The newly opened 168 Yi Liu Ba in Yaowarat, nestled within one of the area’s historical buildings, is making the most of its rich heritage. A multi-level dining establishment, Yi Liu Ba (168, but phonetically “fortune all the way”) opened in early October, combining Chinese and Thai traditions and flavors.
The restaurant is headed by internationally awarded Chef Por, who has crafted a menu that fuses Chinese and Thai cooking techniques; 168 Yi Liu Ba offers an all-inclusive dining experience under one roof, with a bar, restaurant, and a live music area. The restaurant’s interior design pays homage to the timeless allure of Old Town, with exposed brick walls and ceilings, leather seats, Chinese girl posters, and a dimly lit underground ambiance that makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
The menu offers plenty of variety. For starters, try the melon and mint-infused watermelon salad (B340). This innovative twist on an authentic Thai salad combines sweet Japanese watermelon infused with melon essence and complemented with savory dried fish for a sweet and salty refreshing appetizer. You could also try two different spring roll options: Peking shrimp (B340) and the Shanghai pork (B300), both featuring marinated shrimp or pork, vermicelli, mushrooms, and a side of chili sauce.
For mains, you can indulge in brown rice noodles and gyoza veggie soup (B280). This comforting dish consists of brown rice vermicelli and vegetarian gyoza in a goji berry-infused broth, generously enhanced with shiitake mushrooms and a zesty lime chili sauce. Alternatively, there's also the sous vide noodles with shrimp paste, tender noodles infused with rich shrimp paste, slow-cooked sweet pork, scrambled egg, and Chinese sausage.
Can something be sweet and umami at the same time? Find out at dessert with the salted egg indulgence tart (B280), a unique twist on a chocolate fondant. It’s a fusion of salted egg complemented by strawberries. If you’re a fan of mango and sticky rice, give the mango and sticky rice panna cotta (B280) a try.
After your meal, head to the bar for a curated selection of craft cocktails, fine wines, premium cognacs, and Japanese whiskies. International DJs spin vinyl records on the second floor. This joint stays open late, so get your late-night chow on.
605 Charoen Krung Road., 093-110-2889, Open Tues-Sun 5pm-late