Restaurant Review: Art Gallery Cafe in Bangkok, Thailand

This calming cafe is a great place to go to escape the heat in Bangkok's river district.

Location

The Art Gallery Cafe is on Soi 30 off of Charoen Krung Road. It's just a few minute walk from the Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel, making it a convenient lunch stop for those attending conferences or fairs at the Royal Orchid.

Ambiance

Every about the Art Gallery Cafe has a soothing effect. From the interesting art adorning the walls, to the soft Asian music playing in the background, the friendly service, and the simple yet elegant wooden tables, this place exudes a calm that is a great escape from the chaos of the city. Fresh flowers are on every table, and you can choose from indoor or outdoor seating. Indoor seating has air conditioning, so you might want to bring a shawl or sweater if you get cold easily.

Food

The menu offers traditional Thai cuisine. You can get soups, salads, noodle dishes, curries and rice dishes. Most entrees were from 150 baht ($4.30) and up. I ordered the Thai Fried Rice with Chinese Sausage and a small pot of Jasmine Tea. The tea came right away and the food came within minutes. It was served on top of a large green leaf in a wicker basket, and it looked and smelled delicious. The portion was generous and I was full before finishing it all. The taste was good, nothing really exceptional, but fresh and pleasant.

Conclusion

I didn't visit here again during the rest of my stay in Bangkok, and that was mainly because I could get similarly tasty food for around 35 baht ($1). The atmosphere of a 35 baht meal place may not be as nice as the Art Gallery Cafe, but I was traveling solo and didn't have much need for an intimate or very comfortable setting. If I was traveling with my husband, or wanted to meet someone out for lunch, I would certainly go to the Art Gallery Cafe again. The service was friendly and fast, and the calming atmosphere is a nice break from doing business or being busy as a tourist.

You can find the Art Gallery Cafe from the Royal Orchid Sheraton by turning right when leave the main gate. Stay on the main road as it curves towards Charoen Krung, and look for the sign for Art Gallery Cafe on your right hand side.