Bangkok’s “old town” is getting busier with the increasing number of cafes and restaurants opening in the area. Adding to the old town landscape is Im En Ville, a concept building.
A short walk from MRT Sam Yot through winding alleyways, offering glimpses into people’s lives and shophouses, Im (Thai word for full stomach) En Ville has taken over an old printing house on Fueng Nakorn Road, offering views of Wat Ratchabophit. The three-storeyed building is all about food and there are a minimum of three kitchens in operation at any given time.
Café Ìm is on the first floor and offers a range of speciality coffees, teas and other crafted beverages. The floor-to-ceiling glass windows offers street side views and the tops of the neighbouring temple. The cafe also offers freshly-baked pastries, though there are sandwiches and light bites to be had here.
Next door, within the building, is a small kitchen that serves traditional Thai dishes, from curries to spicy stir-fries and chicken rice — at affordable prices and is the takeaway section of the building. Though, there are a few tables to sit at for a break from the hot sun.
The second floor is home to Bistro 59, which serves up comforting dishes with a twist of Asian flair. The restaurant overlooks Wat Ratchabophit and if you’re lucky enough, you may catch a glimpse of the abbot Somdet Phra Ariyavongsagatanana, who is also the current Supreme Patriarch of Thailand.
The menu at Bistro 59 features options like Grilled pork chop served with creamy mash and homemade apple jam, or Seafood spaghetti in a pad kee mao-style. Locally-sourced Heirloom tomato salad prepared carpaccio-style and served with sweet basil oil, homemade croutons and stracciatella.
There are burgers for those who want to sink their teeth into something more substantial with homemade sauce. The Mushroom barley risotto is made using six types of locally-grown mushrooms. Desserts see the likes of Sticky toffee pudding made with southern dates and sugarcane, and Raspberry chocolate cake. The Bistro is an all-day dining spot.
If you’re into just desserts, Maison Ìm, also on the second floor, indulges your sweet tooth with their delights. The counter offers freshly-baked cakes, pastries and cookies, and even buttery croissants. Eat in or takeaway.
Im en ville is at 59 Fueng Nakhon Road. Call 065-612-6688 or visit fb.com/imenville.
