Nestled in the heart of Bangkok, Grok 1970 is a harmonious marriage of history, heritage, and new beginnings. Renovated from an ex-shabu restaurant into a contemporary Thai dining destination, the space reflects the vision of Chef Titoom, whose deep-rooted legacy in Ratchaburi cuisine earned the restaurant its prestigious Michelin Guide 2025 recognition. Every corner of Grok whispers stories of tradition, while its thoughtful design reinvents the space to embody its new identity, a celebration of Thai authenticity redefined for the modern era.
The challenge for this project lay in preserving the soul of the original structure, its staircase, wooden flooring, ceiling fans, and intricately crafted wooden ceilings, all while infusing a fresh narrative that would elevate Grok’s branding and dining experience. The result is a balance of old and new, where heritage materials seamlessly coexist with contemporary design elements, telling a story of timelessness and evolution.
A Conversation Between Old and New
The entrance façade sets the tone with its understated charm, inviting guests into a space where the textures of the past are celebrated. The existing staircase and wooden flooring, meticulously restored, form the foundation of the restaurant’s warm and nostalgic character. The use of dark terrazzo walls creates a beautiful contrast against the rich wooden tones, introducing a subtle modern edge while allowing the space to retain its earthy, tactile quality.
Inside, each dining area is crafted as a story within a story. The downstairs dining zones blend intimacy and openness, with carefully curated niches and seating zones that evoke a sense of comfort and exclusivity. Custom-built wooden shelving, softly illuminated, showcases artisanal decor and objects that honor local craftsmanship. Every element, from the solid wood dining tables to the handcrafted black chairs, was chosen to align with Grok’s ethos of supporting local artistry and Thai heritage.
The private dining areas are intimate sanctuaries where the interplay of textures becomes even more pronounced. Velvet-upholstered seating, dark-toned wood, and subtle lighting cast a warm, golden glow, enhancing the experience of sharing meals and stories. The vintage wooden window shutters remain untouched, framing the space with whispers of its history.
Layered Design and Natural Harmony
The upstairs area introduces a sense of openness and airiness while continuing to honor the home’s original architecture. Slatted wooden panels and delicate railing details frame the mezzanine, where a beautiful banquette seating zone wraps around the corner, bathed in soft ambient lighting. Overhead, the restored ceiling fans and coffered ceilings pay tribute to the past, breathing life into every meal served below. A thoughtfully placed indoor tree adds a grounding natural element, connecting the space to the organic roots of Grok’s cuisine.
Lighting throughout Grok 1970 was designed to enhance the experience of both the space and the food. Soft linear LED lighting embedded into architectural details highlights the natural grain of wood and creates an inviting warmth, while focused spotlights ensure every dish on the table takes center stage.
The Experience
Grok 1970 is not merely a restaurant. It is a journey through time, flavor, and craftsmanship. By respecting the house’s original materials, restored wooden staircases, floors, and ceilings, and thoughtfully pairing them with modern design, we created a space that feels both familiar and new. The design serves as a backdrop to Chef Titoom’s vision, where every meal becomes a celebration of Thai culture, local wisdom, and artisanal ingredients.
Here, the warmth of tradition meets the elegance of modernity. It is a place where diners can immerse themselves in a timeless story, one that honors the past while looking boldly to the future.
