Zhang Jia Yi Betong Chicken Rice is an authentic and famous street food originally from Betong, a town in Yala province—the southernmost province of Thailand. Yala is home to many Chinese immigrants from Guangxi, China, who brought the Betong chicken breed with them. These chickens have since been naturally raised throughout the Betong area. As a result, Betong chickens are renowned for their firm, bouncy meat and crispy skin—offering a texture and flavor that’s truly one of a kind.
The new Zhang Jia Yi location is situated in the vibrant Ari neighborhood, right in the heart of Bangkok. The restaurant’s goal is to bring this authentic, traditional, and beloved dish to the city, preserving its heritage while sharing its rich flavors with a wider audience.
Space+Craft, as interior designers, we aim to enhance the originality and authentic value of street food—particularly the kind inspired by small Chinese street food restaurants in large cities. To capture this essence, we positioned the kitchen at the front of the space as a window kitchen, exposing the lively atmosphere of a traditional street food stall. This setup allows for the display of chickens and fresh ingredients, bringing the culinary process into full view and immersing guests in an authentic street food experience.
We created different types of seating to offer a variety of dining experiences. The banquet seating, set within a wooden chamber, is placed at the center of the space, serving as a visual and social focal point. Other seating options are arranged along the windows, allowing natural light to fill the interior.
To create a sense of nostalgia, we incorporated outdated interior elements commonly found in traditional Chinese row houses—such as old-style patterned gypsum ceiling panels, various designs of green wrought iron, Italian green marble, and small glazed tiles. These elements were reimagined and applied within a more modern interior design context. For instance, we adapted the wrought iron patterns into a custom graphic of chickens, making it a signature visual element that connects directly to the food concept. Green glazed tiles were carefully placed to define and enhance the seating areas. Additionally, Chinese calligraphy was featured on select walls, while custom graphics further reinforced the authentic and cultural atmosphere of the restaurant.
To conclude, Zhang Jia Yi Betong Chicken Rice in Ari stands as a true representation of tradition and authenticity, offering a rich cultural experience through both its cuisine and thoughtfully designed interior. Every details reflect a deep respect for heritage while embracing a modern sensibility.
Team:
Interior architect : Spacecraft co.,ltd
Photographer : Thanapol Jongsiripipat
