Eat Innovative Indian at Gaggan

Where to? Bangkok, Thailand

Why you’ll love it: There’s a reason Gaggan has been voted Asia’s best restaurant two years in a row. From gorgeous colonial-chic digs, chef Gaggan Anand injects contemporary techniques and molecular innovation into traditional Indian dishes. But this is Indian cuisine like you’ve never seen before.

In the restaurant’s 16-course “Best of Gaggan” experience (THB3,500; HK$768), every bite is a new adventure in texture, aroma, flavor and even some unexpected flair — picture smoking cocktails and dishes that crackle and pop. The two-hour dinner makes for a dramatic and telling introduction to Anand’s abilities, and the restaurant accommodates vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions.

Unlike a lot of other molecular restaurants, Gaggan is not the least bit pretentious. Flamboyant and friendly staff members keep your wine topped up with healthy pours, and may even sneak you a few extra bites along the way.

Fun fact: Anand interned at Spain’s famous El Bulli restaurant, and has cooked for former US president Bill Clinton.

Get there: Fly to Bangkok. Make a reservation at Gaggan (68/1 Soi Langsuan Ploenchit Road Lumpini, Bangkok, (+66) 2652-1700).

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