What’s happening in the eating and drinking scene in Bangkok

Just for a moment, picture stepping into a world where the sounds of the city fade away and you find yourself transported to the heart of a lush jungle. At COBA, Bangkok's exciting new culinary sensation, that's the experience you can expect. Surrounded by towering greenery, cascading plants and the soul of nature, diners are treated to a multi-sensory experience. The blend of jungle aesthetics with fine-dining creates an atmosphere so captivating, you'll feel like you've stepped into a tropical rainforest.

The mastermind behind this jungle oasis is the acclaimed Michelin-starred chef and visionary culinary curator Olivier Limousin, with his years of expertise honed in globally renowned Michelin-starred kitchens, he has created a menu that's as imaginative as it is delicious in collaboration with COBA and executive chef Sebastien Lallane. This team has crafted a culinary journey that marries the bold, rich flavours of Latin America with the refined techniques of French cuisine.

From the moment you sit down, you'll be taken on a pulsating sensory journey through bold, creative flavours. A Tapas Tower is the star of the meal and features perfectly seared tuna tataki with a citrusy dressing, delicate confit scallops paired with tangy umeboshi and rich, buttery wagyu tartare that highlights the beef's deep umami. The unexpected fusion of flavours continues with humita gyoza filled with creamy sweetness, complemented by the salty, savoury kick of Joselito Iberico ham – a surprising and mouth-watering combination that balances comfort and adventure. Each dish celebrates the richness of local ingredients, expertly crafted in inventive ways that surprise and delight. 

Dining at COBA is an exquisite journey for the senses. From the rich flavours of each dish to the playful textures and complex detail, every element is crafted to delight the senses. The concept of 'fusion' is taken to a level where Latin American zest meets the finesse of French culinary tradition. The food shines bright, no question. But the atmosphere is equally enthralling. Every corner of the restaurant is designed to immerse you in the beauty and mystery of the jungle, while you savour a meal to remember.

Her humble roadside eatery in Phra Nakhon, famous for its sizzling crab omelettes and fiery seafood dishes, has become a national treasure, earning a Michelin star in 2018, a title it has proudly held ever since. Jay Fai’s one-star status not only showcased her exceptional talent but also elevated Bangkok’s street food to global fame, making her a culinary ambassador for Thailand.

Nearing 80, who could blame her for wanting a break? But if this Bangkok institution does indeed close its shutters, we’ve cooked up several plan-B options featuring equally stellar street food.

K-streat is a newly-opened Korean street food hub that has taken Samyan Mitrtown by storm. Opening its doors on October 3 as the newest spot for Korean cuisine lovers, the hub gathers 11 new eateries originating from South Korea. Covering many things from bibimbap and rice rolls to fruit tea, there’s no better time to relive your favourite K-drama scenes and enjoy authentic food with your friends. 

Korean street food has rocketed its popularity in Thailand for more than a decade. This food hall on the fourth floor of Samyan’s shopping mall offers a variety of menus. You can try chewy Korean instant noodles from Nongshim Shin Ramyun, where you can get service from a noodle-making machine. Blended into Thai flavour, their ramyun also have tom yum flavour from Jay Fai, a Michelin-starred street food. Craving for Korean classics, Bbja serves bibimbap with toppings of your choice (Korean rice bowl, B169). Moogyodoong Yoojung Nakji might please spicy food lovers with their spicy stir-fried minor octopus (B260) and you can choose the level of spiciness too. 

Not limited to traditional dishes, many fusion foods from Platter 7 also present Thai and other ingredients on their fried rice menus. Grab your finger food at 77Kentucky as they give you many options for their fried chicken from original to spicy flavour. 

An egg bread set (B169) from Eggseoul might be a dessert in which you can savour sweetness and creaminess in one bite. Don’t forget to refresh yourself with beverages from Tenpercent as iced peach tea (B90) and caffe latte (B95) are a drink to match your Korean meal.

K-Streat, 4/F Samyan Mitrtown. Rama IV Rd. 02-001-1051. Open Daily 10am-10pm 

Mixing whisky with art might seem like a drunken idea, but it’s a concept that’s gaining momentum in the luxury world. From Perrier’s partnership with Andy Warhol to Supreme’s collaboration with Damien Hirst, and even Dom Perignon’s work with Jeff Koons, brands are increasingly turning to artists to elevate their products. Art is no longer limited to galleries and museums – it’s finding its way into everyday life, making luxury products more accessible and visually exciting.

A fresh example of this crossover is the creative collaboration between Glenfiddich and Swedish-French graffiti artist Andre Saraiva. The iconic Scotch whisky brand launched its latest limited-edition release, the Glenfiddich Grand Chateau, which forms part of the exclusive Grand Series. This 31-year-old whisky stands out not only for its impressive age but also for being the first Glenfiddich expression matured in Bordeaux wine casks, blending the rich heritage of Scotch whisky with the elegance of French wine.

But it’s not just the whisky that’s turning heads – the packaging is a work of art. Saraiva, known for his vibrant graffiti style, brings a fresh, playful energy to the product’s design. He reinterprets the classic Toile de Jouy pattern – typically featuring pastoral scenes – by incorporating motifs from both Scotland’s Speyside whisky region and Bordeaux, creating something visually striking yet rooted in heritage.

Mr. A, the cheeky, grinning character who has appeared on walls from Paris to New York, also finds a new home on the Grand Chateau box. His presence adds an element of lightness and fun to the otherwise elegant design, showing that even in luxury, there’s room for a sense of humour.

The artistic flair continues inside the box, where Saraiva’s vibrant watercolour prints turn the packaging into a mini-gallery. It’s a fitting reflection of the whisky itself – blend of history and innovation, art and craft. The result is an unusual but compelling fusion of two distinct worlds.

The whisky’s unveiling took place at ATT 19, a contemporary gallery on Charoenkrung Road, on October 3. The venue's artistic vibe complemented the collaboration, highlighting how traditional whisky can embrace modern creativity.