Michelin-Starred 80/20 Bangkok: Childhood Flavors Reimagined

80/20 is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Bangkok that follows the philosophy of “80% local ingredients + 20% creativity,” crafting a modern interpretation of Thai cuisine. Since receiving its first Michelin star in 2020, the restaurant has consistently maintained its status as a top destination in the Bangkok fine dining scene.

Dedicated to utilizing seasonal local produce, 80/20 reimagines classic Thai flavors with innovative techniques, transforming familiar childhood dishes into a sophisticated culinary experience. This particular tasting menu, themed “Memories”, showcases the chefs' reinterpretation of nostalgic Thai dishes, enriching them with refined textures and the artistry of high-end dining. From small bites to desserts, each course evokes familiar flavors from Thai culinary heritage while offering exciting contemporary surprises.

Creative Flavors and Classic Balance

The meal begins with a selection of refined small bites. The Brioche Na Moo features rich and savory Thai-style minced pork paired with buttery French brioche. Yum Watermelon, Bai Maeng Luk offers a refreshing combination of sweet and tangy fruit flavors, while Plaa Goong balances the natural sweetness of blue prawns with spicy Thai chili paste and coconut undertones. The Son-in-Law Egg, an elevated version of the traditional Thai "son-in-law eggs," boasts a runny yolk complemented by tamarind sauce and premium caviar, delivering a luxurious umami depth.

Moving on to appetizers, the Lhon Scallop presents fresh Hokkaido scallops enhanced with Thai-inspired sauces and chili oil, while diced cucumber and lemongrass add an aromatic brightness. The Tom Morn offers a bold Myanmar-style soup with a strong sour and spicy profile, which on its own might be intense, but pairs beautifully with crispy-fried sea bass, striking a perfect balance between acidity and richness. Meanwhile, the Khao Mun Gai reinvents Thailand’s beloved chicken rice dish, with fermented soy-based sauce enhancing the flavors. The stuffed chicken wings filled with rice, however, are relatively mild compared to the other components.

The main courses showcase the restaurant’s skill in reinventing street food and traditional dishes. The Papaya Fish Red Curry delivers a rich and aromatic Korat-style red curry that complements the firm yet succulent Chilean sea bass. The Holy Basil Beef features premium Angus beef, grilled to perfection and paired with a robust sauce made from Thai holy basil and chili, creating an intense, aromatic dish. Moo Ping, a Thai street food classic, is reinterpreted using tender, well-marinated pork cheeks, grilled until juicy and slightly charred, served with a flavorful fermented dipping sauce. The accompanying JR’s Rice, made with high-quality Thai jasmine rice, is infused with herbs and spices, making it the perfect pairing for the rich main courses.

For dessert, the Taeng Thai Nam Kati highlights Thai cantaloupe in the form of a refreshing ice cream, served with chewy mochi and coconut accents—light yet deeply satisfying. To conclude, the Khob Khun Krub presents a petit four-style selection of mini desserts, featuring diverse flavors and textures, adding a playful element to the final course.

Ambiance and Service

80/20 combines nostalgic Thai influences with an industrial-chic aesthetic, creating a modern yet inviting fine dining environment. The open kitchen design allows guests to observe the culinary team in action, adding an interactive element to the experience. The service is professional yet warm, with servers providing detailed explanations of each dish, while the head chef occasionally makes appearances to personally introduce key dishes, fostering a personal connection with diners.

Cocktail Pairings

Complementing its innovative cuisine, 80/20 also offers a well-curated cocktail selection. Signature drinks include the NHAM-DOKMAI, a gin-based cocktail infused with Thai flowers and aromatic spices, and SOI 26, which blends local fruits and herbs for a refreshing botanical profile. These creative cocktails serve as excellent aperitifs, setting the stage for the meal. Additionally, the restaurant offers a meticulously designed wine pairing menu, carefully curated to enhance the flavors of each course.

A Must-Visit for Thai Fine Dining Enthusiasts

80/20 successfully bridges traditional Thai flavors with modern culinary artistry, allowing familiar dishes to be experienced in an entirely new way. For those who appreciate Thai cuisine with a creative and refined twist, this Michelin-starred restaurant is undoubtedly worth a visit.