Diversity aside, however, you'll miss the boat to this culinary port if you don't taste the local specialties. Most people agree that eating Thai food is one of the more sensual dining experiences. Probably the best Thai restaurant in the whole country. Owned by the Oriental Hotel, this exquisitely furnished traditional Thai pavilion sits across the river from the hotel.
Diners arrive by private boat.
Daily 1 to 2 pm and 7 to 11 pm. Major credit cards. 48 Oriental Ave. Le Banyan Bangkok's premier French restaurant offers both traditional and nouvelle cuisine in a lovely, colonial-style house with gardens. The wine list is astounding, and so are the prices.