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Pad Thai That Might Be Bangkok’s Best? Locals Say This Spot Wins Hands Down

Pad Thai That Might Be Bangkok’s Best? Locals Say This Spot Wins Hands Down

No frills, just unforgettable flavor. Find out why people line up in the heat for this legendary dish.

Bangkok Newsletter
June 17, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 11 minutes

Welcome to The Bangkok Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

Thailand's Sweet, Salty, Spicy Fruit Secret
Cambodian border provinces prepare for return of workers from Thailand
Thailand’s first wine on tap bar at PICHÉ Wine Bar
Bangkok's Sacred Temples Live in Your Wallet
And more…

Fun Fact

Thailand's Sweet, Salty, Spicy Fruit Secret

Source: Sail Travel Explore

Visit any Thai street fruit vendor and you'll receive a small packet of "prik glua" alongside your fresh-cut fruit - a traditional seasoning blend that transforms ordinary fruit into an extraordinary taste experience.

This addictive mixture combines salt, chili, and sugar, creating flavor explosions that enhance tropical fruits like green mango, guava, and pineapple. The salt intensifies natural flavors, sugar balances tartness, and chili adds an exciting kick.

Particularly popular with sour fruits, prik glua represents Thailand's love for balancing sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements in one perfect bite.

Trivia

✅The Answer to your Trivia last week = A) Ridgeback and Bangkaew

Here’s your trivia question of the week! Think you know the answer? Find out if you’re right in next week’s newsletter. No cheating!

Which district is known as Bangkok's Chinatown?

A) Silom

B) Sukhumvit

C) Yaowarat

D) Thonglor

News 📰

US State Dept upgrades Thailand’s travel advisory to safest level (Link)

Crackdown on expats in jobs for Thais (Link)

Mild earthquakes recorded in Thailand and neighbouring countries (Link)

Thailand Eyes Gaming Giants: Billions on the Table for Entertainment Hub (Link)

Cambodian border provinces prepare for return of workers from Thailand (Link)

Lifestyle 🕶️

💪 Health & Wellness

Bonita Cafe and Social Club - brings 15 years of passionate vegan dining to Bangkok, creating an atmosphere that feels like eating at family's home. This fully vegan kitchen sets high standards with dishes made from love and fresh ingredients. Their mango pineapple smoothie is divine, while the vegan papaya salad and Japanese curry showcase incredible plant-based flavors. The hardworking owner and hospitable staff create magic in the kitchen, preparing multiple fresh dishes in around 30 minutes. During low season, this community staple especially deserves support. (Link)

Yogatique Bangkok - offers the perfect sanctuary for maintaining yoga practice while exploring the city. This cozy studio caters to every level with fantastic teachers who prioritize comfort. The convenient location makes it easy to squeeze in sessions after sightseeing, and they provide everything needed - mats, props, and water bottles. The welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful membership options make everyone feel at home. (Link)

🍽️ Restaurants

Pad Thai Kratong Thong by ama - serves what many consider Bangkok's best Pad Thai - a bold claim backed up by incredible flavors. The relaxed atmosphere features outstanding music and friendly staff who provide iced water to help diners cool down. While there's often a line at peak hours, the food arrives quickly once seated. Each plate delivers perfectly balanced flavors that keep people returning year after year. (Link)

Lenzi Tuscan Kitchen - transports diners to Tuscany with ingredients from the chef's family farm in Italy. The rustic-modern ambiance and open kitchen create perfect Italian dining. The homemade pastas capture traditional Tuscan flavors, the risotto achieves perfect creamy texture, but the Fiorentina steak is the real showstopper - seared perfectly with juicy, tender interior. The divine gelato finale provides the perfect ending. Prices are fair for the exceptional quality. (Link)

Pho Aroi - stands as Bangkok's ultimate authentic Vietnamese pho destination, thanks to owner Tony's expertise and passion. The focused menu features deeply aromatic broth with perfect flavor balance, fresh noodles, and generous toppings. Tony's warm presence adds something special, making everyone feel at home. This spot delivers authentic Vietnamese taste that'll have you planning return visits. (Link)

