Ideal Eats: Baanual, Phra Nakhon (Old Town), Bangkok

Ideal for lesser known, home-style Thai dishes cooked expertly…

Though Baanual has recently moved to a new, slightly swankier location along Fueang Nakhon (there’s air conditioning here), it’s still as impossible to book as ever, testament to siblings Yu and Tommy Sakornsin’s superb hospitality and comforting cooking.

Feeling decidedly more domestic as you step through the doors of Baanual you’ll enter a whimsical world filled with decorative birdcages, an old-school ice-shaving machine, and just three tables. On the stereo is ’80s Thai soul and the clattering of woks, the mise en scene set perfectly for a meal of satisfying home-style Thai dishes.

Images via @baannual37

Many are here for the awesome stir-fries like the moo pad kapi (stir-fried pork neck with shrimp paste), which is boldly flavoured and humming with wok hei; the perfect accompaniment to endless freshly steamed jasmine rice, of course. 

We love the Salt fried river prawns… Sprinkled garlic paired with shrimp then mixed in oil fried shrimp cutloin with seafood salad sauce.

Don’t leave without ordering the signature yum dukkajorn, a salad of cowslip creeper, minced pork, and shrimp, all tossed in a coconut cream dressing. It’s both delicate and rich, and a great expression of what makes Baanual so popular; lesser known, home-style Thai dishes cooked expertly.

To get a reservation, follow Baanual on Instagram – it’s their main communication channel.

  • When is Baanual open? Baanual is open Wednesday through Sunday, for lunch between midday and 2pm, and for dinner 5pm to 8pm.
  • Do I need to book in advance? You will need to book Baanual months in advance, via phone (+66 81 889 7403). There is a waiting list.
  • How much should I expect to spend? Two people can eat handsomely at Baanual, with a couple of cold ones, for ฿2500 (£55).
  • Closest BTS/MRT? Sam Yot MRT is a 10 minute walk from the restaurant.

Address: Ministry Of Interior, 37 Fueang Nakhon Rd, Wat Ratchabophit, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200

Instagram@baannual

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