle your taste buds, Som Tum can be found in almost every restaurant and street food stall in Thailand, and is also a classic offering in many Thai restaurants worldwide.

Pad Thai

Undoubtedly the most well-known dish outside of Thailand, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish made with rice noodles, a protein like chicken, beef, or shrimp, scrambled egg, pad Thai sauce, and bean sprouts. This delicious noodle dish has been named as the national dish of the country, so it goes without saying, it’s a crowd favorite.

In other recipes, you may also find ingredients such as tofu, fresh lime juice, crushed peanuts, and Thai chili flakes as garnishes.

Pad See Ew

Another beloved noodle dish is Pad See Ew or stir-fried soy sauce noodles, which is also a popular Thai street food made with wide rice noodles (sen yai), dark soy sauce, Chinese broccoli, and a choice of protein. While Pad Thai is sweeter and nuttier, Pad See Ew is stir-fried until they have a slightly charred flavor, making this dish taste smokier and more savory.

Khao Pad

Rice is a staple in Asian cuisine and if you love a good fried rice dish, then you should definitely give this dish a try.

Khao Pad has endless variations and is a well-known street food dish. You can make it with any protein, a combination of vegetables, and seasonings. Fish sauce brings a little sweet, umami flavor to this stir-fry, and it typically comes with sliced cucumbers and lime wedges on the side. It can also be cooked with a different sauce such as barbecue and oyster sauces.

Some of the most popular Khao Pad variations include Khao Pad Krapow (Holy Basil Fried Rice), Thai Green Curry Fried Rice, and Thai Pineapple Fried Rice.

Pad Kra Pao

This classic recipe is enjoyed best for lunch or dinner and features stir-fried minced pork with holy basil. Pad Kra Pao offers a delicious kick as it’s also made with spicy curry paste, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves.

This spicy dish is balanced by aromatic herbs, and complimented by garlic, shallots, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and chili peppers. Have it with a side of steaming white rice and a fried egg, and you’ll have one of the most satisfying meals ever!

Thai Green Curry (Gaeng Keow Wan) and Red Curry (Gaeng Ped)

Curries are an integral part of Thai cuisine and there are a handful of different types that are categorized by the color of the curry paste. A couple of the most popular ones are red and green curry.

Green Curry is the most well-known of all the Thai curries and doesn’t carry as much heat as the others, which is perfect if you’re not a fan of spicy dishes. It’s also very creamy due to the green chili paste and the coconut milk infused into the dish.

This dish is originally from Central Thailand and is traditionally made from the combination of shallots, lemongrass, white pepper, coriander root, garlic, kaffir lime, shrimp paste, and sea salt, alongside green chili paste and coconut milk, all of which gives this dish its unique taste. Different kinds of proteins are added into the recipe depending on preference, but it’s most often served with chicken or fish balls in Thailand.

Meanwhile, Red Curry has similar features to the green one and shares the same cooking methods. The difference lies in the color and taste as this dish has a more savory and spicier flavor. This recipe is best served with a rich protein like fatty pork or duck meat.

Mango Sticky Rice

There’s always room for dessert and this is one recipe you’ve probably heard of as it’s a classic Thai dessert known across the world.

It’s a simple dish made with sweet ripe mangoes and glutinous rice cooked in coconut milk with palm sugar. Although it’s more on the sweeter side, it also has salty and tangy undertones with a soft and creamy texture.

This hot-and-cold combo is a match made in food heaven and makes for a delightful dessert any time of day.

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Bangkok/ Delish/ Restaurants

Konnichiwa! Five Japanese Restaurants You Should Try at Emsphere

Konnichiwa Five Japanese Restaurants You Should Try at Emsphere

Bangkok’s incredible international food scene can be overwhelming with its sheer variety. Luckily, new and exciting dining options are constantly emerging, including a strong presence of Japanese cuisine at Emsphere, one of Thailand’s most popular shopping destinations.

Get ready to explore some of the best Japanese restaurants this mall has to offer.

Tokyo Highball Emsphere

Looking for Japanese cuisine? Tokyo Highball Emsphere, located on the 5th floor of Emsphere, offers a contemporary take on Robata grilling and Izakaya dining. The restaurant features a diverse selection of highball cocktails alongside its menu of grilled skewers and small plates.

