Charcoal Tandoor Grill & Mixology (Halal) — Restaurant in Khlong Toei Nuea Subdistrict

A Royal Feast with a Modern Twist at Charcoal Tandoor Grill & Mixology, Bangkok

Stepping into Charcoal Tandoor Grill & Mixology on the 5th floor of Fraser Suites Sukhumvit is like embarking on a culinary journey that marries the regal splendor of Mughlai Indian cuisine with the vibrant pulse of modern Bangkok. This gem of a restaurant has redefined Indian dining with its masterful blend of centuries-old recipes, innovative mixology, and an ambiance that’s as captivating as the food itself. My recent visit was nothing short of extraordinary, and I’m already counting down to my next.

The menu at Charcoal is a love letter to the royal kitchens of the Mughals, with a focus on tandoori kebabs and dishes from India’s Northwestern frontier, all elevated with a contemporary flair. The Murgh Malai Kebab, with its succulent chicken marinated in cream cheese and yogurt, was a melt-in-the-mouth revelation, bursting with subtle spices and charred to perfection in their copper-clad tandoor ovens. The Sikandar ki Raan, a slow-cooked leg of lamb, was a showstopper—tender, aromatic, and fit for royalty. Even the vegetarian offerings, like the Tandoori Malai Broccoli, were a triumph, with creamy, smoky flavors that could convert any carnivore. The Dal Charcoal, slow-cooked overnight with tomatoes and ginger, was a soul-warming ode to tradition, paired perfectly with their Truffle Cheese Naan, which added a decadent modern twist. Every bite was a testament to the chefs skills in balancing authenticity with innovation.

What sets Charcoal apart, however, is its trailblazing approach to mixology, curated by the legendary Joseph Boroski. The cocktail menu is a playful exploration of Indian flavors, and the “New Delhi Duty Free” cocktail, served in a sealed duty-free bag, was as theatrical as it was delicious—a spicy, refreshing blend of Bacardi, mango, chili, and watermelon soda. The “1947 Independence,” with its clove-infused vodka and hibiscus syrup, was a nod to history with a frothy, tart finish that paired beautifully with the kebabs. My personal favorite, the “Maharaja Mai Tai,” allowed for customization and arrived with a side of fresh orange and pineapple, infusing the rum-based drink with a tropical zing. Each cocktail was a work of art, thoughtfully designed to complement the bold flavors of the food, making every sip an adventure.

The service at Charcoal is nothing short of impeccable. The staff, led by the attentive and knowledgeable Swapnil, exuded warmth and expertise, guiding us through the menu with spot-on recommendations and genuine enthusiasm. They ensured our glasses were never empty and even surprised us with a paan—a sweet, aromatic betel leaf after meal that was the perfect palate cleanser. Their attention to detail, from explaining the origins of each dish to ensuring our dietary preferences were met, made us feel like honored guests in a royal court.

The ambiance is where Charcoal truly shines, striking a perfect balance between industrial chic and Indian opulence. The neo-industrial interior, with its dark woods, perforated metal screens, and vibrant spice library, feels both modern and timeless. Subtle nods to India—like the dabbawallah-inspired decor and colonial punkah ceiling fans—add character without overwhelming the sleek design. The moment you step out of the elevator, you’re greeted by glowing orange aluminum squares and the tantalizing aroma of tandoori smoke. High ceilings, perfectly spaced tables, and a view of the pool deck create an airy, sophisticated vibe that’s ideal for everything from romantic dinners to lively group gatherings. The soft lighting and curated playlist only enhance the experience, making every moment feel special.

Charcoal Tandoor Grill & Mixology is more than a restaurant—it’s a celebration of India’s culinary heritage reimagined for the modern palate. The food is exceptional, the cocktails are unforgettable, the service is flawless, and the ambiance is pure magic. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply seeking a dining...

This is an upscale Indian restaurant so expect to pay around 3000 Bahts and above for a decent meal for 2. Cocktails would add to the cost.

Since it is an upscale restaurant it is also expected to be great on all fronts and hence this review would be a rather detailed one.

To begin with when we called this restaurant around 8, there were no seats available and we were given a slot of 9.30 and also informed that dress code for this place is smart casuals. We were late but we ensured we kept them informed about our time of arrival which we were kind of agree to.

When we reached the restaurant (5th floor of Fraser suites hotel), there was no one at the entrance to take us to our seats.

