Introduction
I recently visited the Japanese izakaya “Mimata” located about a 15-minute walk from BTS Thonglor Station, and I’m excited to share my review.
About the Japanese Izakaya “Mimata” in Thonglor
Mimata is situated approximately a 15-minute walk from BTS Thonglor Station. To get there, head north along Thonglor Road (Sukhumvit Soi 55) for about 12 minutes, turn left onto Thonglor Soi 9, and then take the immediate left into a small alley. You’ll find a landmark at the corner of the alley: “Nai Joi’s Noodle Shop,” which I’ve reviewed previously. While it might be a little tricky to find, Google Maps will guide you there without any trouble.
Mimata is a pure Japanese izakaya run by a master chef originally from Oita Prefecture. The chef, who is over 70 years old, has over 50 years of culinary experience, spanning both Japan and Thailand. He’s incredibly friendly and approachable, making for lively conversations. He even remembers details from previous chats, a true testament to his dedication as a business owner! The walls of Mimata are lined with numerous kept bottles of liquor, along with many letters and photos from regular customers, clearly showing how beloved the establishment is.
Dinner: Izakaya “Mimata” Menu (Photos, Prices, Review)
Although I’ll discuss the breakfast and lunch service later, Mimata opens for dinner at 5 PM. The master chef mentioned that he doesn’t have any particular specialties, but his “nimono” (simmered dishes) are quite popular.
On this visit, I enjoyed the “Nikujaga” (meat and potato stew) for 150 THB, accompanied by an Asahi draft beer for 120 THB. The Nikujaga tasted like a nostalgic, home-cooked Japanese meal. Enjoying it while chatting with the chef was truly heartwarming. The beer was excellent, likely due to well-maintained equipment, as it had a clean taste with minimal off-flavors.
Breakfast/Lunch: Khao Man Gai “Mimata” Menu (Photos, Prices, Review)
The master chef’s wife is Thai, and they sell khao man gai (Hainanese chicken rice) inside the restaurant every day from 9 AM to 2 PM, except on Sundays. This is a “two-business” operation. His wife is also very friendly and speaks Japanese, so I always enjoy my lunches here. Incidentally, the khao man gai service at Mimata is quite new. This is a hidden gem!
At Mimata, both the standard khao man gai and the deep-fried version (khao man gai tote) are priced at 60 THB. Adding mix-ins or a fried egg costs 70 THB. A price of 60 THB is comparable to street food, but being able to enjoy it in Mimata’s air-conditioned dining room is fantastic. Regarding the “language” and “hygiene” aspects I often mention when discussing street food, there are no issues whatsoever at Mimata. The taste is delicious, and I highly recommend it! Each khao man gai order comes with soup, so you probably won’t need a drink, but a 500ml bottle of water is 10 THB. Depending on the restaurant’s situation, they might also be able to serve Asahi draft beer for 120 THB (subject to discussion). Other menu items may be available upon inquiry.
Recommendation Level for Izakaya & Khao Man Gai “Mimata”
To be helpful, I’ll assign a score, referencing Tabelog (Japan’s top restaurant-review site). For me, Mimata, the izakaya and khao man gai shop in Thonglor, would probably equate to a 3.4 on the Tabelog scale. However, this place offers so much more than just a score can convey. I highly recommend both the izakaya, Mimata, and the morning/lunch khao man gai, Mimata. Please visit!
Introduction Video of Izakaya “Mimata”
Conclusion
Mimata, the izakaya and khao man gai shop in Thonglor, offers many delights, including nimono dishes prepared by a master chef with over 50 years of experience, warm conversations, and delicious khao man gai made by the chef’s wife for breakfast and lunch! I especially recommend visiting when you miss Japan or want to connect with the friendly chef and his wife!
| Shop Name | Izakaya & Khao Man Gai “Mimata” |
| Cuisine Type | Izakaya, Khao Man Gai Shop |
| Budget | Lunch: Khao Man Gai Shop → 60 THB (Khao Man Gai) Dinner: Izakaya → Approx. 800-900 THB (3 dishes, 3 beers) |
| Opening Hours | Lunch: Khao Man Gai Shop → 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Closed Sundays) Dinner: Izakaya → 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Closed Sundays) |
| Access | Approx. 15-minute walk from BTS Thonglor Station |
| Phone Number | 02-392-9794 |
| Address | 22, 161/13 Soi Thonglor 9, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110 |
| Web |
