Established more than three decades ago, Singapore restaurant Wah Lok has gained respect, as well as awards, for its exquisite creations that trumpet authentic Cantonese fare presented in modern ways. The elegant dining room is the signature restaurant of Carlton Hotel Singapore, an independent hotel brand in the island city-state.
Carlton is expanding its presence throughout the rest of Southeast Asia, and its first property outside of Singapore is in Bangkok, right in the heart of Sukhumvit. This also means that Wah Lok has come to the city, giving Bangkokians the chance to get a real taste of this renowned restaurant’s offerings.
An open kitchen takes up one side of the Wah Lok in Bangkok, giving guests a clear view of the restaurant’s dedicated cooking troupe, each of whom is credited for the amazing culinary turns brought to the table.
These include an array of scrumptious—and supremely photogenic—dim sum. Served during lunch, these tasty bites include Steamed Lobster and Scallop Dumplings (B180), Deep-fried Taro with Seafood (B120), and Steamed Crystal Skin Shrimp Dumplings with Beetroot (B140).
But our hands-down pick is the Baked Barbecued Pork Bun (B120), a moreish treat that stuffs sweet and smoky pork into a soft bun with a crusty crumble on top; and the Steamed Vegetarian Dumplings with Bamboo Fungus in Truffle Oil (B120), an extremely aromatic morsel that exemplifies east-meets-west.
The restaurant is also up to snuff when it comes to its à la carte menu. Go for the Crispy Prawn with Wasabi Dressing (B580) and Crispy Fish Skin with Salted Egg Yolk (B250). These two dishes certainly whet your appetite. But make sure to pair these with Wah Lok’s pride—a delicious XO sauce that comes with your chosen protein. (We recommend the sautéed scallop.)
Unsurprisingly, the restaurant’s Peking Duck (B1,600) doesn’t disappoint, thanks to a unique egg dough that used to make the required wraps for the dish.
A perfect meal-ender is the Chinese Herbal Jelly (B140), a refreshing dessert that combines chilled mango cream, sago, and pomelo.
At first glance, Wah Lok may seem like another restaurant in a high-end setting that serves pricey fare. But one bite is all you need to realize that every baht spent at this restaurant is definitely worth it.