Dining at Le Du in Bangkok is like experiencing Thailand’s landscapes, harvests, and traditions all on a single plate. With its well-deserved Michelin star, the restaurant blends seasonal Thai ingredients with modern techniques, creating a tasting menu that feels both familiar and fresh.
The Vision Behind Le Du
Le Du’s name means “season” in Thai, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to changing its menu based on the country’s agricultural cycles. At the helm is Chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn, a Culinary Institute of America graduate who trained in world class kitchens such as Eleven Madison Park and The Modern in New York. Returning to Thailand, Chef Ton set out to prove that Thai cuisine, when presented with refinement and precision, could stand alongside the world’s best fine dining.
The Seasonal Tasting Menu
The night began with a beautifully illustrated menu card, each watercolor sketch capturing the artistry of the dishes we were about to enjoy. Here is what our six course experience looked like:
- Squid with Tomato Paste, Melon, and Chili Paste
A vibrant opening that balanced the ocean’s brininess with the sweetness of melon and the depth of a gently spiced chili paste. - Seasonal Vegetable Noodles with Mushroom Sauce
A delicate, earthy dish highlighting local produce, served with a subtle sauce that let the vegetables speak for themselves. - Goong Chae Nam Pla with Clams and Roasted Chili Jam
A bold play on the classic raw prawn dish, elevated with fresh clams and a smoky sweet chili jam that gave it layers of complexity. - Dry Aged Duck with Boat Bamboo and Roasted Chili
Perfectly cooked duck with a deep, rich flavor from careful aging, balanced by the vegetal notes of bamboo and a measured kick of roasted chili. - Seasonal Vegetables with Thai Herbs and Mushroom Sauce
A celebration of texture and freshness, where herbs and mushrooms brought earthy richness to every bite. - Kanom Krok with River Prawn, Curry Paste, and Coconut
A refined interpretation of the traditional Thai street snack, combining plump prawn, aromatic curry paste, and creamy coconut in perfect harmony.
Add on: Signature River Prawn
A show stopper of a dish, presenting the prawn in all its glory with flavors that captured the essence of Thai coastal cuisine.
The Experience
Le Du’s dining room is elegant yet welcoming, with warm lighting and attentive service that made the evening flow effortlessly. The team not only presented each dish with precision but also shared the inspiration and seasonal story behind it. Wine pairings were carefully chosen to complement the progression, from crisp whites with the seafood to richer reds for the duck.
Final Thoughts
Le Du is not simply a restaurant, it is a culinary narrative of Thailand’s seasons told by a chef who understands both the soul of Thai cooking and the discipline of world class gastronomy. If you find yourself in Bangkok, this Michelin starred experience is one you should not miss. It is a rare chance to taste Thailand’s bounty prepared with creativity, respect, and artistry.
