"Named after the birthplace of Thai distilling, the Tonburi Smoky ($19) at Makiin blends tradition with boldness. Bourbon and award-winning premium Thai rum form a full-flavored, smoky base that pairs well with kaffir lime leaves for a hint of citrus and Thai chile adds a subtle heat. The tropical influence is underlined with crème de banana and a caramelized orange garnish." - Brianna Griff
"Lukkaew Srasrisuwan follows up her restaurant Kin Dee with this fine-dining restaurant that gives a glimpse into the experiences of Thai royalty. Diners can feast on elaborate dishes like the Duck Garden Oasis, a serving of sous vide lemongrass duck breast with a colorful display of microgreens, edible flowers, and pomegranate seeds; or Chef O’s Award-winning Chicken, a dish composed of deboned chicken wings and stuffed chicken lollipops served with a Massaman curry with gold dust served tableside. The opulent hand-painted murals, bold gold accents, and jewel-toned tufted seating that drips with extravagance are just as satisfying." - Marcy de Luna
"Experience Thai tea culture at its finest at MaKiin. The fine-dining Thai restaurant serves aromatic herbal teas in handmade antique tea sets sourced from Thailand, along with a brunch-style assortment of sweet and savory Thai delicacies and snacks. Diners can get in on the high-tea experience for $35 for two, or $39 per person for unlimited tea and bites. Tea service is hosted from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday to Sunday." - Megha McSwain
"From the team behind Kin Dee, Makiin is an Upper Kirby Thai restaurant dripping in opulence and decked out in deep red and golden embellishment. Everything at Makiin feels a bit extravagant—appetizer samplers show up at the table on shimmering tiered towers, sizzling yellow curry is poured over braised ribs, and there’s almost certainly a dish that will arrive in a decadent cloud of smoke. Even with all of the spectacle, the food at Makiin is packed with flavor, and makes us want to circle back for another meal." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas
"The Deal: Three-course dinner for $55 per person Why We Like It: On a regular night, $55 at Makiin will hardly get you more than an appetizer and a round of cocktails in diamond-shaped glasses. During HRW, for the same price, you can try the filet mignon with charred eggplant and chili peppers, a plate of mango sticky rice, plus an assortment of curry with fresh roti. A meal at the Upper Kirby restaurant includes singers doing jazzy covers of Top 40 R&B hits, so eating here during HRW feels like a deal on dinner and entertainment." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas