FRAN’S BKK
- Rayki Goh, MSc
- 22 hours ago
- 3 min read
Dear food people,
If you're looking for a spot with natural lighting that flatters every angle, Fran’s BKK is the kind of aesthetic restaurant that fits perfectly into your social media grid. Think P.S. Cafe at Palais Renaissance in Singapore, but with more botanical charm and a bright, glasshouse setting. The moment you step in, the glass ceiling above the dining area immediately draws your attention. It’s easy to see why this place shows up so often on Instagram. The natural lighting makes it ideal for influencer-style photo shoots.
They managed to accommodate our group of 12, which makes it a great choice for larger gatherings. The interior carries a consistent dark green theme, from the painted wall panels to the menu design. If I had to be specific about the colour tone, it’s close to Hex code 0B421A. It’s a deep, elegant forest green that adds to the space’s chic and relaxed feel.
BACKGROUND
Situated in the Sathorn district, Fran’s has gained popularity on social media for its modern, greenhouse-style interior. The restaurant was opened by Atchara “Pla Iberry” Burarak in collaboration with well-known chef Charlie Kader. This bistro-style concept serves brunch favourites such as bread, coffee, pasta, and pancakes, all in a European-inspired, laid-back setting.
WHAT WE ORDERED?
With 12 of us at the table, we managed to sample almost the entire menu. I didn’t try everything, but I did get a good taste of several dishes. I went for the pancakes with berry compote (330 baht, or SGD 12.97), mainly for nostalgic reasons. The warm berry sauce was zesty and rich, with plenty of whole berries in a smooth, sweet reduction. The pancakes were fluffy and not too heavy, and the sweetness was perfectly balanced. The portion size was generous. I could only manage three slices on my own, and even with help, we couldn’t finish the plate.
I also had a bite of the ham and cheese toast, made with soft brioche lightly dusted with icing sugar. It’s essentially your standard ham and cheese sandwich, but with a slightly dessert-like presentation. It was a creative twist that kept the dish hearty while adding an interesting layer of flavour.
The sweet potato fries were average and didn’t stand out from what you’d typically find elsewhere. On the other hand, the thick-cut bacon was a highlight. Smoky, juicy, and satisfying in every bite, it’s clear why this item is one of their most popular.
DID YOU KNOW?
Most people don’t realise that commercial berry jam often contains as little as 25% actual fruit, with the rest made up of sugar, glucose syrup, thickeners, and acidity regulators. Many also rely on synthetic pectin and artificial colour enhancers to mimic a rich, fruity texture and vibrant appearance. Some even bulk up their jams with cheap fillers like apple or pear purée, despite being labelled as “berry jam.” In contrast, homemade jam typically uses over 50% real fruit, natural pectin, and minimal ingredients, giving it a shorter shelf life, which is actually a sign of fewer preservatives. Even sugar-free versions of commercial jams can contain less fruit and more chemical additives than you’d expect.
THE VERDICT
Shiok Rating: 4 out of 5. Fran’s BKK offers a comforting yet refined take on brunch classics. The pancakes with berry compote were a standout, light and fluffy with a tangy-sweet finish. The ham and cheese toast on brioche added a playful sweet-savoury twist. While the sweet potato fries were forgettable, the thick-cut bacon was smoky, juicy, and satisfying. Overall, the menu blends familiar flavours with just enough creativity to keep things fresh.
Vibes Rating: 5 out of 5. The glasshouse structure allows for the clever use of natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere that makes the entire dining experience feel more enjoyable. The space feels open and calming, helped by a consistent design theme of deep green tones and warm textures. It’s clear that the ambience has been carefully curated without feeling overdone. Whether you're visiting for a casual brunch or a special gathering, the setting adds something special. It's not just a beautiful space for taking photos, it's genuinely a place you’ll want to stay and soak in the experience.
Location: 58 Ngam Duphli Alley, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Sathon, Thailand, 10120
Opens daily from 8am to 10pm.
