Dining Out

Probably my favorite pass time, I love food, I love drink so what better to do than get your best friends together and have a sit down? 

Wine Connection


Wine connection is the standard for Bangkok restaurants, it is how we gauge the price, quality and location of other restaurants in Bangkok e.g. ''Is it more or less expensive than wine connection? Was it better or worse than the steak at wine connection?''. There are about 5 branches in Bangkok and I have been to 2 so far. The menus are the same apart from an additional tapas menu in some branches.

You can expect an Italian menu and very reasonably priced wine. The food looks like it does on the menu and is usually on the table within 15 mins of ordering. A glass of house wine costs about 120 B and the servings are generous. Wine connection is the go-to restaurant for minor celebrations, after work dinners etc. There is something for everyone, no need to book in advance and you will always leave drunk. The only downside is if you go there too often  the menu can get boring, but it is still one of my favorite places to go in Bangkok.





The Nest


The Nest is tucked away on the top of Phoenix Hotel on Sukhumvit Soi 11. When you reach the top floor in the lift you have to climb some narrow stairs. On my way up I got the impression we may be at the wrong place, but as we emerged it all became clear. I had booked a table for 15 people for my friends birthday party. When I called to book their English was good and it was simple, I spoke to the events manager who offered us a 10% discount if we paid the bill all in one.






When we arrived he came over to check everything was alright, I gave him the cake we had bought and he paid close attention as I explained how I wanted the candles arranged. His English was great, he played happy birthday music, bought out the cake on time and delivered on the discount he had promised. The waitress who was taking care of our party was very diligent, she looked amazing and nothing was too much trouble. Some of our guests cancelled and we wanted to rearrange the seating, this was done quickly and with a smile. The food was very reasonably priced, and delicious. The majority of the table had steak with chips (360 B), each steak was cooked how we ordered. Nest is famous for it's mojito towers (400 B), we ordered 2 of these for a party of 12. After the drinks we had with our meal it was perfect. I would definitely recommend Nest for parties as our night was flawless. Even when we got a bit drunk and loud it was no problem.


The Long Table


The Long Table is undoubtedly classy, Hiso and chic. As you enter the restaurant the hallway is mirrored which sends sparkling light darting across your vision and delights your senses. The symmetry of the interior architecture induces a calm and relaxed feeling and the visible shimmering skyline catches your attention and guides you to the balcony. The balcony, which is built around a shallow pool which reflects the lights of the city, looks down over the beautiful Benjakiti Park. Book in advance to secure a table with a view, if not you will be seated on the long table which is just as elegant. To honor the special experience comply with the dress code by equipping yourself with dapper garments. The menu consists of both Thai and Western dishes. We had starters to share which consisted of Chiang Mai sausage and spring rolls (not too adventurous but the people want what the people want!) and then as per usual everyone at my table ordered steak. It was beautifully presented and the wine was fantastic. The waiters English was very good and they were professional and helpful. When at The Long Table you pay a slight premium for being in such a beautiful location which is to be expected, but the prices are still reasonable once you've taken this into consideration. I'd suggest this restaurant for a romantic meal or family gathering, but I think it is probably slightly too posh for a girls get together if that is like me you have a group that can get a bit loud.


Above Eleven


Above Eleven is another classy Bangkok sky bar situated on, you guessed it Sukhumvit Soi 11. To reach the restaurant on the 33rd floor you must enter through the back, where a private elevator playing disco music whizzes you to the top floor in style. Your ears pop on the way up and its impossible to stop yourself dancing for the duration leaving you all giggly when you enter the restaurant. The atmosphere is exclusive and sexy as the sultry lighting sets the mood. We were lucky enough to have booked a table by the balcony which allowed us to eat with the sunning scenery that is Bangkok by night as our neighbor.

To be completely honest, regarding food Above Eleven was a touch on the expensive side. Because of this and it being near the end of the month me and my friend decided to split 3 portions of sushi between us and after I'd finished eating I was still very full. This is not uncommon for me as I do have a big appetite but it was not only me who was left feeling peckish. The 'lamb shank portion for two' came out looking like a portion for one, we even asked where the rest of it was. The girls were not impressed. Don't go there hungry unless you have the budget of more than 1000 B for food alone. If that's not the case just ensure you have a snack a few hrs before you go to take the edge off.


Cabbages and Condoms


Cabbages and Condoms is an ethical restaurant which was founded by an non-government organisation called PDA (Population and Community Development). At the forefront of PDA's mission is AIDS awareness and prevention. The decor consists of condom sculptures and fairy lights. You don't really realise you have a condom lampshade hanging over your head until about half way through the meal and then it all becomes apparent. The fairy lights cover most of the venue including outside in the green foliage garden which is stunning at night.



C&C specialises in Thai food and it is delicious! I have been to C&C twice now and I would recommend the beef Panang curry. The main courses range from 170-400 B which gives those of us the budget option when needed. I wasn't impressed with the wine it comes in a small glass and was quite expensive, but they do have a wide range of beers. The atmosphere at C&C is relaxed, you could walk in off the street in very casual clothes and not have a problem. Because of this I'd say it's suitable for almost every occasion unless it was very formal. Beware, they will give each person a condom when you pay your bill. If your going with children or very conservative people you may want to just grab them off the table before little Sara opens one and thinks it's cool that everyone got given a balloon.








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