Bangkok, right? It’s that incredible city where ancient history and modern luxury just seamlessly blend together. Nothing captures that feeling better than Wat Arun, the stunning Temple of Dawn, with its majestic spires and beautiful riverside charm. For everyone here—travelers and locals alike—having a meal while soaking up that panoramic Wat Arun view is an experience you just don’t forget. From sleek rooftop bars to perfect little spots right on the river, here is your essential guide to the top 10 Wat Arun view restaurants. And we’re kicking things off with a real standout.
1. Wat Arun view restaurant by SALA
Right at the very heart of Bangkok’s riverside dining scene, Sala Rattanakosin Restaurant stands out as the premier spot for both incredible food and those iconic views. Tucked right along the Chao Phraya River, this restaurant gives you an absolutely unobstructed panorama of Wat Arun. It is especially breathtaking at sunset when the temple’s spires truly shimmer in golden light.
Sala Rattanakosin pairs modern Thai cooking with elegant international dishes. You can enjoy super fresh seafood, great grilled meats, and intensely flavorful Thai curries. All of this while you’re sitting in a stylish, modern interior that opens right onto the river. The outdoor terrace is perfect for a romantic dinner or just evening drinks, making it the top pick for anyone seeking a classic Wat Arun view restaurant by SALA.
2. The Deck by Arun Residence
The Deck by Arun Residence has been a favorite for ages. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a more intimate riverside experience. Located literally just across from Wat Arun, the restaurant gives you direct views of the temple’s main spire (prang) and the gentle flow of the Chao Phraya River.
The Deck specializes in Thai cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood and classic dishes like green curry, pad Thai, and tom yum soup. Its ambiance is casual but elegant. This makes it ideal for families and couples alike. If you can get a seat on the rooftop, it gives you an immersive view of Wat Arun, especially once the temple is beautifully lit up at night.
3. Sala Arun Bangkok – Rooftop Dining
Although it’s the sister property to Sala Rattanakosin, Sala Arun Bangkok offers a stunning riverside dining experience that is just as memorable. You can enjoy modern Thai and Western dishes on a rooftop terrace that allows for a full view of Wat Arun’s central spire.
They serve great signature cocktails and have a selection of premium wines to go with the flavorful food. It’s super popular with photographers and anyone trying to capture that perfect sunset silhouette of the temple.
4. Supanniga Eating Room by the River
Supanniga Eating Room by the River brings you a taste of traditional Thai hospitality with a modern twist. Its spot on the river provides a cozy, intimate dining space with beautiful views of Wat Arun.
This restaurant is famous for its authentic Thai recipes inspired by old family traditions, like crab curry with coconut milk and crispy pork belly. While it’s not right at the river’s edge, its slightly elevated seating ensures you catch those glimpses of the iconic temple. It’s definitely a worthy addition to the top Wat Arun view restaurants.
5. Arun Residence Dining
At Arun Residence Dining, the focus is on blending luxury with cultural immersion. Located in a boutique riverside hotel, the restaurant’s terrace overlooks Wat Arun with almost no obstructions.
You can indulge in classic Thai dishes, fine wines, and even afternoon tea while you admire the temple’s reflection on the river. Its elegant, colonial-inspired décor adds a lot of charm, making it perfect for a relaxed but sophisticated meal.
6. Peachy Cafe & Rooftop
Peachy Cafe & Rooftop offers a modern, very Instagram-friendly experience with Wat Arun as your gorgeous backdrop. The open-air rooftop lets you enjoy casual food, like light salads, pasta, and Thai fusion cuisine, while you soak in the temple’s iconic silhouette.
This spot is especially popular right at sunset. It offers a combination of casual elegance and highly photogenic scenery. Whether you’re there for morning coffee or evening cocktails, Peachy Cafe is a memorable riverside spot.
7. The Riverfront Terrace at Riva Surya
Riva Surya’s Riverfront Terrace offers a premium dining experience with sweeping views of the Chao Phraya River and Wat Arun. Located in a boutique hotel, the terrace is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, serving fresh Thai and international cuisine.
The relaxed atmosphere lets you watch the boats glide along the river while you enjoy dishes like grilled river prawns. The totally unobstructed view of Wat Arun guarantees a scenic meal any time of the day.
8. Eat Sight Story
Eat Sight Story combines excellent riverside dining with a great cultural ambiance. The restaurant has a slightly elevated vantage point, which is perfect for photographing Wat Arun across the river.
The menu includes both Thai classics and Western-inspired dishes, focusing on fresh ingredients and traditional flavors. It’s a great option for families or groups who want that riverside dining experience without the huge price tag of some rooftop restaurants.
9. The Deck Sathorn (Riverside Extension)
Why you’ll love it: A unique, dramatic visual angle.
While it’s not right next to Wat Arun, The Deck Sathorn earns a spot for its unique riverside angle. The restaurant gives you a clear view of Wat Arun across the river from a slightly different perspective. This creates a dramatic visual effect, especially as twilight hits.
Menu highlights include grilled seafood and innovative Thai dishes. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a top choice for a casual dinner with an iconic backdrop.
10. The Blue Elephant Riverside
The Blue Elephant Riverside is part of Bangkok’s world-famous Thai fine-dining group. Situated along the river, the restaurant offers glimpses of Wat Arun while providing a truly elegant, luxurious environment.
You can enjoy royal Thai cuisine, including signature curries and traditional desserts, prepared by expert chefs. While the view is somewhat framed by riverside structures, the combination of exquisite cuisine, beautiful ambiance, and river proximity makes it a worthy finale on our list.
Choosing Your Perfect View
Bangkok’s Wat Arun view restaurants cater to everyone. From the luxurious terrace of Sala Rattanakosin to casual rooftop cafés, every spot offers a unique look at the Temple of Dawn. If having a direct, unobstructed view is your top priority, riverside terraces like Wat Arun view restaurant by SALA or The Deck by Arun Residence are your best bet. If you want authentic Thai flavors in a more intimate spot, check out Supanniga Eating Room.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a sunset cocktail, or just looking for a memorable meal with an iconic backdrop, these top 10 Wat Arun view restaurants deliver unforgettable dining experiences.
Dining with a view of Wat Arun is so much more than just a meal—it’s a piece of cultural immersion and a memorable highlight of any Bangkok trip. For the ultimate experience, Sala Rattanakosin Restaurant remains the best choice. It offers that perfect blend of fine dining, riverfront elegance, and an unbeatable view of the Temple of Dawn. Which temple view will you book first?