These places offer the most comforting and body-refreshing Thai desserts you can find to welcome summer in style.
Locals have long been familiar with the heat wave that sweeps across the country at this time of year. This is why, decades ago, refreshing Thai desserts were born. Here’s where to find the frozen, sweet and sour Thai treats at Bangkok’s top Thai restaurants. Stay refreshed and energized on those hot days in the city.
[Hero and featured image credit: Saneh Jaan]
Mafuang Loykaew in Aksorn
Mafuang or starfruit is used in several sweet and savory Asian recipes. At Aksorn, a Thai restaurant based on ancestral recipes, the fruit is served cold as a tangy dessert to cope with the tropical climate. Mafuang Loykaew or Macerated star fruit is made from half-ripe star fruit macerated in citrus juice and zest for a few days. The result is a refreshing, light, sweet and sour dessert perfect for summer.
Aksorn is located on Charoenkrung Road, and is open Tuesday through Sunday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Kha Nom Kho Kathi Sod at The House of Creamy Curry
The House of Smooth Curry at Hotel Athenee is famous for serving traditional Thai dishes from all four regions of Thailand. The menu includes the rare southern Thai dessert, Kha Nom Kho Kathi Sod, or gooey flour balls stuffed with shredded coconut and served in sweetened coconut milk. The creamy, sweet and aromatic flavor of pandan coconut milk makes it the most delicious dessert to enjoy any time of the year.
The House of Creamy Curry at the Hôtel Athénée is open every day from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Tim Krob bathtub in Saawan
This Michelin-starred Thai restaurant serves a seasonal 11-course tasting menu that uses only local ingredients and traditional Thai cooking methods. During this period, Saawaan serves its special version of Tim Krob bathtuba refreshing pomegranate bowl of water chestnut, gummy coconut and a side of homemade smoked coconut ice cream.
Saawan is located on South Sathorn Road and is open for dinner daily from 5:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Som Chun to Saneh Jaan
Saneh Jaan is a gourmet restaurant serving authentic Thai cuisine. with dishes so rare you may not be able to find a decent replica elsewhere. Among its various appetizing Thai desserts, Som Chun is the one for you if you are looking for cooling. It’s a frozen dessert made with bitter orange peel, sour mango, fresh ginger and fried shallots, giving the perfect amount of sweet and sour taste in one bite.
Saneh Jaan is located on the wireless route. Open every day from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
My Hor in Lobby Lounges, The Sukhothai Bangkok
If you need an inclusive collection of Thai desserts to devour, the ‘Thai Heritage Afternoon Tea Set’ from the lobby lounges at Sukhothai Bangkok is a perfect match. For a saltier treat, caramelized peanuts and pineapple, also known as My Hor. This traditional Thai treat is a light bite made with sour pineapple, crunchy peanuts and a savory flavor of ground pork. Other sweet desserts are also served in the afternoon tea service, including the all-time favorite classic, mango sticky rice.
Sukhothai afternoon tea sets are available Monday to Friday from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For reservation, contact 02-344-8888.
