Karo Coffee Roasters

Sri Lankan born Karo Iyash opened this sunlit corner spot in the Pridi neighborhood, the pocket of Phra Khanong Nuea wedged between Ekkamai and Thonglor that locals still call by the name of the soi rather than either bigger district. Iyash's own nose for beans is sharp enough that he roasts not just for his own counter but for partner kitchens around the city, including Public House and the Kimpton Maa Lai hotel, and he sums up the project simply as brewing more than just coffee.

Three in house espresso blends anchor the bar, roasted nearby, alongside a rotating global filter list that has run Nepal, Thailand and Ethiopia side by side. The kitchen leans into loaded sourdough sandwiches, house smoked bacon and fresh baked goods, with local Thai craft beer, home fermented ginger beer and fresh coconut water rounding out a menu built for long mornings. Brushed concrete surfaces, a sunny corner position at a T junction and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating make it an easy stop for laptop work, and the shop keeps a soft spot for dogs that wander in with their owners.