The appeal of Thai cuisine originates from its dynamic flavour profile, seamlessly marrying sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. The popularity of Thailand as a travel destination for Bangladeshis has greatly contributed to the widespread appreciation of Thai cuisine here. Many individuals who have had the opportunity to visit the country feel a strong emotional connection to its unique flavours, creating a nostalgic bond and fuelling a desire to recreate those experiences in everyday life. In addition, the younger demographic’s growing interest in exploring lesser-known dishes and culinary creations has propelled the cuisine’s popularity. Furthermore, there has been a demand for Thai food to be more affordable and accessible for everyday dining, rather than reserved for formal occasions.
Responding to those preferences, Khao San, a Thai restaurant in Dhaka, takes diners on a journey through the bustling energy and rich culinary heritage of Thailand’s street food scene with a refreshingly casual set-up, unlike traditional Thai eateries, which opt for a more formal experience. Founded by Sameem, Bushra, Mustafid, and Taposh, it was launched in February 2023 in Dhanmondi and opened its newest outlet in Gulshan 1 earlier this year. It is named after the famous Khao San Road in Bangkok.
There is always a good time to be had at one of the many bars and clubs of this iconic spot, as well as plenty of tasty street food to try and souvenir shopping to do. Drawing inspiration from this lively spirit, the Khao San in Dhaka offers a warm, relaxed, and inviting space, reminiscent of its Bangkok namesake. It strives to transport diners to a streetside eatery in Bangkok, with the sizzling woks and aroma of Thai spices emanating from the kitchen, along with cosy seating arrangements and soft lighting. Its interior features vibrant colours, wooden accents, and subtle Thai motifs, creating an immersive and visually appealing experience.
At Khao San, the preservation of the authenticity and exceptional taste of Thai cuisine is a top priority. Several measures are implemented to ensure that only the highest-quality ingredients are used, including direct sourcing from local producers and suppliers who provide fresh and authentic ingredients unique to Thai cuisine, such as Thai basil, galangal, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves, and conducting regular quality checks. Furthermore, chefs at the restaurant use their expertise and knowledge to pick the finest ingredients, leading to dishes that not only taste amazing but also remain true to accurate Thai flavours. Menus are planned according to seasonality in the case of dishes such as Mango over Sticky Rice, encouraging the use of ingredients when they taste the best.
Khao San’s menu reflects regional influences and specialties, particularly paying homage to Northern Thai cuisine, known for being bold and flavourful, with ample use of herbs and spices. It offers an exciting array of reasonably priced dishes, from aromatic curries to zesty salads, catering to a broad range of palates. The restaurant’s focus on affordability, authenticity, and accessibility allows diners to explore the intricate depths of Thai cuisine in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere without worrying about formalities and high prices, mirroring the experience of discovering a hidden gem in the heart of Bangkok.
Among Khao San’s most popular offerings is the Tom Yum soup, a spicy, tangy, and aromatic Thai classic, infused with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers. It is typically loaded with prawns, chicken, mushrooms, and other fresh ingredients, creating a vibrant and satisfying bowl that tantalises the taste buds. The Pad Thai, a beloved stir-fried rice noodle dish, comes with prawns, chicken, bean sprouts, and a flavourful sauce made with tamarind, fish sauce, and palm sugar. It is garnished with crushed peanuts, fresh limes, and cilantro, adding a delightful crunch and brightness to every bite. The Som Tam is a refreshing and zesty salad made with shredded green papaya, peanuts, prawns, and fresh herbs. Its dressing typically includes lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and garlic, creating the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours.
Khao San’s menu reflects regional influences and specialties, particularly paying homage to Northern Thai cuisine, known for being bold and flavourful, with ample use of herbs and spices.
The Khao Soi is a Northern Thai specialty featuring egg noodles in a luxurious coconut curry broth, served with tender pieces of chicken or beef and topped with crispy noodles. The Chicken Green Curry, a fragrant and creamy blend of coconut milk, Thai eggplant, bamboo shoots, and chicken, is best enjoyed with steamed jasmine rice. For a sweet finale, the Coconut Ice Cream over Sticky Rice showcases a delectable combination of textures, topped with toasted peanuts for an elevated dining experience.
Khao San is dedicated to promoting Thai cuisine through an approach that appeals to a wide range of customers. By prioritising affordable menu options, a laid-back atmosphere, and exceptional customer service, it hopes to attract both experienced Thai food enthusiasts and those who are new to the cuisine. Furthermore, Khao San’s expansion plans involve introducing authentic Thai dishes to other parts of Bangladesh, which is admirable and exciting. The restaurant, with its unwavering commitment, is well on its way to becoming the go-to location for experiencing the best of Thai cuisine and creating lasting memories.