While we were staying at the Royal Orchid Sheraton in Bangkok, we were able to take advantage of a free water taxi to IconSiam Mall. The mall was just across the river from our hotel, so the water taxi provided us quick, convenient access. In fact, the taxi docked right at our hotel. We didn’t know what Pang Cha was at the time, but we would soon find out.
My wife and I explored the IconSiam Mall, enjoying a couple of meals and other treats. But the most memorable treat at the mall was the Pang Cha. While walking through the maze of restaurants, we noticed a Michelin sign. We had experienced a couple of other Michelin rated restaurants during our trip to Bangkok, but were amazed to learn that the Michelin star was for dessert!
The dessert? Pang Cha. The term Pang Cha means “bread tea.” It is a popular take on a dessert known as Bingsu, which is a shaved ice dessert made popular in Korea. The Thai version includes bread soaked in Thai tea and mixed in with shaved ice, milk, sweetened condensed milk, whip cream and other toppings. The dessert has a lot going on, but it was an interesting experience. It was a bit pricey (the Michelin star certainly contributes to that). You might call it the Rolls Royce of Bingsu.
The service at Pang Cha was another highlight of our experience. When we arrived, there was a very long line. I waited in line while my wife watched for a small table to open up. By the time our dessert was ordered and ready, we had a table to sit and enjoy our dessert. It was interesting. My wife wasn’t a huge fan, but I thought it was a great take on Thai Tea. I particularly liked the popping bubbles that they used as a topping. The dessert is cold, sweet and interesting.
For the money, I would say that the Pang Cha would be a rare treat. But it was definitely worth trying. If you find yourself in Thailand, there are a couple of shops that sell the Pang Cha style Bingsu. The Michelin star-rated Pang Cha at Iconsiam Mall was amazing. Pricey? Yes. Regrets? No. You have to try it once.
Read more about our adventures in Southeast Asia!