Scroll though your latest Instagram feed. The glasshouse/greenhouse trend has become a massive hit in Bangkok’s hip dining scene, with new restaurants and cafés around town featuring natural light-friendly designs to match their photo-worthy grub. The trend has even expanded to the outskirts of Lad Prao with a new Thai eatery becoming the latest to brandish the “greenhouse effect.”
Kiew Kai Ka, which means “celadon green” in Thai, features two glasshouse structures that display tropical greenery at their best. Designed by Chiang Mai-based firm Proud Design, the main restaurant flaunts different shades of green (celadon being the most evident), garden ferns and acid-stained green walls—the combination gives the venue the feel of a hidden oasis. Vintage-style furniture injects a welcoming, homey vibe.
Chef-owner Nuttawut “Poy” Nantakham prepares regional dishes inspired by his extensive travels throughout the country. His khao soi (B160) is a delight, served in a dense and spicy soup, and topped with crispy noodles and a chicken drumstick. Big groups can go for sharing plates like the pla nuea salad (B220), a spicy beef dish deliciously injected with a tangy lemongrass flavor. If you can’t tolerate the heat, the grilled beef brisket (B240) is a great alternative.
The drinks list is filled with refreshing options like butterfly pea herbal juice (B65) and mango smoothie (B120). Plans are in motion to serve craft beer on tap.
The adjacent glasshouse is home to a two-story coffee shop that serves espresso variations (starting from B70) made from coffeebeans from Nan. The al fresco courtyard will soon function as an outdoor barbecue space and a venue for live music.