I was in Bangkok for work, staying at the part of Sukhumvit which has a bit of a red light reputation, let’s say. Coincidentally also, convenient for a Muslim like me, as it’s also full of halal Middle Eastern joints. (hmm)
I also entirely forgot that their mourning period is over, so it took a second before I realized why the city felt more lively than the last time I was there.
So you’ll have to forgive me for not realizing this guy was legit at first. But it turns out it’s absolutely is legit. I’m really hilariously noobish when it comes to Bangkok, despite having to be here often for work.
Cabbages & Condoms is actually part of this NGO called the Population and Community Development Association, and in fact you can find the restaurant at the ground floor of their building. Their work is related to family planning and sexual education, and it was started by a really popular Thai senator, Mechai Viravaidya. How popular and how effective has he been? ‘Mechai’ is now slang for ‘condom’.
The food is decent, and I decided to go upon recommendation of a colleague. Besides, all proceeds get ploughed back into their NGO. The decor is very on-brand, and kitschy but deliberate. They know they’re being cheeky. They must do with a motto like, “our food won’t make you pregnant”. Besides, you get to learn more about family planning around the world. They serve mostly Thai food, adjusted a bit for non-Thais so it’s not immediately fiery.
If you walk along Sukhumvit Road, past this Korean square (it’s just an open-air mall with Korean brands and shops), there’ll be a guy with this sign next to the 7-11. Turn into that road, and just keep going.
it’s quite picturesque with nice ambience, but i did say they’re committed to a theme.
I was there by myself so I didn’t manage to order a lot to sample. but it was good, and affordable, I think. I got the chef’s special, duck curry with lychee, and the red and white rice. I think the red is unpolished hill rice.
absolutely no surprise what came with my bill.
it’s generally not too busy, and you don’t need reservations. you get the idea that it entertains more of a novelty-seeking crowd, though I’d say the food is pretty decent. Good for a memorable night’s out anyway.
Cabbages and Condoms
Sukhumvit 12 Alley,
Khwaeng Khlong Toei,
Khet Khlong Toei,
Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110, Thailand
hipsterbabas 