Michelin-star-worthy alternatives if Jay Fai really hangs up her blow torch

A hidden gem on Samsen Road, this restaurant began its gastronomic journey as a modest noodle stall before expanding its menu to include traditional Thai dishes, eventually adding the now-iconic crab meat omelette. Their signature kai foo pu (a fluffy crab-stuffed omelette, B350) is gaining fame across the city and could well become a culinary favourite nationwide. In addition to this crab-laden delight, their stir-fried crab with curry powder (B350) showcases the freshness and vibrant flavours that make Thai seafood so irresistible.

503-505 Samsen Rd, Dusit. 02-668-8788. Open Mon-Sat 10am-7.30pm. Closed Sun

This homey spot serves up Thai comfort food like the classic crab meat omelette (B480) and southern-inspired dishes. With roots in Chumphon, a coastal province in southern Thailand, Prik Yuak offers fresh, locally-sourced seafood including standout dishes like the crab omelette, grilled squid (B190) and deep-fried sea bass with fish sauce (B285). If seafood isn’t your thing, the Chumphon-style pork in gravy sauce, ma ouan (B225), offers a rich alternative.

108 Pradiphat Rd, Phaya Thai. 081-817-6255. Open Tue-Sun 11am-9pm. Closed Mon

A local favourite in the Prachachuen area for over three decades, this restaurant impresses diners with its affordable crab meat omelette (B320) alongside a selection of seafood classics. In addition to their fluffy fried eggs, you can indulge in stir-fried seafood with basil and chilli (B250) or a zesty hot and sour seafood soup (B190). This place is definitely worth bookmarking in case Jay Fai’s beloved dishes really do vanish from the scene.

44 Chotiwat Soi, Bang Sue. 089-182-2640. Open Daily 10am-2.30pm & 4-10pm

Tucked away in Ekkamai Soi 23, this unassuming spot serves a crab meat omelette that’s anything but ordinary, alongside other seafood classics. Though calling it a “hidden gem” might sound predictable, it truly earns the title. The real draw is its local favourites, like the substantial crab omelette (B700) and a tom yum seafood (B260) that delivers on that essential spicy-sour kick. If you’re passing through from Khlong Tan station, this low-key eatery could be just the spot to pause, refuel and savour some authentic flavours.

51 Ekkamai Soi 23, Khlong Tan Nuea. 086-044-9478. Open Mon-Sat 8.30am-3.30pm. Closed Sun

For those craving a high-end Thai dining experience, this stylish, barn-inspired eatery offers a tasteful take on classic Thai dishes, including its own spin on the famous crab meat omelette. Here, a tasting menu starting at B3,500 showcases a refined selection like rich lamb massaman curry, fragrant tom yum koong and Khao’s signature crab roe chilli paste. With a focus on preserving authentic flavours without modern twists, this spot is sure to captivate serious Thai cuisine lovers.

15 Ekkamai Soi 10, Khlong Tan Nuea. 098-829-8878. Open Daily 11.30am-2pm & 5.30pm-10pm