Thai cuisine is a beautiful balance of sweet, spicy, sour, and savory flavors, making it one of the most beloved culinary traditions in the world. From street food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, Thailand offers a diverse and unforgettable dining experience. If you’re looking to indulge in authentic Thai flavors, here are two of the best restaurants and their signature traditional dishes.
1. Nahm (Bangkok) – Gaeng Kiew Wan (Green Curry)
Located in Bangkok, Nahm is a Michelin-starred restaurant founded by Chef David Thompson, who is known for preserving traditional Thai recipes while presenting them with modern elegance. Nahm is celebrated for its authentic and bold flavors, staying true to Thai culinary roots while offering a refined dining experience.
What to Order: Gaeng Kiew Wan (Green Curry)
One of Nahm’s standout dishes is Gaeng Kiew Wan, or Thai Green Curry. This dish is a fragrant, slightly spicy, and creamy curry made with:
- Tender chicken or beef simmered in a coconut milk-based green curry sauce.
- Fresh Thai herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal.
- Thai eggplant and bamboo shoots, adding texture and depth.
- Aromatic green curry paste, made from fresh green chilies and coriander.
The balance of spiciness and creaminess makes this a must-try dish, and at Nahm, it’s executed to perfection.
2. Raan Jay Fai (Bangkok) – Pad Krapow (Thai Basil Stir-Fry)
For a more casual yet equally famous dining experience, Raan Jay Fai is a must-visit. This Michelin-starred street food stall, run by the legendary Chef Jay Fai, is famous for its high-quality ingredients and wok-fried mastery.
What to Order: Pad Krapow (Thai Basil Stir-Fry)
While the restaurant is best known for its crab omelet, another standout dish is Pad Krapow, a spicy and aromatic Thai basil stir-fry featuring:
- Minced pork, chicken, or seafood, stir-fried to perfection.
- Garlic, chili, and oyster sauce, creating a bold and slightly sweet flavor.
- Fresh Thai basil, adding a signature fragrance and peppery bite.
- Served over jasmine rice, with a crispy fried egg on top.
This dish is a Thai street food staple, and at Raan Jay Fai, it’s cooked over a high flame, giving it a smoky and irresistible depth of flavor.