What is it?: Fiery southern Thai food served in an environment that is as serene as the food is aggressive, with a flagship in Thong Lo and four locations around town.
Why we love it: Southern Thai food is perhaps the highest hurdle for those uninitiated in the mysteries of Thai cuisine. Strongly featuring the flavour profile known as phet ron, in which the spice feels hotter than usual due to the heavy use not just of chillis but also ingredients like fresh black pepper, flavours are earthy and ferociously hot. Khua Kling Pak Sod serves up traditional family recipes from Chumphon that will challenge the senses. Start with the titular dish, a classic khua kling dry curry made with an intense paste, served alongside plenty of fresh vegetables to cool you down. And it wouldn’t be southern food without loads of fresh seafood – crab meat is bright and flavourful and huge prawns contrast beautifully with the intense curries.
Time Out tip: Make sure to order mild dishes for balance – dok kajon is a favourite, in which tiny cowslip flowers meet the aroma of the wok, or try bai liang tom kati gung, a rich coconut soup that will restore balance to your universe.