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Raan Jay Fai

Bangkok

The world’s only 50 Best-listed street food

On the Pass

Supinya ‘Jay Fai’ Junsuta

Hawking with a twist: Located on Maha Chai Road, Raan Jay Fai has become a culinary institution in Bangkok. The seven-table restaurant (and takeaway) may have had humble beginnings as a hawker stall (and to this day keeps its hyper-casual Formica table format), but it has since become an unmissable destination for food lovers. Over the years, one constant has been the chef: legendary Supinya ‘Jay Fai’ Junsuta, who can still be found in the kitchen wearing her trademark heat-protective goggles.

What should I order? On the menu you’ll find Thai street food like you’ve never seen before. Don’t miss the pad kee mao talay – seafood with drunken noodles which are dry-fried and extra crispy – or the one which everyone comes to try: khai jiao poo, Jay Fai’s famous interpretation of a crab omelette which contains a mega 600g of the best-quality fresh white crab meat. While the price might be higher than its hawker contemporaries, Raan Jay Fai’s luxury ingredients promise an unforgettable culinary experience on the streets of Bangkok.

A family affair: Septuagenarian and chef-proprietor Junsuta has lived by the same circadian rhythm for the past 40 years. Having opened the restaurant in the early 1980s, she has worked six days a week at the same wok, and now stands side-by-side with her daughter, Yuwandee.

Icon for the ages: Junsuta has become a celebrity in the world of gastronomy. Hailed for her arduous labour, consistency, brilliant technique, use of top-quality produce and commitment to Thai culinary excellence, she was recognised with the Icon Award at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2021.

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