Last updated on April 8th, 2024 at 12:13 pm
Calling all spice enthusiasts and lovers of authentic Thai cuisine! Out Phed Mark restaurant review stands as a culinary paradise that demands a spot on your must-visit list. Situated in the heart of Bangkok, this acclaimed restaurant is the brainchild of the renowned food vlogger, Mark Wiens. With a fiery passion for spicy Thai food, Mark Wiens has meticulously curated a menu that not only tantalizes taste buds but also showcases the vibrant flavors embedded in Thailand’s rich culinary heritage.
Phed Mark Review
Thailand’s Most Famous Spicy Dish is Pad Kra Pao
While many recognize Pad Thai as Thailand’s national dish, the true star of Thai cuisine is Pad Kra Pao (Holy Basil Stir Fry), ranking as the most popular and spicy Thai delight. At Phed Mark, Pad Kra Pao takes center stage with a unique twist, boasting an abundance of fiery chili flavors. The intense heat from the chilies, coupled with the aromatic essence of holy basil, elevates this dish to an unforgettable culinary experience. For locals, Pad Kra Pao is the default choice when uncertainty strikes, offering a go-to answer for a satisfying meal. Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your experience – pair it with the must-try fried egg (kai dao).
Crafting Pad Kra Pao at home is a delightfully simple process. Begin by grinding chilis and garlic in a mortar, then stir-fry your protein of choice—beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, or a vegan alternative—until it achieves a golden brown hue. Introduce a splash of oil to the wok, followed by the blended chili and garlic mixture. Toss in a harmonious blend of fish sauce and sugar, and conclude the culinary symphony with the addition of fragrant holy basil until it gently wilts. The final touch? Serve this aromatic creation alongside a crispy fried egg and a side of Thai Jasmine Rice, creating the perfect recipe for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Who is Mark Wiens
Mark, a humble American now residing in Thailand, has cultivated a profound passion for food, especially Spicy Thai cuisine. As a renowned Food and Travel YouTuber/Blogger, he has amassed an impressive following, boasting over 9 million subscribers on YouTube and over 1.5 million followers on Instagram. Mark Wiens’ culinary venture, Phed Mark Restaurant, is situated in the heart of Bangkok, Thailand.
While I’m not a subscriber to Mark’s YouTube channel or a follower on other platforms, I’ve come across his videos and was naturally intrigued to experience Phed Mark’s offerings. Despite the restaurant consistently drawing a crowd, it maintained a comfortable atmosphere without being overly crowded. As a prominent YouTuber, the restaurant’s appeal lies in its unique edge—delivering exceptionally spicy dishes that set its brand apart in the culinary landscape.
The Menu
Phed Mark takes culinary focus to the next level by specializing exclusively in one dish—Pad Kra Pao. Embracing simplicity, the menu revolves around choosing your preferred protein and spice level. The philosophy echoes the trend of single-dish restaurants gaining prominence, excelling in perfecting a singular offering. Drawing a parallel, the famous American establishment In & Out also stands out for its dedication to excellence through a streamlined menu.
The Food
What Makes This Pad Kra Pao Special?
Phed Mark elevates the Pad Kra Pao experience with distinctive touches. Firstly, the traditional egg is replaced with a crispy fried duck egg, imparting a richer texture due to its higher fat and protein content. Secondly, the menu offers Wagyu as a protein option, adding a premium choice to the culinary journey. While my personal favorite, shrimp, is not available here, the options showcase a commitment to diverse palates.
The third highlight is the spicy factor, evident in the generous presence of large chilis in the dish. For those seeking an extra kick, the menu features the beloved Prik Nam Pla condiment—chilis in fish sauce. And for the daring spice enthusiasts, Phed Mark caters to extreme tastes with a Level 5 Very Spicy option, presenting a challenge for those willing to push their spicy boundaries.
How Did the Food Taste?
Arriving at Phed Mark around 3 pm with a voracious appetite after a light breakfast, I, a self-proclaimed spicy food enthusiast familiar with local Issan Thai dishes, decided to put my taste buds to the test. Opting for the Wagyu Level 4 Medium Signature, I anticipated a satisfying heat. My friend, seeking a milder experience, went for the Beef Level 3 Less Spicy. The crispy duck egg proved to be a delightful addition, complementing the dish seamlessly. The Wagyu, a lean and flavorful cut, added to the overall enjoyment of the Pad Kra Pao.
Despite our love for spicy cuisine, both of us found ourselves unable to conquer the entire dish. Surprisingly, it wasn’t solely due to the spiciness, as the heat level was manageable. Instead, the feeling of fullness played a significant role. Phed Mark’s Pad Kra Pao, while fiery and flavorful, left us savoring the experience with contented, albeit not empty, plates.
Indeed, your observations align with existing research findings. Studies reveal that capsaicin, the compound found in chili peppers, can influence the hypothalamus, a key area of the brain regulating hunger and fullness. It seems that the spicy element in chilies may have contributed to the sensation of fullness you experienced. Additionally, intriguingly, research suggests that peppers, through capsaicin, may stimulate the body to burn more calories, adding another layer to the complex relationship between spicy foods and metabolism.
Phed Mark Restaurant Location and Hours
Phed Mark offers a convenient location just outside the Ekkamai BTS (Sky Train) Station on the Sukhumvit Line in Bangkok. Operating hours are from 10 am to 7:30 pm, providing an accessible window for visitors to savor the culinary delights offered at this well-placed establishment.
My Phed Mark Restaurant Review
Undoubtedly, Phed Mark stands out as a haven for spice enthusiasts and Thai cuisine aficionados. With a menu crafted by the renowned Mark Wiens and an inviting ambiance, the restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary journey celebrating the depth of Thailand’s food culture. The Spicy Levels, a signature feature, ensure a satisfying palate and an enriched understanding of the art of spicy Thai food.
However, it’s worth noting that the restaurant exclusively accepts cash payments, which might be a consideration for patrons. Despite this, the overall experience leaves a positive impression, making Phed Mark a definite choice for future orders—perhaps exploring the convenience of placing orders through Grabfood with the added benefit of card payments.
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