From Farm to Flame at ‘Food By Fire’

Khon Kaen’s Hottest Eatery at Ad Lib Hotel Khon Kaen

For a true taste of Isan cuisine with a twist, look no further than Food by Fire at the stylish Ad Lib Hotel Khon Kaen. Ranked second on TripAdvisor for restaurants in Khon Kaen, this innovative eatery draws inspiration from the bold, spicy and vibrant flavours of northeastern Thailand. By elevating traditional dishes with a modern wood-fired technique, Food by Fire celebrates the region’s natural produce, wild ingredients and its long-standing history of cooking with fire and fermentation.

Ad Lib Khon Kaen - Food by Fire with mural

Sustainability and Tradition at the Core
Food by Fire’s ethos is rooted in sustainability and Isan traditions. The restaurant uses Binchotan charcoal and lychee wood to create a distinct, smoky flavour while maintaining eco-friendly practices. Fermentation also plays a central role, with natural sea salt used to enhance bold, tangy umami notes in their house-made pickles and slow-fermented rye sourdough. This approach not only adds depth to the dishes but also supports the local community through partnerships with regional farmers and producers, ensuring the freshest seasonal ingredients for every meal.

Flavours That Ignite the Senses
Expect dishes that celebrate Isan’s love for grilled meats, fresh seafood, crunchy vegetables, fiery chili pastes and tangy herbs—all enhanced with a smoky edge. Signature offerings include succulent Thai oysters, flame-charred beef paired with green papaya kimchi, and a reimagined Caesar salad featuring fluffy catfish. Each dish strikes the perfect balance between tradition and creativity, providing a modern yet authentic culinary experience that pays tribute to Isan’s rich food culture.

An Immersive Dining Experience
Beyond the food, the atmosphere is equally compelling. The open-kitchen design lets you watch as chefs expertly handle local ingredients over flames, blending traditional flavours with contemporary creativity. Paired with an impressive selection of wines and cocktails, each meal becomes a sensory journey through Isan’s rich culinary landscape. Adding to the bold ambiance, the restaurant features a striking Tiger Carpet made from upcycled ocean plastics, created by Khon Kaen artists. This captivating artwork symbolises strength and vitality, perfectly complementing the fiery flavours found in every dish at Food by Fire.

Whether you’re craving a taste of local culture or seeking an unforgettable dining experience, Food by Fire serves up the best of both worlds—authentic Isan flavours and innovative wood-fired creations. Don’t miss this fiery gem in Khon Kaen!