Aji （庵寺） – Premier Japanese Restaurant in Bangkok Ekkamai
A Comprehensive Dining Guide to Bangkok’s Acclaimed Japanese Culinary Destination
Restaurant Overview
Located on the 3rd floor of Ekkamai Big C, Aji （庵寺） stands as one of Bangkok’s most distinguished Japanese restaurants, earning acclaim from both Japanese expatriates and Thai food enthusiasts alike. This established washoku （traditional Japanese cuisine） restaurant has been serving authentic Japanese flavors year-round, making it an essential destination for discerning diners seeking genuine Japanese culinary experiences in Thailand’s capital.
With over 400 menu items and a spacious 207-seat capacity featuring both private and semi-private dining rooms, Aji caters to various dining occasions from intimate meals to large corporate gatherings and celebrations.
Signature Clay Pot Rice Collection
Aji’s renowned clay pot rice dishes represent the pinnacle of the restaurant’s culinary offerings. Each rice bowl is meticulously prepared using the restaurant’s signature dashi （Japanese soup stock） and cooked slowly in traditional clay pots to achieve perfect texture and flavor absorption.
Clay Pot Rice Menu
| Clay Pot Rice Variety | Price （THB） | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Unagi （Eel） Clay Pot Rice | 340 | Most affordable option featuring tender grilled eel |
| Crab Clay Pot Rice | 480 | Popular choice with rich crab flavor infused throughout |
| Seafood Mixed Clay Pot Rice | 520 | Premium selection with shrimp, squid, and scallop |
| Foie Gras Clay Pot Rice | 580 | Luxury option representing culinary excellence |
The preparation process involves careful layering of ingredients and precise timing to ensure each grain of rice absorbs the maximum flavor while maintaining its individual texture. The result is a harmonious blend of tastes that exemplifies Japanese culinary philosophy.
Fresh Tuna Promotion
Currently, Aji is featuring a special promotion on premium fresh bluefin tuna at exceptional value prices. This limited-time offering allows diners to experience the distinct characteristics of different tuna cuts, including:
- O-toro （大トロ） – The most prized fatty belly portion with rich, buttery texture
- Chu-toro （中トロ） – Medium fatty portion offering balanced flavor and texture
- Akami （赤身） – Lean red meat with clean, pure tuna flavor
The tuna is sourced directly from Japan and represents the restaurant’s commitment to providing authentic sashimi-grade seafood that meets the highest Japanese standards.
Seasonal Specialties
Spring Firefly Squid Course
Limited-Time Firefly Squid Course Set – 1,480 THB （serves 4 people）
This exclusive seasonal offering celebrates Japan’s spring delicacy through multiple preparation methods:
- Firefly squid marinated in traditional sake brine （沖漬け）
- Fresh sashimi preparation
- Nigiri sushi presentation
- Hot pot shabu-shabu style
- Teppanyaki grilled preparation
This comprehensive course allows diners to experience the versatility and delicate flavor of this prized seasonal ingredient.
Restaurant Information & Access
Location & Contact Details
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 3rd Floor, Ekkamai Big C Shopping Center, Bangkok |
| Operating Hours | Lunch: 11:00-14:00 | Dinner: 17:00-22:00 |
| Holiday Schedule | Open year-round （no regular holidays） |
| Telephone | 02-714-8368 |
| Takeout Service | Available for most menu items |
| Parking | Available within Big C shopping center |
| Public Transport | Walking distance from BTS Ekkamai Station |
Customer Reviews & Ratings
Aji maintains consistently high ratings across multiple review platforms, reflecting its reputation for quality and service:
- Google Reviews: 4.1/5 stars
- Tabelog: 3.53/5 points
- Banmeshi: 4.5/5 points
Customer Feedback Highlights
Positive Reviews:
- Exceptional freshness of seafood and sashimi-grade fish
- Extensive menu with authentic izakaya-style offerings
- Comfortable atmosphere suitable for various occasions
- Attentive and professional service staff
- Reasonable pricing for the quality provided
Areas for Consideration:
- Weekend crowds may result in longer waiting times
- Food preparation may take additional time during peak hours
- Language barrier possible with some staff members
Dining Recommendations
- Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for weekend dining and private room bookings
- Peak Hours: Plan extra time during weekends and dinner hours
- Group Dining: Excellent facilities for corporate entertainment and celebrations
- Solo Dining: All-you-can-drink options available for individual guests
Additional Services & Features
Beyond its culinary offerings, Aji provides comprehensive dining services:
- Private Dining Rooms: Various sizes available for business meetings and special occasions
- Banquet Services: Customized course menus for large groups and corporate events
- Japanese Language Menu: Available for authentic dining experience
- Credit Card Acceptance: Major credit cards accepted
- LINE Ordering System: Japanese-language ordering available through LINE application
Sister Restaurant – Chicken Kay
Operating under the same management, Chicken Kay （チキンケイ） specializes in premium chicken cuisine, particularly the renowned Khao Man Gai （Thai-style chicken rice）. Located within the same complex, this sister establishment maintains the same standards of quality and service while focusing on poultry-based dishes.
With a Google rating of 4.6 stars from 51 reviews, Chicken Kay has established itself as a hidden gem for chicken enthusiasts, offering both traditional Thai preparations and Japanese-influenced chicken dishes.
Conclusion
Aji （庵寺） represents the pinnacle of Japanese dining in Bangkok’s Ekkamai district, offering an authentic washoku experience that satisfies both Japanese expatriates seeking familiar flavors and Thai diners exploring genuine Japanese cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, traditional preparation methods, and comprehensive service makes it an ideal choice for various dining occasions, from casual lunches to important business entertaining.
The combination of signature clay pot rice dishes, premium sashimi offerings, seasonal specialties, and professional service creates a dining experience that truly embodies the essence of Japanese hospitality and culinary excellence in the heart of Bangkok.