Italian Proudfa

 Possibly the best lamb chops in town.

Bangkokians like to indulge little games of one-upmanship when it comes to discovering/knowing about eateries that offer the biggest bang for the buck (I'm talking about flavour and quality rather than spice and heat).

Coming from New Zealand - one of the most expensive dining countries in the world - mostly everything to me, food-wise, is reasonably priced and great value in the capital.

There's something for everyone and good eats can cost as little as 20 baht (for a bowl of noodles) or as much as 3,000+ baht for US prime rib at a swanky steak house.

Mussels in arrabbiata sauce  

So when I come across a restaurant that serves amazing food at very affordable prices I have to share the love - it's a civic duty.

Take a bow Khun Toh, who manages Italian Proudfa, a cosy and cool tratorria-styled eatery that serves superb Italian food with a Thai twist.

We enjoyed mussels arrabbiata and a squid and prawn crammed black spaghetti (both priced around 220 baht); crab salad (220 baht); a plate of wonderfully cooked pepper lamb chops (550 baht) and a foie gras salad (550 baht). The menu features more pasta, fish, seafood and meat dishes.

The host with the most.

The orders - especially the ones with a bit of heat and kick - were sensational. They were on par, or a cut above similar dishes served in upmarket Italian restaurants in the Sukhumvit and Silom areas.

Khun Toh is also a fantastic host who welcomes you like a member of the family. He may well be the most charismatic, charming and friendly maitre d in Thailand.

Do yourself a favour and make the effort to visit Italian Proudfa. In light traffic it's only 10-15 minutes drive up from Ekamai on Sriwara Road.

Italian Proudfa Facebook

Italian Proudfa location map and contact details