Given the recent rise in COVID-19 cases, the best advice would be to limit exposure for the time being. However, after last year’s lockdown, we can sympathize if you feel the need to change out of your pajamas, throw on some real clothes and enjoy a nice lunch out from time to time. Take advantage of the winter breeze right now and enjoy a socially distanced meal outside. We’ve listed some of our favorite afternoon spots for food, drinks and ambience below.
Baan Tepa Culinary Space
When Baan Tepa first opened its doors, it quickly earned its title as an innovative yet authentic fine dining experience. Its quick rise to fame coupled with limited availability made a seat at Chef Tam Chudaree Debhakam’s table one of the most coveted in the city. However, with the recently opened Tepa Garden, fans of the Top Chef winner can now easily enjoy her food every Wednesday to Sunday from 12PM to 6PM. The more casual ‘Tamsung’ menu features both Thai and Western dishes, ranging from Kao Yum Moo Waan to Nonna’s Wagyu Meatballs. Go for Chef Tam’s exciting vision and enjoy an afternoon under the shade of the property’s decades-old trees.
561 Ramkhamhaeng Road
Brasserie Palmier
Bangkok is a city of trends, and right now, the Brasserie Palmier at the new Four Seasons Hotel is all the rage. It’s no wonder why: situated riverside, the brasserie, with its idyllic atmosphere and decadent interior, provides a temporary reprieve from the familiar scenes of city life. The menu here is driven by seafood, in particular fish. The seafood tower is a surefire pick but the Le Plat Du Jour (special of the day) promises a pleasant surprise. Extra points are also given for the oyster bar. Oh, and did we mention that dogs are allowed? The Brasserie Palmier lunch hours are 11.30AM to 2.30PM on Wednesday through Sunday.
300/1 Charoen Krung Road
Zuma
Even years after its arrival to Bangkok, Zuma still remains a go-to spot for almost every occasion—family dinners, business lunches, afternoon catch-up sessions, pre-games and even after-after-parties. Located at the bottom of the St. Regis Hotel on Ratchadamri Road, the contemporary Japanese restaurant serves izakaya-inspired food in a hip, modern space. The bar extends the dining area out to an extensive landscaped terrace that offers a bit more privacy (or in this new reality, safe distance from other tables). The cool ambience here makes it the perfect backdrop for a long lunch to catch up with friends you haven’t seen outside of FaceTime in weeks.
159 Ratchadamri Road
Ma Maison
You can never go wrong with Ma Maison. Here, you’ll find classic Thai dishes from the Sampatisiri’s family recipes. While the food alone already warrants a visit (make sure you order the Angus Steak with Sticky Rice, Pad Woonsen Bolan and Hor-Mok), the true charm of Ma Maison is its location. Set in a glass house on the family’s grand estate in Soi Somkid, Ma Maison offers a relaxed setting that’s ideal for ladies who lunch. On a nice day, opt for seating on the terrace and take in the view of the garden.
4 Soi Somkid
Aqua
Located in the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, Aqua has firmly cemented itself in Thai society as the ‘it’ place where, more often than not, you’ll be met with familiar faces. The spacious area and open-air space provide ample comfort for those still wary of the pandemic. If you’re anything like us and are getting bored of your own cooking, then Aqua might prove to be the perfect pick: order from any of the four award-winning restaurants—Biscotti, Madison, Spice Market and Shintaro—and have select dishes brought to your table outside. As if that isn’t reason enough for a visit, the koi pond and garden help to create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else you’ll find in Bangkok. Aqua is open daily from 11AM onwards.
155 Ratchadamri Road
Gigi Dining Hall & Bar
The restaurant space next to Sing Sing Theater has undergone many changes over the years. First there was Quince, then the short-lived FortyFive Bar & Kitchen, and now, Gigi Dining Hall & Bar. Though it’s known for its fun evening vibes, the lunch options at Gigi aren’t to be overlooked either. Available from Tuesday through Sunday at 11.30AM to 3PM, the two- and three-course sets are priced at THB 310 and THB 390, respectively. On the sets, you’ll find Italian classics like Tomato Burrata Salad, Chicken Parmesan and Tiramisu.
4 Sukhumvit 45 Alley
Writers: Uracha Chaiyapinunt and Noah Sumayao