Basil Thai 15 — Restaurant in Khlong Toei Nuea Subdistrict

This is an absolute must for those who are searching for true southern Thai cuisine.

The restaurant is located in a very hidden alley with a gate (if the gate is not locked, you can enter). Compared to the commercial glamor of malls, the restaurant looks questionable. Put your fears aside!

The two ladies working are very nice and accommodating. We initially ordered Pad See Ew with pork, Pad Kra Pao with beef, and water spinach/morning glory.

Compared to anything we had up to that point, I can only say wow. So much flavor yet nuanced so one component didn't overpower another.

Each small speck of beef in the Pad Kra Pao packed flavor as if every grain was marinated and carefully browned. The Pad See Ew noodles were cooked just right--not disintegrating or broken but delightfully chewy. The vegetables, including the tomato, integrated perfectly with flavor and doneness. The wok left that characteristic smokey note that this dish must have and the flavor was wonderful. Lastly, the water spinach was delicate yet flavorful. They did not use fibrous pieces that you typically see elsewhere but only leaves and small stems. The seasoning was heavy enough to add flavor but lighter to enjoy the spinach. It reminded me of almost a Japanese preparation in its appreciation of the core ingredient. For all these dishes, we utilized--in varying levels--their prik nam pla provided on the table to add a tangy note to further brighten these dishes (avoid the chilis when scooping the sauce if you cannot handle spice).

We were blown away by these dishes, and our tongue dominated our stomach and we ordered the crispy pork belly with kale (pad pak kana moo krob). We haven't seen this dish outside of Thailand and the cook recommended it. I am thankful she did. Incredible. Intense flavor, spice, and, once again, cooked to perfection. I kept moaning while eating from the mix of immense joy, fullness, and spice. A core memory dish.

Do come here without pretention. Trust the process, and enjoy bold Thai flavor that is lost amongst the watered-down versions...

Stumbling upon this gem was a stroke of luck for us! Tired of falling into tourist traps in Sukhumvit, we found this cozy spot just a block away from our hotel, and what a delightful find it turned out to be!

Benjawan, the wonderful owner, greeted us warmly every time we visited (which ended up being four times during our stay!). Her infectious smile and upbeat attitude made each meal feel like a special occasion.

We savored every bite of the Basil Chicken, Basil Pork, Pad Thai, and a few other dishes that slipped my mind now. But the highlight came on our last day when Benjawan surprised us with a simple yet delicious egg omelette with onions and tomatoes. It was a small gesture that spoke volumes about her kindness and hospitality.

In a neighborhood where tourist traps abound, finding a place run by genuine locals like Benjawan is a rare treat. This spot is a definite must-visit in Sukhumvit, not just for the incredible food but for the authentic experience of connecting with true locals. Highly...

Small Thai restaurant, a little bit hidden, located at Sukhumvit 15 Soi across from NIST near Nana Chard Pier.

I would recommend a combo of Pad Kra Pao and Som Tam - both prepared to perfection, juicy meat packed with basil flavor, runny egg and nice rice, such a classic alongside fresh papaya salad - crunchy and savory. Works perfectly.

The other day I just jumped out at lunch break for a short walk and ordered Pad Thai. What a superb mix of sweet-savory-sour, packed with loads of juicy shrimps and crushed peanuts.

Feels like family-run, clean, with fast service and nice atmosphere. Often crowded by locals. Easy to communicate in English so you could order the food you like with exact level of spiciness.

An absolute must-visit for those who are looking for true Thai cuisine...