When it comes to the “highest” honours in Bangkok’s culinary scene, Chef Thitid “Ton” Tassanakajohn has officially raised the bar—literally.

Located on the 56th floor of The Empire (EA Rooftop) in the heart of Sathorn, Le Du Kaan is a masterclass in pairing world-class Thai cuisine with a view that rivals the food.

The experience begins long before the first bite. Entering the dedicated EA Rooftop lobby at The Empire, you are whisked away from the corporate hum of Sathorn via a high-speed lift. Stepping out onto the 56th floor, the atmosphere shifts from urban grit to ethereal luxury.

The highlight of the establishment is undeniably the outdoor rooftop terrace. Spanning over 800 square meters, the space is framed by an architectural “halo” of woven metal that catches the sunset glow.

With reflecting pools mirroring the sky and a 360-degree view of the Mahanakhon Tower and the Chao Phraya River, it is arguably the most sophisticated rooftop dining destination in the city.

While the flagship Le Du focuses on delicate seasonality, Le Du Kaan (meaning “to echo”) highlights the robust, smoky flavours of the Thai charcoal grill.

Chef Ton utilises Pradu wood smoke to elevate heritage ingredients, creating a menu that feels grounded in tradition but polished for the clouds.

Grilled Giant River Prawn: The undisputed star. The prawn is colossal, butterflied and grilled until the head fat transforms into a rich, custard-like sauce. Served with organic rice, it is a decadent homage to Ayutthaya’s river culture.

Smoked Pork Neck (Kor Moo Yang): This isn’t your average street food. The pork is dry-aged and smoked until the fat renders into a buttery texture, paired with a jaew sauce that offers a sharp, spicy counterpoint.

Dry-Aged Beef Curry: A deep, mahogany-colored curry where the beef is tender enough to eat with a spoon. The smoke from the grill permeates the meat, adding a layer of complexity rarely found in traditional curries.

The “Regions” Cocktails: Sipping a lemongrass-infused gin creation on the terrace as the city lights flicker on is the essential Le Du Kaan experience.

Le Du Kaan successfully steers clear of the “tourist trap” that often affects many rooftop restaurants. Located high above the crowded bars of Sukhumvit, it offers a level of culinary expertise that rivals renowned establishments like Nusara and Sorn, along with the added “wow” factor of its elevation above the EA Tower.

The service is attentive without being intrusive—a difficult balance to strike in such a high-energy environment. While the price point reflects its “destination” status, the quality of the ingredients and the sheer scale of the view justify the investment. Definitely a highlight of my trip.

Le Du Kaan is the definitive choice for celebratory dinners or impressing a sophisticated traveller. It captures the “New Bangkok”—a city that respects its smoky, spicy roots while reaching unapologetically for the stars.

Verdict: Book a terrace table for 5:45 PM. You want to be there when the sun dips below the river, and the charcoal starts to glow.

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