I agree that that's very wrong. Perhaps it's a result of the Pen charging only $8 for afternoon tea whereas the Oriental charges $30+ (!). The ambience at the Oriental's Author's Lounge is far superior.

Just to add: The hot entrees at the Pen's breakfast buffet includes rice and noodles, both of which can be prepared fresh at the outdoor cooking station if you ask for it i.e. if you'd rather not scoop from the already-prepared warm buffet section. Also, variety is astounding! IIRC, it's just under $20/pp.

I agree with previous poster's comments about Sala Rim Naam at dinnertime: highly avoidable. Food was a major disappointment as it feels mass-produced. I found the show lackluster but I'm sure others would disagree. Thiptara has fantastic ambience but food was disappointing as well. Mahanaga was interesting: great decor/ambience, yummy food but more fusion than authentic Thai. It is rather out of the way so cab it. I have yet to try Celadon and can't wait for my next trip to do so! Spice Market is nice - great service and good authentic Thai food. The setting is informal so don't expect luxury here. Come for dinner - the set menu is a great value and a good sampler, but I'm afraid the portions might be too large for a simple lunch.

I can also recommend Lan Na Thai in Silom - great authentic Thai food and ambience (you dine in a traditional Thai house on stilts). Also, Blue Elephant one Skytrain stop away from the Oriental - housed in a mansion, the quality of food is high here. For local standards, the prices in these establishments (as well as the hotel restaurants) are high but reasonable for foreigners used to NYC prices.