Tokyo Highball Emsphere provides a unique dining experience, combining traditional Japanese culinary techniques with modern approaches. This makes it a great choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

Location: Tokyo Highball Emsphere, Level 5, GM Floor, Empshere, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok

Kogoru Katsu

Yummy Kogoru Katsu Japanese Meal Six Cuts of Chicken
Website/Emsphere

If katsu is what you’re after, Kogoru Katsu on the GM floor of Empshere is worth checking out. This restaurant specializes in katsu, with a menu featuring various cutlet choices. Known for their crispy breading and tasty fillings, Kogoru Katsu will surely satisfy your katsu cravings.

Catering to various dining needs, from individuals to families, this restaurant provides a straightforward and enjoyable meal, especially if you’re in the mood for katsu. Notably, they feature a special recipe originating from Niigata City, a region renowned for its golden pears, making them the first and only restaurant in Thailand to offer this unique flavor.

Location: Kogoru Katsu, GM Floor, Empshere, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok

Hachicken Ramen

Hachicken Ramen Thailand Offerings Menu Food Choices
Website/Emphsere

Craving a lighter, yet deeply flavorful ramen experience? Hachicken Ramen offers a refreshing take on this Japanese staple. Built on a foundation of culinary tradition, Hachicken brings a time-honored chicken-based ramen from Kyoto to the world.

Using a unique cooking method passed down for over half a century, they craft rich and aromatic chicken broths available in a variety of styles like shoyu, yuzu shio, paitan, and miso. This focus on chicken creates a uniquely satisfying bowl of ramen, perfect for those who are looking for a less heavy, but equally delicious, option.

Location: Hachicken Ramen, GM Floor, Empshere, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok

Hitori Shabu

Japanese Food at Hitori Shabu
Website/Emsphere

Hitori Shabu is a premium shabu-shabu and sukiyaki restaurant dedicated to showcasing the authentic flavors of Japanese hot pot. Driven by a passion for the traditional dining style, Hitori Shabu aims to provide each guest with a personal and indulgent experience. They meticulously prepare each dish, ensuring every diner can fully appreciate and enjoy the individual hot pot set before them. This focus on individual dining allows for a more focused and satisfying shabu-shabu or sukiyaki experience.

Location: Hitori Shabu, GM Floor, Empshere, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok

Maisen (The Corn)

Maisen The Corn Food
Website/Emsphere

Maisen, a tonkatsu restaurant established in 1965, has earned nationwide acclaim in Japan for its exceptionally tender pork cutlets. Known for being “so delicious...soft that you can cut it with chopsticks,” Maisen’s tonkatsu is prepared with meticulous care and coated in perfectly crisp breadcrumbs. Paired with their signature sauce, each bite offers a consistently satisfying and flavorful experience.

Location: Maisen (The Corn), GM Floor, Emsphere, Sukhumvit Rd, Khlong Tan, Khlong Toei, Bangkok

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Bangkok/ Delish/ Happenings

Savor the 'Mediterranean Quartet' at VIU, The St. Regis Bangkok

Untitled design 2024 12 31 T122954 363 Photo by Facebook/The St. Regis Bangkok

Craving a Mediterranean escape but want your feet planted in Bangkok in the new year? Look no further than VIU at The St. Regis Bangkok. Perched on the 12th floor beside the Sky Lobby, this elegant dining destination offers sweeping views of the Royal Bangkok Sports Club and beyond, setting the perfect scene for your culinary journey.

From Jan. 1 to March 31, 2025, VIU invites you to indulge in the "Mediterranean Quartet," a four-course dining series inspired by the vibrant flavors and changing seasons of the Mediterranean.

Mediterranean Quartet
Facebook/The St. Regis Bangkok

For just THB2,500++ per person, treat yourself to a carefully curated menu that showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients like sunchokes, cauliflower, and the timeless winter favorite — lamb leg. Club Marriott members also enjoy an exclusive discounted rate, making this experience even more irresistible.

Highlights include the homemade "Plin" Ravioli filled with tender New Zealand lamb leg for a taste of Mediterranean comfort. For mains, options include the rich Grilled Australian Wagyu Beef Striploin with sunchokes that is cooked to mouthwatering perfection, or the delicate Pan-Seared Antarctic Black Cod, paired with roasted cauliflowers.

Don’t miss this limited-time journey through Mediterranean flavors — no plane ticket required!

Location: VIU, 159 Rajadamri Road Bangkok 10330

Hours: Lunch from 12 PM to 3:30 PM on Mondays to Saturdays, Dinner from 6 PM to 10 PM, Sundays to Thursdays.

For more information, visit their website, or stay up to date on Facebook and Instagram.

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