Akkee – Going Where Few Forks Have Gone Before
Spotted this Michelin-starred hidden gem on Google Maps while hunting for unique dining experiences, and boy, am I glad I did. Located a bit away from Bangkok’s usual bustle, Akkee instantly felt special.
The welcome was warm – the staff called me by my name after confirming my booking and even wished me for my birthday (which was a few days ago). A thoughtful touch that already set the tone.
The setting was elegant yet inviting. As I settled in at my reserved table, the menu revealed the real surprise: Ant’s Egg Season (April 2025). No way I was missing that!
The meal began with a delicate amuse-bouche: a seafood bite perched inside a sweet yellow plum. Light, juicy, and a perfect curtain-raiser.
First beer? Samakkee Lager – crisp, hoppy, and just what the doctor (or should I say, ant whisperer) ordered.
Then things got wild: Fried assorted insects featuring Silk Worm, Cicada, and Giant Cricket. • The cricket and cicada were crunchy, earthy, and surprisingly moreish. • The silk worm had a crunchy exterior but revealed a soft, almost creamy interior. Street food vibes at a Michelin-star table – and yes, no hygiene worries here!
For the mains: • Grilled Egg with Ant’s Egg in Banana Leaf – a beautifully spiced, rustic dish that let the ant eggs’ nutty notes shine. • Roasted Subterranean Ant – big, red, with a delightful crunch and a whisper of tang.
Spotted a Crab Omelette on the menu too. Since I sadly missed trying Jay Fai this time (thanks to Songkran closures), I figured why not? This version was lighter and worked as the perfect balancing dish after all the insecty adventures.
Second beer? Manta Pilsner – smooth, refreshing, and frankly, stole the show from the first one.
Just when I thought the evening was wrapping up, the team surprised me with a coconut and pandan dessert as a birthday treat. Soft, fragrant, and the perfect sweet ending.
Had a wonderful chat with Chef Sittikorn Chantop, the passionate brain behind Akkee. His humility and pride in what they’re building here was inspiring. Also took a moment to appreciate the amazing staff – they truly made the experience shine.
From ants to omelettes, from bugs to beers, this was an adventure I’ll remember for a long time. The insects and bugs chapter may be closed for now, but you can be sure I’ll be back for more of what...
Read moreAkkee completely reset my expectations. I tasted flavours and combinations I had never experienced before. The whole meal was beautifully balanced, with each dish forming part of a clear and confident journey. Easily the best Thai meal I have ever had.
The restaurant is modest and unpretentious, with an open kitchen behind glass where you can see Chef Sittikorn and his team at work. He even took the time to speak with us and show us around. The set menu is the way to go. Dishes showed real skill and tradition without feeling stuck in the past.
The wine and beer flight was well matched — the beer especially was excellent, though we would have loved a little more of it.
The custom plates were a standout. Beautifully made and nothing like the usual Michelin issue ware — they added something special to the whole experience.
We arrived late due to traffic, but the staff were welcoming and understanding. One small note: the lavatory could do with a refresh. Not a deal breaker, just an observation.
Akkee is outside central Bangkok in Nonthaburi, but absolutely worth the journey. Michelin calls it “worth a detour” and for once, I...
Read moreAKKEE Thai Delicacies and Tasting Counter stands out as a unique culinary destination, offering a delightful array of rare and hard-to-find Thai dishes that will impress any foodie. The moment you step in, the intimate and welcoming atmosphere sets the stage for an extraordinary dining experience.
One of the standout offerings is the dry-aged beef tongue, a dish that showcases AKKEE's commitment to quality and innovation. The beef tongue is meticulously prepared, boasting a tender texture and rich flavor that is both distinctive and memorable. Each bite melts in your mouth, revealing layers of complex, savory notes that are enhanced by expert seasoning and cooking techniques.
The menu at AKKEE is a treasure trove of Thai delicacies that you won’t easily find elsewhere. From rare regional specialties to traditional dishes with a contemporary twist, every item reflects a deep respect for Thai culinary heritage and a passion for excellence. The chefs at AKKEE take pride in sourcing the finest ingredients and employing authentic cooking methods, resulting in dishes that are as visually stunning as they...
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