This is Bangkok's best German restaurant, opened in 1980 by Otto Duffner and nowadays an institution. Large platesful of traditional German fare are served up in a spacious main dining room, where pictures of Otto with celebrity guests decorate the walls. The new dining area is a little more intimate and cozy but perhaps best of all is the attached bakery, where you can buy delicious bread, cakes and rolls.

The steak tartare and rabbit dishes are staples here and always good, among a menu of French cuisine with Thai influences, such as ginger and lemongrass. Much of the menu changes every four months­ the latest dishes are posted on their website. The setting is peaceful, in an old house with a large, tree-filled yard on a quiet, dead-end soi street.

This classy French restaurant on the top floor of The Oriental Hotel is a Bangkok institution. With views of the Chao Phraya River you can savor excellently prepared French cuisine and pay handsomely for it. But you won't complain because it's worth every baht. Many of the ingredients are imported from France and there's an extensive wine list. Visiting French chefs often take up short-term residence here, presenting their specialties, but the menu always includes the restaurant's classic dishes. It might seem odd to come to Bangkok for a memorable French dinner, but it can be done here. Men must wear a jacket and tie.

The osso bucco is outstanding here, in what is for many Bangkok's best Italian restaurant. There's an emphasis on northern Italian cuisine but they also cook up other favorites plus a healthy number of pasta dishes and pizzas. The setting is classy, with tables cozily placed and attentive but unobtrusive staff. Dinner can be on the expensive side, but the lunch specials are a real bargain. The wine list, served by the glass, carafe or bottle, is extensive too.