Indigo

Indigo has been a fixture of Convent Road for years, a traditional French bistro and bar in a converted house just off Silom. There is a terrace outside and an air-conditioned dining room inside, its walls covered in posters, and it has long been a regular stop for Bangkok's French community.

The menu sticks to homestyle bistro cooking. The côte de boeuf is the headline order, a big steak carved at the table and listed for two though it stretches further. Steak tartare with fries, a cheese soufflé and a duck liver tartine are dependable choices, and the braver can go for tête de veau. Lobster bisque, Parma ham with melon and milk-fed veal with morel sauce have also featured.

It suits a relaxed business lunch or an easy dinner with friends, and keeps long all-day hours, from 11.30am to 11pm every day. Dress is smart casual, and booking ahead is wise for evenings and for the côte de boeuf.