Mott 32 has finally landed in Bangkok! The popular Hong Kong-originating restaurant is now serving its world-class Cantonese fare on the second floor of the freshly opened The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon.
As expected, the restaurant has already received a lot of calls from foodies across the city who want to be one of the first to get a taste of its signature Peking duck and barbecue pork, and renowned dim sum. Apparently, you need to book a month in advance to get a reservation.
So what’s the deal with Mott 32? We’re here—along with head chef Lee Man Sing who’s been air-dropped in Bangkok for the opening—to tell you six reasons why you should check Mott 32 out.
1. A globally renowned Cantonese restaurant brand that’s recognized for its progressive Cantonese fare, Mott 32 now has six locations across the world.
First launched in Hong Kong back in 2014, Mott 32 has since expanded its empire to five more locations around the world including Bangkok. World-class Cantonese dishes are served at each branch, including its signature Peking duck and char siu (barbecue pork).
We use authentic techniques that have been passed on for generations
“[At Mott 32], we use authentic techniques that have been passed on for generations,” Chef Lee says. While the signature plates retain classic flavors, the restaurant is not beyond adding local flavor to certain dishes. “At each venue, we try to incorporate some local ingredients and tastes that would please local palates.”
2. Mott 32 is going to change the way you perceive Cantonese fare.
Mott 32 presents itself as a Cantonese restaurant with a “forward-looking” approach, which means that the restaurant also uses “authentic recipes and techniques” from other Chinese cuisines to create its dishes.
As Chef Lee explains, Mott 32 looks to the culinary cultures of Szechuan, Beijing and Shanghai to further elevate its offerings. In addition, modish presentation and premium ingredients help the restaurant stand out from its peers. You can see this distinction in dishes like the soft quail egg shu mai, which comes with Iberico pork and truffle.
3. Every Mott 32 branch has been given at least one award.
Mott 32 establishments around the world are laden with awards. The original Hong Kong restaurant, for one, was recognized as one of Asia’s top 100 restaurants in 2019 and 2022, while the Vancouver branch was ranked as the city’s best Chinese restaurant in 2020 by Vancouver Magazine.
We’re expecting the Bangkok outpost to be no less acclaimed. Chef Lee is confident that his “curious” nature, and love for food and traveling can help Mott 32 Bangkok achieve award-winning status.
4. Mott 32 has at least seven signature dishes that you have to try.
When asked to pick which dishes Bangkok foodies just can’t miss, Chef Lee cheekily answers, “All of them!” But he does mention that the poached fish fillet with Szechuan pepper broth is his personal favorite. “It has a bit of spicy and sour taste, one that is similar to tom yum soup.” Usually, this dish comes with a fiery mala-heavy broth, but Mott 32’s rendition is actually “drinkable”.
He goes to on to list other musts: the Peking duck, which is only available at 22 servings per day (eight for lunch and 14 for dinner, and advance orders are required); and the barbecue pluma Iberico pork with yellow mountain honey (only 20 portions per day, 10 for lunch and 10 for dinner).
5. Mott 32 in Bangkok features an old-meet-new design that’s all-around Instagramable.
The venue itself is an experience. Internationally acclaimed design team CAP Atelier highlights the history of Chinese in Thailand, and pays tribute to the long-standing relationship between the two nationalities through vintage-style decor and murals.
Mott’s 32 signature hexagonal emblem can also be seen in every element, from the decor to the cutlery. There’s also an open-air terrace where guests can sip cocktails while enjoying the breeze, as well as private rooms for big groups.
6. Mott 32 in Bangkok is one of only three Motts to have a dedicated bar for creative cocktails.
Together with Hong Kong and Vancouver, Bangkok is the only outpost to feature a proper bar that serves an impressive list of creative concoctions inspired by local ingredients, such as the basil-infused Al Fresco or the Thai jasmine rice-flavored White Tiger.
Take a seat at its beautiful hexagonal counter and order savory morsels from the menu to nibble on while sipping these cool tipples.
Mott 32 is located on the second level of The Standard, Bangkok Mahanakhon. For reservations, click here.