It's not hard to eat well in Bangkok, and we'd include the street food of the city in that sentiment. That being said, we do have some favorites, places where you'll all but guaranteed a great experience. In no particular order, they are:

Best Traditional Thai Dinner: Thiptara
This is Thai home-style cooking at its finest, served delightfully in open-air teak pavilions by candlelight with a panoramic view of the city and the Chao Phraya River by night. Don’t miss the polamai nam pung, a feast of Thai fruits roasted in honey, chili, and vanilla.


Best Views of Bangkok by Night: Sirocco
The thrill of dining 64-stories above the city is unbeatable. Tip: This is not the restaurant to pick when it's rainy or cloudy. Though the food is quite good (it's international, not Thai), you're really coming here for the views.

Best Pan-Asian: You & Mee
Pop in for a comforting bowls of noodle soup or fried noodles at this relaxed venue in a five-star hotel. There’s also a lunchtime curry buffet, and a popular evening khao tom rice soup buffet.
 
Best Floating Meal: The Manohra

Dinner cruises are always fun, but rarely is the food of the standard it is on the Manohra. Truly: it's the equal of the scenery you'll pass...and that's a high compliment.

Best Meal for $1: Kuaytiaw Reua
Nothing hits the spot like a bowl of Thai noodle soup. You'll see it being served at street stalls around the city, but for just a few pennies more, you can hunker down at this diner, where the hygienic standards are higher.

Best Meal for $30: Eat Me
Dare I call this “haute cuisine for the budget diner?” I guess so. Personally, I love it. If you can live without chandeliers and silver service, and concentrate on the delicious Modern Australian–cum-Mediterranean cuisine, you’re in for a treat—it’s excellent value for money. Try the mouthwatering rack of lamb.


Most Authentic Chinatown Meal: Hua Seng Hong
Barbecued duck hangs in the window and the bamboo steamers of dim sum come out piping hot: without a doubt this is the real deal when it come to Chinese fare.

Best ‘Once-in-a-Lifetime’ Dinner for Two: Le Normandie
Gracing the top floor of what is arguably the greatest hotel in the world, this dazzling restaurant is the epitome of fine dining. The superb menu is frequently updated by visiting Michelin chefs. Jackets are required for gents in the evening.


Best Japanese: Koi
Impeccably fresh fish make for sushi and sashimi that's beyond compare. The zen ambiance is a wonderful balm after a day of wandering through Bangkok's frenetic streets.

Best Ribs and Burgers: Smokin’ Pug
If you need a taste of home, this is where to head. Created by an ex-pat American couple, it serves up barbecue, mac n' cheese and other topnotch red-white-and-blue treats. Note: "Pug" is a tribute to the couple's pet, not a hint as to what's in the burgers.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.