Bangkok’s fine dining lures tourists

When chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn first opened his Thai fine dining establishment Le Du in Bangkok in 2013, his four-course set menu was 990 baht (US$28 today). It was a steal compared to fine dining establishments worldwide, but a fortune in a city where Thai cuisine had for decades been characterised as street food.

Chef Ton was told he would be forced to close within months for charging so much for food made with local products. On nearby sidewalks, dishes featuring similar ingredients were available for less than a dollar.  

The chef, of course, prevailed. Le Du currently has a Michelin star, and chef Ton has a second restaurant, Nusara. The classic Thai eatery—named after his grandmother and located near the royal palace—is ranked No.3 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list. 

Le Du and Nusara are two of a cluster of upscale restaurants in the Thai capital…