Image reproduced from Yahoo! 奇摩新聞

In Khao Yai, Thailand, a street food stall has transformed over the past decade into the renowned Penlaos Khaoyai, a restaurant that not only serves authentic Northeastern Thai (Isan) cuisine but has also been awarded the Michelin Bib Gourmand for two consecutive years. This place is more than just a dining venue; it's a journey through flavors and spices.

Originally, Penlaos Khaoyai was merely a roadside stall specializing in Northeastern Thai and Laotian cuisine. Unlike many other restaurants that chase extravagant decor, this establishment focuses on craftsmanship and the selection of ingredients. Through word of mouth, it has grown from a local eatery into one of the hottest dining destinations in Khao Yai.

Today, Penlaos Khaoyai attracts countless travelers, with the Michelin Bib Gourmand sign hanging prominently at the entrance serving as a key reason for many to stop by and discover what lies within. The spacious restaurant features a parking area and a garden filled with whimsical decorations, creating a relaxed and joyful atmosphere for patrons.

The menu is akin to a thick book, boasting over 200 dishes that can dazzle diners. Among these options, several have won over the hearts of customers, becoming memorable favorites.

Dishes such as the spicy papaya salad present a perfect harmony of sour and spicy, while the herb-roasted chicken possesses a slightly charred exterior with juicy meat inside, offering an impressive flavor.

Another highly recommended dish is the Tom Saap Hed, a spicy mushroom soup rich in spices that warms the soul. The grilled pork neck is crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfectly paired with a Thai-style spicy dip.

The spicy beef salad, with fresh mint and pungent onions, features tender slices of beef and delivers the right amount of heat, lifting spirits with each bite. Additionally, the stewed chicken is tender and flavorful, its rich broth making it ideal for pairing with rice or enjoying solo.

Another must-try is the deep-fried pork strips, crisp and light, providing an addictive taste that keeps diners coming back for more. When it comes to Isan cuisine, sticky rice is essential. Here at Penlaos, the sticky rice is cooked perfectly, each grain distinct yet sticky, and it pairs beautifully with any of the meat dishes.

When visiting Khao Yai, don't overlook the culinary experience at Penlaos Khaoyai. This restaurant not only carries the Michelin Bib Gourmand accolade but also embodies the essence of local flavors that resonate with both the palate and the heart.

If you, like me, value not just the taste of food but the memories created with it, Penlaos Khaoyai will be a place you’ll want to revisit. Be sure to order a plate of grilled chicken, a bowl of spicy salad, and a basket of sticky rice, and let the aromas and spices unfold in your mouth, as a feast of Isan cuisine begins.