Upon entering the place we saw the entire team busy serving guests. One of the supervisors (guy in light blue shirt) nudged a serving staff to get us seated after we informed them that we had a reservation. He also specified a table where we were to be seated. Unfortunately this table turned out to be one which seemed suitable for 2. We informed the staff we were not ok with table since we made the effort to reserve a table for 3. So they moved us to a larger table.

We noticed a lot of westerners and middle eastern customers sitting in the restaurant wearing anything but smart casuals - shorts, torn jeans etc. why does this place have a dress code if it does not intend to apply it? When you don’t believe in your rules, you display lack of conviction. Also you make people who follow rules look stupid.

The server attending us was an Indian but was neutral to the fact that he was attending to Indian customers. This is a disease only we Indians have. We just don’t acknowledge our countrymen outside the country. Any other nationality displays so much warmth when they meet each other outside. It would have been so much better if he had greeted us in Hindi and met us as an Indian. In our country food is not just about filling your stomach. It is offered to God, made with love, served as a community, so many aspects which focus on the service and feeling as much as the quality of the food. Sadly, this place stayed purely commercial on this front.

The guy who took our order was helpful in suggesting the items and also recommending the correct quantity to avoid wastage. This place is not for single eaters unless you have a big appetite.

Also they deliberately don’t have many main course dishes, which we felt was a honest thing to do considering the range of grilled stuff they have on offer. Some people used to having their gravies with roti would have to cope with this or settle with one or two options available.

The food and drinks here are top notch and bring you very very close to the best available in India. The water is priced obnoxiously high (again not in the Indian spirit - water must be served as soon as guest arrives). Every food item and drink (except water) served here does justice to the price charged and you get value for your money.

We had no space in our tummies for desserts but they must be good going by the food we had.

At the exit there is a Pan shop which seems decorated well but again had no attendant so we did not bother to try any.

Overall a good place if you are looking for classy Indian food in Bangkok. A little away from being superlative but then every place does not intend to be make that arduous journey...

Charcoal holds a special place in my heart. Generally the thugs and ignoramuses that run other Indian restaurants have no clue when it comes to providing proper ambiance and service in the sphere of Indian food.

Charcoal is different. They’ve looked at every aspect of the dining experience and made for a fairly seamless and enjoyable experience.

I walked into the restaurant alone without a reservation. Unfortunately, it took some time for the staff to greet me, and they didn't properly inform me that I could have a beverage while waiting for a table. I went to the bar anyways. After mentioning they would check to find a seat with me, there was no further communication until I was almost finished my first cocktail and fearing that I would be turned away, I had to ask again. This lack of clear communication didn't instill much confidence in their service. (-1 point).

At the bar, I quickly glanced at the menu (it’s a bit dim in the restaurant making for great ambience but not great reading) and saw that they had some special Indian negroni. Turned out to be the Negroni cart served table side (400฿). I didn’t pick up on the point until I was actually about to be moved to my table and questioned why I hadn’t been asked about the the various options for the cocktail. Turns out they have a standard Charcoal Paan Negroni (350฿) on the menu which the bartender, instead of informing me, just made for me. Cocktail wasn’t anything to write home about and really just resembled a standard Negroni. (-1 point)

The good stuff: For this restaurant, the food really stands out.

Some cocktails are bound to be excellent - Maharaja Mai Tai did it for me.

Truffle cheese naan is remarkable. Why can’t other Indian restaurants serve food like this?, I muse, but then it boils down to the ownership of the competitors’ restaurants and their ability to walk upright/pick their knuckles up off the pavement and understand that they’re not in the Pind (countryside/sticks).

Lamb seekh kebab, again, perfect. Not overpowering. Not gamy. Properly cooked. Excellent.

I also appreciate they accommodated me on a smaller size (off-menu) daal dish after they saw what I had ordered and understanding that I couldn’t possibly eat everything I requested.

Thank you.

The restaurant was really popular/busy on my last visit so I suppose a lot of people agree with my analysis that this is the only Indian restaurant you should visit in Bangkok. Ignore the touts on the street for other places. Super annoying.

Overall very good dining experience. Charcoal bridges the gap between eastern and western sensibilities.

They can certainly look at a couple small points for greeting/triage as well as not leaving money on the table and instilling confidence with the guest to earn top marks on my next visit.

3/5 stars - will definitely, without a...