The Commons - An International Artisan's Village in the Heart of Bangkok

bkkshadow (70)in #food • 8 years ago (edited)

One of the newest additions to the trendy Thong Lor area of Bangkok is the Artisan's village "The Commons". Combining an open-plan design and many small artisan cafe's, stalls, and gardens, the aim is to create a village feel.

THE COMMONS

"The Commons is a gathering ground for specialized, quality producers who take pride in what they do and do it with utmost care.We hope to promote wholesome living and a true sense of community.Our intention is to build first a community, then a mall."

Although spread out over a layered 4 floors, most of the action takes place on the ground floor which is where the variety of food and beverage items can be found. It's a good mix providing a little bit of something for everyone.

From the finest roasts to seafood, baked goods and craft beer. Here is a sample of just a few of the shops and their goods. We sampled some of them today., and everything I saw or tried was of the absolute highest quality. Be prepared to pay a little more, but it's worth it.

Barrio Bonito

We ate lunch here today and not only the food, but the hospitality was top-class. Operated by French and Mexican couple Julian and Mariana, Barrio Bonito is known to serve authentic Mexican cuisine such as burritos, enchiladas, and tortillas. Bangkok was once a wasteland for Mexican food, but now there are several fine offerings to choose from, including this one.

Maison Jean-Phillipe

As Thailand was never colonized, they never really figured out how to make bread. Most of what we get locally is very sweet, and not particularly good. However, Maison Jean-Phillipe is one of the few artisanal bread bakeries in Bangkok. They also pride themselves on using only organic ingredients in their products. I took a loaf of the dark rye bread home, and I am eagerly looking forward to eating them for lunch tomorrow.

Twist Juices

I've known Michael, the proprietor of Twist Juices for almost 1o years, so i was excited to see his new booth in the commons. He is uncompromising in his approach and methods to making only the finest cold pressed juices and smoothies. We drank a Berry Passion Smoothie at the Commons and took home several bottles of cold-pressed for the morning. It's so refreshingly good that you feel yourself actually getting healthier while you are drinking

Soul Food

Soul Food serves up popular regional Thai dishes, which was opened by a long-term expat staying in Thailand. It serves up all your favourite Thai Fodder to go at reasonable prices. I didn't get to try it today, but its on my list for next visit.

Egg My God

Eggs, eggs, eggs. Anything and everything made with eggs. A variety of different salads, pastas and even a choice of eggy rice and desserts.

East Bound

I absolutely love Banh Mi, and is one of my favourite things when I visit Vietnam. This great dish made from a Vietnamese baguette stuffed with pork, pickles, and other goodness.

The Beer Cap TBC

Unfortunately, today was a Buddhist holiday so we were unable to sample any of the fine selections of craft beers on offer. They also have a decent wine selection.

The Lobster Lab

Another place that is on my hit list for next time. Not only do they offer a selection of oysters from around the world, they also make some great looking lobster rolls.

Live Music

As you walk around the floors, there are several groups performing live music for your enjoyment.

I am glad that somebody realized that Bangkok doesn't need just another mall. The Commons provides a venue for proud craftsmen to present their goods in a comfortable environment. So far it seems to be a great success, and let's hope it provides inspiration for others to follow.