A Seat in the Garden: A Lush Dining Escape in Ratchapruek

What makes a restaurant memorable? The food, certainly, but also the setting. Just across the river in Ratchapruek lies Mata Garden, a leafy oasis offering a welcome change from the commotion of Bangkok. Because, sometimes, that is all we really want from a meal: somewhere relaxing to nestle in over good food and a few hours without having to rush off anywhere. 

Space: Mata Garden balances colour and greenery across its lush indoor and outdoor spaces. The interiors are vibrant and floral, with Indian-inspired accents, and large windows overlooking the garden area. On weekends, House performers Gurmeet Ji and King Waari bring live music to the space, adding to the garden’s radiance. Adjoining the main dining hall, private rooms are also available for gatherings of different sizes. Outside, guests can enjoy their meal by the water from the deck or in gazebo-style seating with plenty of fresh air and foliage.

Crowd: This dining location is truly made for bringing people together. Families and friends can enjoy a meal together indoors or amidst nature, with private rooms offering a more intimate setting for modest functions. For large celebrations, the space can accommodate up to 300 guests, with ample room for weddings, corporate events, seminars, and parties.

The beverage selection at Mata Garden covers everything from morning pick-me-ups to afternoon refreshers and spirited mixes for nightfall. As we arrived just after noon, we simply had to sip on the Iced cappuccino (THB 75), which was well balanced and energising. Known for its lineup of mojitos, our curiosity led us to try the classic Mata garden mojito mocktail (THB 120), proving bright and bubbly. The Strawberry lemon shaken tea (THB 90) offered a lighter option, combining ripe strawberry notes with the tart freshness of lemon. For those with a sweet tooth, the Caramel milk shake (THB 165) was a buttery caramel fantasy. 

Mata Garden’s culinary geography spans Indian, Thai, and Eurasian with Chinese influences. We were simply spoiled for choice, but decided to focus on their Thai and Indian offerings. 

We began with the Spicy avocado salad (THB 220), which paired creamy avocado with a lively dressing. Next, the Spicy vegan fermented pork salad (THB 180) delivered the tangy character associated with fermented pork salad, with plenty of fresh herbs and spice. For something with a bite, the Deep fried spicy minced pork (THB 190) was crisp on the outside with a generous chilli kick. The Pineapple fried rice (THB 280) was pure spoonfuls of holiday, with juicy chunks of fresh pineapple and curry-tossed jasmine rice. Then came the Tom kha chicken (THB 180), which was brought to our table warm and over flame, brimming with the nostalgic taste of galangal.

Their Indian dishes were presented with plenty of flavour, starting with the refreshing and vibrantly presented Crispy palak chaat (THB 180). After, we savoured the Chicken lollipop (THB 280, L Size), served so succulent it was difficult to stop at just one. The Chicken biriyani (THB 320) arrived steaming and comforting, making it easy to enjoy alongside the other dishes.

It was tough selecting a standout dish, but we had to give it to their Pizza tandoori chicken (THB 380). The slices rolled in with tender tandoori chicken and stretchy cheese, making them easy to pass around the table and enjoy as a group. The dish neatly captures Mata Garden’s fusion-led approach of familiar favourites that are crafted with sharing in mind.

9, 9, Bang Kanoon, Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi 11130

Opening hours: 11:30 AM to 11 PM, closed every second and third Tuesday of the month (except for public holidays).

Tel.: +66 (0) 65 242 2248

Reserve: matagardencafe@gmail.com

Facebook: @matagardencafe

Instagram: @matagardenforever