OK, we all know there are thousands of good restaurants in town. Generally when my (Thai) wife and I go out we’ll try a random place or maybe go someplace new to us that’s been recommended. Usually they are pretty good, sometimes excellent, occasionally disappointing. Often it depends on whatever neighborhood we happen to be visiting. Sometimes the excellent ones aren't as good the next time we visit. Most of the time I don’t even remember what it was a month later.

 

But now I have good friends coming to visit from the U.S., their first time in BKK and would like ideas for a nice lunch/dinner place with a large varied menu, that is consistently good and has a fairly calm atmosphere, so as newbies they’re not overwhelmed. Mid range prices, comfortable, but needn’t be fancy. They’ll be staying in Pratunam but Phatumwan / Silom / downtown are all fine. Suk is probably a bit out of the way.

 

I kinda can’t believe I need to ask this question, but can’t think of someplace really nice that fits the bill. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Maybe a little outside your preferred areas but..

The Face Bangkok Bar on Suk 38 is a beautiful place.

 

The Long Table and Balee Laos are both great.Soi 16.

 

Drinks first in Brewski  (Radisson Blu)  at sundown...nice. This was last night...

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for the ideas, will check them out, much appreciated!

Kinnaree, Sukhumvit Soi 8. Quiet house tucked away off the main road. Fancy gourmet Thai food. I usually take customers there.  Usually not busy. Not my personal style, but it seems to have the fancy plates and quiet atmosphere good for talking that my customer's appreciate.

Do it more thai style, go to a big karaoke place with private bungalows above the water.

 

Karaoke city springs to mind but there are loads of them and the food is great in most. They are big, you have your own room plus waiter and the karaoke machine of course.

 

I wouldn't stay downtown, in the subs are really big places and those are real thai, not many westerners there.

"Taling Pling" on Sukhumvit 34.(Thong Lo)  Maybe a bit far for you but worth the trip.  Set on the beautifully landscaped grounds of an old mansion, seating both inside and out. Excellent Thai food, moderately priced.

 

You might also consider the WOW factor of a place on the river. 

"Kin Nom Chom Saphan" overlooks the Chao Phraya next to the beautiful Rama-8 bridge, decent Thai food at reasonable prices, outdoor seating and very busy weekends.  Reservations accepted.

"Ban Klang Nam" is similar but a bit more upscale.

 

Don't forget the always entertaining "Cabbages & Condoms" on Suk 12.  Decent Thai food that supports a good cause.

I think a good choice would be The Arun residence or Supanniga. Both are opposite Wat Arun. Great views with some good food.

On the expensive side Blue Elephant on Sathorn. Vespers just off Silom is a good restaurant that does great cocktails.