Thailand

The giant pot of dark brew brimming with beef, spices and herbs sits near the sidewalk on a busy street in Bangkok, where it is constantly stirred by a member of the third-generation-owned restaurant.

Some experts suggest King Maha Vajiralongkorn's firing of his consort may be an additional power move by a monarch who has worked to amass personal authority since he succeeded his father in 2016.

Chef Jay Fai cooks everything herself over two blazing charcoal fires in the alley, using only the highest-quality ingredients to serve customers who are willing to wait several hours to nab a table.

Thailand's ruling junta has enacted harsh laws aimed at punishing those who "defame" the country's monarchy. That's led many dissidents to flee the country, but that hasn't guaranteed their safety.