☕ Cafes

Rainforest Cafe Bangkok - offers convenient escape with free parking and rainforest-themed design featuring a stunning waterfall display. The clean, modern space provides warm service and thoughtfully curated atmosphere. The gorgeous food presentation packs flavor while consistently good coffee makes it perfect for work, quick breaks, or catching up with friends. (Link)

Agalin Garden Room - creates a beautiful Eden escape with Victorian decor and lush gardens featuring flowers, butterflies, and tranquil pond. Choose outdoor seating among nature or elegant indoor air-conditioned space. Super fresh food comes with generous portions, while unique drinks feature homemade ice cubes with lemon. Perfect for intimate gatherings or larger events. (Link)

🍹 Bar & Rooftop Bars

Baobao Bar Bangkok - captures perfect local nightlife just steps from BTS, trendy among Gen-Z and millennials. This two-floor venue offers comfortable space, though booking ahead helps due to popularity. The homey, relaxed atmosphere features live bands and tasty appetizers. While pricey, the exceptional atmosphere makes it worthwhile. (Link)

Glare Eatery & Bar Bangkok - serves as a hidden rooftop gem with excellent beer and wine buffets where attentive staff keep glasses topped up. The reasonably priced food menu impresses, though vegetarians might find fewer options. The breathtaking atmosphere and exceptional cocktails create memorable experiences that keep people returning. (Link)

💎 Hidden Gems

PICHÉ Wine Bar - revolutionizes wine experience with 150 wines on tap plus sampling options. This wine lover's paradise features selections from natural to premium champagnes curated by skilled sommeliers. The great ambiance leads to dancing after a few glasses, creating perfect party atmosphere with reasonable prices. The cold cuts are essential and pair beautifully with wines. Exceptional service makes this a standout destination. (Link)

June 17th I 20:00 - 23:00 I Meetup new friends Every Tuesday (Free entry) @The Brew House (Link)

June 18th I 10:00 - 18:00 I Make New Friends with Social Coworking @ Ve/La Cafe, Central Embassy (Link)

June 18th I 20:00 - 22:00 I Hey Stranger! A speed friending, drink drinking event @Allso Bar Bangkok (South Thonglor) (Link)

June 19th I 19:00 - 21:00 I Better Together: Expand Your Network, Expand Your Mission @Treehouse Cafe and Bar (Link)

June 20th I 19:30 - 21:30 I Friday Night Fever: Ladies on Us! @Allso Bar Bangkok (South Thonglor) (Link)

June 20th I 20:00 - 0:00 I Make new friends Friday night ( the mesh hotel ) new location (Link)

🌏 Exhibitions & Expos

June 18th to June 21st I 10:00 - 18:00 I Automotive Manufacturing 2025 @BITEC - EH98-104 (Link)

June 18th to June 21st I 10:00 - 18:00 I Assembly & Automation Technology 2025 @BITEC - EH98-104 (Link)

June 18th to June 21st I 10:00 - 18:00 I Surface & Coatings 2025 @BITEC - EH98-104 (Link)

June 18th to June 21st I 10:00 - 18:00 I InterPlas Thailand 2025 @BITEC - EH98-104 (Link)

June 18th to June 21st I 10:00 - 18:00 I FacTech 2025 @BITEC - EH98-104 (Link)

June 18th to June 21st I 10:00 - 18:00 I NEPCON Thailand 2025 @BITEC - EH98-104 (Link)

Today’s Expat Story 🗺️

Erik’s Story (Sweden – Furniture Designer)

Drawn by the craftsmanship of Thai woodworkers, Erik set up a studio in Bang Wa. His minimalist Scandinavian pieces now feature Thai carving motifs. “This city is where tradition and innovation collide, and furniture tells that story beautifully.”

Thailand: Culture & History 🇹🇭

Bangkok's Sacred Temples Live in Your Wallet

Ever noticed the reverse side of Thai baht coins? Those intricate designs are actually detailed depictions of Bangkok's most revered Buddhist temples. Each coin serves as a miniature gallery, celebrating architectural masterpieces that define Thailand's spiritual landscape.

These sacred sites represent the country's religious traditions and artistic excellence. Every time you handle Thai currency, you're carrying pieces of Bangkok's cultural soul. It's a beautiful way the Thai government honors these spaces - ensuring millions encounter these architectural treasures daily, even without visiting the actual temples.

10 Baht Coin: Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan