Michelin Mission: 5 Starred Restaurants to Discover in Thailand

For culinary explorers, Thailand’s Michelin starred restaurants offer world-class dining infused with Thai soul. These prestigious destinations celebrate Thailand’s diverse culinary heritage while pushing boundaries with creativity, technique, and storytelling. From Bangkok’s bold innovations to Chiang Mai’s serene sophistication, here are five exceptional restaurants worth the gastronomic pilgrimage.

These starred gems are not just places to eat, but destinations that celebrate the depth and diversity of Thai cuisine with every bite.

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1. Sorn (Bangkok)

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Sorn is more than a restaurant—it’s a cultural journey into Southern Thailand’s rich culinary traditions. Housed in a beautifully restored mansion, the dining experience is rooted in slow-cooked techniques and deep respect for regional ingredients. Chef Supaksorn “Ice” Jongsiri curates an evolving tasting menu that showcases rare herbs, fermented elements, and seafood sourced directly from southern fishermen. Every dish comes with a story, connecting diners to the geography and spirit of the region. Although Sorn has since earned three Michelin stars, its original one-star legacy reflects the passion and precision that laid its foundation. The intimate ambiance and detailed presentation make each meal feel both personal and profound.

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2. Chim by Siam Wisdom (Bangkok)

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Nestled inside a traditional teak house surrounded by greenery, Chim by Siam Wisdom bridges the gap between royal Thai cuisine and nostalgic street fare. Helmed by Chef Thaninthorn “Noom” Chantrawan, a former Iron Chef Thailand winner, the restaurant offers both à la carte and set menus. Dishes like crispy pork belly with chili-lime dressing or tom kha soup reimagined with premium seafood reflect a balance of innovation and authenticity. Every plate is a tribute to Thailand’s culinary heritage—elevated through modern presentation and fine ingredients. Chim’s charm lies in its ability to surprise while remaining grounded in comfort and tradition, making it a mainstay in the Michelin Guide.

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3. Samrub Samrub Thai (Bangkok)

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Samrub Samrub Thai is an intimate chef’s table that offers a deep dive into ancient Thai gastronomy. Chef Prin Polsuk, formerly of the globally renowned Nahm, leads the experience with scholarly dedication. He revives lesser-known recipes from historic Thai cookbooks and adapts them using seasonal produce and traditional techniques. With only a handful of seats per evening, the restaurant delivers not just a meal, but an education in Thai culture and cuisine. Flavors are layered and complex—think curry with fermented fish or banana blossoms in coconut milk—crafted to spark conversation and curiosity. Its Michelin star affirms its role as a culinary conservator and innovator.

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4. Pru (Phuket)

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Phuket’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, Pru, stands out for its deep commitment to sustainability and locality. The name, short for “plant, raise, understand,” encapsulates Chef Jimmy Ophorst’s philosophy. With a focus on zero-waste cooking, the restaurant sources nearly all its ingredients from its own farm, “Pru Jampa,” and nearby producers. Diners enjoy a seasonal tasting menu that reflects the Thai landscape—wild herbs, root vegetables, fresh seafood—all plated with European finesse and a touch of whimsy. From the serene dining room overlooking a garden to the delicate interplay of textures and flavors, Pru redefines what it means to eat close to the land.

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5. Cuisine de Garden (Chiang Mai)

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In the serene northern city of Chiang Mai, Cuisine de Garden reinterprets nature on a plate. The restaurant blends modernist techniques with rustic, foraged ingredients to create edible art. Chef Leelawat “Nan” Mankongtiphan draws inspiration from childhood memories and the surrounding forests, resulting in dishes that are both imaginative and nostalgic. Expect courses like river prawns wrapped in wild leaves or desserts infused with smoky notes from local wood. The presentation is theatrical yet thoughtful—each plate invites diners to connect with nature in a new way. Cuisine de Garden is a proud representative of Chiang Mai’s rising fine dining movement.

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