Knowing people around the world is a great thing for food and this is what led me to crab curry at Harmonique in Bangkok.
This was via a long term expat friend who not only speaks great Thai, but seems to have his finger on the pulse when it comes to local dining.
Table of Contents
What the Harmonique?
Harmonique Restaurant is a charming spot tucked away in the bustling streets of Bangkok’s old town, near the historic Rattanakosin area. Opened in the early 2000s, this restaurant quickly became a favorite for both locals and tourists looking for authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. The location, a few blocks from the Grand Palace, makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the city’s rich heritage.
Stepping inside Harmonique, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting decor that combines traditional Thai elements with a vintage touch. The walls are adorned with wood paneling, local artwork, and antique decorations, creating a homey feel that contrasts with the bustling city outside. The indoor and outdoor seating areas are spacious, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in a relaxed setting.
In fact one might even describe the juxtaposition of so many retro stuff with the fairy limited seating space as almost being endearing and indeed all that more exclusive looking. We personally sat on a three seater table which would not have been out of place at a cafe! This though did not destroy, but rather enhanced the ambience.
The Harmonique Menu
At Harmonique Restaurant in Bangkok, the menu is a tasty mix of authentic Thai dishes and some fun fusion options. You can’t go wrong with their Thai Shrimp Curry, which is often praised for its rich flavors and perfectly cooked shrimp—it’s a standout that keeps folks coming back. Alongside the curries and stir-fries, you’ll find a selection of fresh fruit juices made from local ingredients, as well as fresh coconut and the like rot quench your thirst.
Theres a decent array of beers on the menu, but pretty much everyone goes from Beer Lao, a drink that is now the obsession of pretty much every hipster from Bangkok all the way up to Yangshuo. The people of Laos like it to, but for different reasons.
The vibe here is relaxed, making it a great spot to enjoy good food without the fuss. If you’re in the mood for a real taste of Thailand with a twist, Harmonique is worth a visit.
Overall……
I personally really enjoyed the overall vibe of the place, as well as just how far removed it has you from the hedonism of the Khao San Road and the like. In fact you get the distinct impression that those kind of people would not head out all this way for what would be at least a medium priced meal for the city. Not least when you can get a Kebab on Khao San.
There is also a quiet serenity to the place that is a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of things. Personally our group had the infamous crab that curry, which was great, but also some great roti and meat dishes. I personally had me some raw shrimp which was equal to any that I have had before, something to say when you eat as much raw fish as I do.
Harmonique Bangkok Address
To get there from Khao San Road, you have a couple of options. A taxi will take about 10 minutes, depending on traffic, and you can expect to pay around 50-80 baht. Just make sure the driver uses the meter.
If you prefer public transport, grab a tuk-tuk or hop on a motorbike taxi, which is a quick and fun way to navigate the bustling streets. This costs around 180 Baht if you take a Grab, but if you hail from the street you will be lucky to get 250, depending on your Thai skills.
Harmonique Restaurant is located at 34, 36 Soi Ram Buttri, Taladyod, Pranakorn, Bangkok 10200, Thailand.