Khao on Ekamai: Thai Culinary Heritage in a Fresh, Modern Setting

Recognized by the Michelin Guide Thailand for five consecutive years (2020–2024), Khao remains dedicated to preserving the essence of Thai cuisine while embracing innovation. The menu showcases a thoughtful balance of tradition and creativity, with dishes that highlight both classic flavors and reimagined recipes. From aromatic curries to fresh seasonal ingredients, each plate is a reflection of Thailand’s rich culinary heritage. Our visit to Khao was a journey through taste, texture, and ambiance—where every detail contributed to a truly memorable dining experience.

Now, let’s walk through what we ate.

For appetizers and salads, we started with Yum Som Choon, a traditional green mango salad with crispy, fluffy catfish and sweetened shrimp. We also had Por Pia Goong, deep-fried savory prawn spring rolls. Another standout was Yum Samunprai Hoi Shell, which featured fried, breaded Hokkaido scallops served on a bed of mixed Thai herbs and perilla seed salad—an inspired addition by the owner herself, adding extra texture. And my absolute favorite was the Thai-style tacos, a twist on the classic, filled with herbaceous crabmeat and minced prawns.

For the soup, we had the traditional and well-known Tom Yum with river prawns. This soup was rich and flavorful, with a smooth broth that perfectly complemented the big, chunky prawns.

Now, onto the main dishes. We began with crispy, fluffy catfish, perfectly paired with a herb-packed curry paste that brought a delightful balance of richness and freshness. Alongside, we had stir-fried cabbage with fish sauce—a simple yet elevated dish. The cabbage was cooked to just the right tenderness, with the fish sauce adding a depth of umami.

We also tried the Panaeng Curry with Braised Beef, and it was one of the best I’ve had. The curry was thick and rich, with a deep, savory flavor that came from the slow-braised beef. The meat was tender and well-marinated, soaking up the aromatic spices of the curry. The balance of heat and creaminess in the sauce made it a satisfying dish. It was a standout, showcasing the perfect execution of this classic curry.

Now, onto the crab. I love a good crab omelette, and this one did not disappoint. It was packed with plenty of crab and had a great, fluffy texture. Many restaurants have omelettes on their menu, but not everyone gets the flavors right like Khao does. This one really stood out, and it’s definitely a must-try on the menu.

Next, we tried a dish that really captured the bold flavors of Thailand: the spicy shrimp paste relish served with minced pork omelette and an assorted veggie tower. The shrimp paste relish had a strong, savory flavor with a noticeable kick of heat, balancing perfectly with the richness of the minced pork omelette. The veggie tower added a fresh, crunchy contrast, bringing a nice balance to the dish. It was a simple yet flavorful combination that highlighted the complexity of Thai flavors in a straightforward way.

For dessert, we had a few standout options. The Caramelized Thai Custard Pudding with Sainampeing Orange Sorbet was a unique pairing. The custard had a smooth, rich texture, and the sorbet provided a refreshing citrus contrast that balanced the sweetness perfectly.

We also enjoyed Cubed Water Chestnut Coated in Tapioca Gel, served with sweet and fragrant coconut milk. The water chestnuts were crunchy and refreshing, and the tapioca gel provided a slightly chewy texture, all brought together by the smooth coconut milk.

Finally, the Thai-inspired Tapioca Mochi with Strawberries offered a chewy, satisfying texture with a hint of sweetness from the strawberries. It was a simple but flavorful dessert, offering a nice balance of textures and flavors.

Now, for the adult beverages, Khao offers an extensive wine list with a great selection. They also know how to make a solid classic vodka martini—just the right amount of “dirty” to hit the spot and make me happy.

The restaurant’s modern, airy space is designed to feel fresh and inviting, with sleek interiors that highlight the warmth of Thai hospitality. Natural light fills the dining area, bringing out the vibrant colors of each beautifully plated dish. The open kitchen adds to the experience, letting guests see the skilled preparation behind each dish. The uncluttered layout creates a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, making it perfect for both intimate meals and lively gatherings.

I’m hungry. Where is it?

We would recommend making a reservation visit their website and you can keep up to date with their specials by following their official Facebook page or Instagram page.

Address: 15 Ekkamai 10 Alley, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Khlongtun Nua, Bangkok 10110

I want to hear from you!

Should you decide to experience Khao, I’d love to hear your feedback in the comment section below, or via message on either the Chow Traveller Facebook page or Chow Traveller Instagram (and feel free to like/follow these pages if you want to learn about more about the foodie gems I find). However you choose to reach out, I’d love to hear from you!

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