Nara Thai Cuisine (Erawan)
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About
Nara Thai is consistently voted as one of the best restaurants in Thailand for its reliable and high-quality traditional Thai dishes. Located in the luxury Erawan Bangkok mall, the restaurant offers a comfortable, air-conditioned environment with elegant purple-toned decor. The sensory experience is one of classic Thai hospitality, with a vast menu that covers everything from spicy salads to rich coconut-based curries. Experts recommend the 'Khao Soy' and the 'Soft Shell Crab with Yellow Curry.' Practical pro tip: It is a very popular choice for families and tourists due to its central location near the Erawan Shrine; while they take walk-ins, it is best to book for dinner to avoid waiting during the peak evening shopping hours.
Highlights
- Premium Thai comfort food
- Beautifully presented signature dishes
- Consistently top-rated dining
- Elegant Erawan mall location
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Erawan Shrine
The Erawan Shrine is a Brahman shrine housing a statue of Phra Phrom, the Thai representation of the Hindu god Brahma. Historically, it was built in 1956 to ward off bad luck during the construction of a nearby hotel. The air is thick with the scent of jasmine garlands and incense smoke, while traditional Thai dancers perform throughout the day to thank the deity for granted wishes. It is one of the busiest and most vibrant spiritual spots in the city. Experts recommend observing the dancers from the skywalk above for a great perspective before heading down to buy small offerings. Pro tip: To avoid the 'lucky' bird release scam, do not buy birds to set free; instead, buy the standard incense and flower sets from the official counter inside the shrine grounds.
CentralwWorld
CentralWorld is the ninth largest shopping complex in the world, offering a massive 550,000 square meters of retail space. It serves as a lifestyle hub, featuring two department stores, a sprawling cinema, and a skating rink. The open-air plaza in front is iconic for hosting Bangkok’s biggest New Year’s Eve countdown. The sensory experience is overwhelming in scale, with bright, airy atriums and endless rows of international brands. Experts recommend the 'Groove' zone for trendy bars and outdoor dining. Pro tip: On the 7th floor, 'Central Food Hall' is one of the most premium supermarkets in the city—perfect for picking up high-end food souvenirs like dried durian or gourmet spices.
Gaggan Anand
Chef Gaggan Anand's 25-course emoji tasting menu served entirely without cutlery is one of Asia's most theatrical and boundary-pushing fine dining experiences, transforming Indian culinary traditions through progressive techniques like spherification, edible incense, and dishes served on hands or licked directly off wooden boards. The Bangkok institution held the top spot on Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list for four consecutive years and consistently earns two Michelin stars for its irreverent genius that celebrates the messiness of Indian street food in a world-class setting. The chef's table facing the open kitchen allows guests to witness the controlled chaos behind each remarkable course.
Sea Life Bangkok Ocean World
Situated beneath the luxurious Siam Paragon mall, this is Southeast Asia’s largest aquarium, housing over 30,000 creatures. It features themed zones like the 'Rocky Hideout,' 'Shark Walk,' and a 270-degree glass tunnel. The sensory experience is immersive, with the cool blue light of the tanks and the graceful movement of eagle rays overhead. Experts recommend the Glass Bottom Boat tour for a closer look at the surface of the shark tank. Pro tip: Buy tickets online in advance to save up to 25% compared to the walk-in price; it is an ideal escape during the peak afternoon heat or on a rare rainy day in Bangkok.
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