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Parallel to the bustling yet increasingly ritzy Thonglor and Ekkamai neighborhoods is the slightly more subtle Sukhumvit Soi 49. This Bangkok street, accessible by the Phrom Phong or Thonglor BTS, is fitted with everything urban Bangkokians have come to adore and expect, from high end shopping to streetside cuisine. And best of all, it's managed to remain relatively clear of the many chain restaurants and retail venues that have taken over the city's other hot neighborhoods.

Soi 49 a favorite among expats, including quite a few Japanese, evident by the area’s many condominium developments and Japanese eateries. But like many a Sukhumvit soi, this isn’t just a single road that cuts straight on through from the main Sukhumvit Road. There are sub-sois and side streets, some more challenging to find then others, all with their own unique venues and charms.

We’ve put together the above map to highlight some of our top picks for the neighborhood, though keep in mind there are dozens of other greats worth checking out as you stroll.

1. Lard Naa guy

This “order what you want” street-side stall serves up some of the best (and local residents will vouch for this) Thai noodle dishes going, be it the thick noodles in gravy (Lard Naa) or the stir-fried variety (Phad Si Eew).

2. Dulio’s

Dulio’s is an Italian eatery with cozy indoor and outdoor ambience that’s ideal for a chilled night out. Head there some spicy salami wood-fired pizza, scrumptious desserts and their house Shiraz. Stay on after 10pm (happy hour) as you down your drinks, smoke some sheesha and bob your heads to reggae music.

17 Sukhumvit Soi 49. +66 (0)2 258 7930

3. Il Tartufo

At Chef Flavio Manzoni’s Italian fusion eatery, expect (as the name rightfully suggests) some serious truffle action -- black truffles in rocket salad or seafood in white truffle sauce. Couple your mushrooms with a glass or two of the chef’s favorite vinos.

64 Sukhumvit Soi 51, +66 (0)2 259 3569.

4. La Bottega di Luca (Terrace 49)

Chef Luca’s classy indoor and outdoor eatery houses a menu which is a culmination of all of Italy’s traditional regional dishes. Though on the pricier side, the unique dishes and freshness of ingredients won’t disappoint. They also have a deli where you can buy all your fresh produce to take home.

Terrace 49, Tel: +66 (0)2 204 1731

5. L’Avenue

Don’t let the fact this restaurant is in a private hospital fool you. L’Avenue, Samitivej Hostpial’s newest eatery, is an upscale joint featuring Thai, Asian and international eats. And of course, keeping  in line with its environment, most of the dishes are healthy.

 
133 Samitivej Hospital, Sukhumvit soi 49. Tel: +66 (0)2 712 8121

6. Ka-nom Fashion Bakery

Walk past and you won’t be able to resist as the smell of freshly baked egg tarts, butter rolls, breads, pies and cakes that will draw you straight in. Must tries are the famous patangko (fried dough) dipped in condensed milk. Dessert aside, they also cough up some great simple Thai dishes like green curry fried rice.

122 Sukhumvit Soi 49 (Soi Klang) Tel: +66 (0)2 391 2428

7. After You

Ok so you’re going to have to go to the edge of Thonglor for this one, though technically it’s still in the Sukhumvit 49 neighborhood. No matter what time of the day and what day of the week, After You is always packed with Bangkok’s sweet-toothed Japanese-dessert lovers looking for their weekly dosage of honey toast and chocolate fondue. If it’s high in sugar and fats and tastes like heaven, they’ve got it.

J Avenue, Thonglor Soi 13 +66 (0)2 712 9266

8. Wine O’Clock

Don’t let the silly name fold you. This mostly Mediterranean eatery in an old European style house offers a decent wine room and impressive seafood dishes.  

5/1 Sukhumvit Soi 49. +66 (0)2 662 7895

9. Spring 'n Summer

One of the most happening places within the Soi 49 vicinity is this large up-scale restaurant and bar. As Spring coughs up refreshingly unique fusion dishes, Summer warms you up with their selection of desserts and coffees. Winter, their outdoor lawn bar, is lined with comfy beanbags and is always packed on the weekends. Reservations are highly recommended.

199 Sukhumvit Soi 49 (Soi Promsri), +66 (0)2 392 2747/8

10. Noriko

This high-end brand offers women colorful picks of everything from tops and tees to flowing skirts and comfy gauchos. They also have a selection of flats, heels and bags.

4/1 Soi Sukhumvit 49 Sukhumvit Rd. Tel +66 (0)2 258 7963

11. The 49 Terrace

This three-storey complex has got a everything from a Starbucks to high-end dining and shopping outlets. These include Kin & Co. Fine Paper, Scrap It, luxury ladies fashion shop Celeb and Pasathan, which is stocked with antique reproductions from around the region.

49 Sukhumvit soi 49. Tel: +66 (0)2 260 2258

12. Sop Moei Arts

Part of the greater Sop Moei Arts non-profit organization, which has been working with the Pwo Karen in Sop Moei district of Mae Hong Son for over 30 years, this small Bangkok outlet sells the products of these income-generating initiatives such as textile weaving and basket making. They recently started selling  gorgeous Studio Naenna products as well.

8 Room 104, Sukhumvit Soi 49, Tel: +66 (0)2 714 7269

13. Leyana Spa

This serene and secluded spa offers everything from an extensive massage menu to facial treatments and beautification treatments like body scrubs and wraps. Got time? We love their half/full day rejuvenating spa package, which works your entire body from head to toe.

33 Sukumvit Soi 49 (Soi Torsak) +66 (0)2 874 4461

14. Akko Art Gallery

Akko is a small but worthy Japanese art gallery that features an admirable collection of original paintings by Thai, Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese and other international artists.  They also do custom framing, in addition to the usual art sales.

919/1 Sukhumvit Road, Between Soi 49 and 51, Opposite the Rex Hotel. Tel: +66 (0)2 259 1436

15. Dental Hospital

The Dental Hospital is one of the city’s top dental facilities, known for its high level of professionalism and services. Featuring top-notch English-speaking dentists, they offer everything from basic teeth cleaning to root canals.

88/88 Sukhumvit 49, Sukhumvit Road. Tel: +66 (0)2 260 5000

16. The Picture Gallery

The Pikture Gallery is a quality two-floor facility that features both local and international artists, including fine art photography, painings, mixed media and traditional Thai paintings.

47/1 Sukumvit Soi 49. Tel: +66(0)2 662 8359

17. Big Knit Cafe

At Big Knit Café, knitting and crocheting are no longer the province of rocker-bound housewives. Crafty young professionals looking to unwind by creating handicrafts are flocking to this venue to learn how to knit. The owner offers knitters a trendy hobby haven where they can hang out, have a cup of coffee and enjoy a piece of cake while getting knitting tips from local crafters. Don't know the difference between a purl stitch and a cast on? Buy a kit and Big Knit's skillful staff will help you get started at no extra charge.

88 The Natural Park Building, Sukhumvit Soi 49