< Previous60 COME DINE WITH ME THE FEAST61 Located within Anantara Layan Phuket Resort, Dara Cuisine Phuket promises a stupendous dinner followed by stargazing guided by an astronomy expert, on a customised observatory deck equipped with Phuket’s most powerful telescope. The tone of the unique evening is set by a sophisticated restaurant interior, with the grains of different woods playing off each other under ambience lighting, offset with touches of fresh nature. A curated selection of Thai crafts gives a nod to cultural roots. On one end sits the open kitchen, where the skilled kitchen team work the grill. Head Chef Supakarn (Hong) Lienpanich explained to us: “Dara’s culinary philosophy is simple: honour the natural taste of quality local produce and let the ingredients shine. In addition to growing our own herbs, we’ve partnered with eco-conscious local farms and fisheries, which allows us to adapt to the rhythm of the seasons – from serving crisp harvest in the dry months to showcasing Thailand’s natural abundance when the monsoon comes”. Chef Hong added that all the sauces and curry pastes used are house-made, then wished us an enjoyable evening before returning to the kitchen. The dishes at Dara Cuisine Phuket not only please the palate but are also a treat for the eyes with stunning modern plating. One outstanding dish was Tom Yum Kang Kradan (THB 700), a spicy soup of rock lobster tails that was reminiscent of a science lab experiment. Other recommendations are Pla Yang Bai Thong (THB 1,400), marinated black cod in burnt banana leaf with turmeric; Kaeng Phed Ped Yang (THB 900), sous vide duck breast in house-made red curry with figs; and Kao Yum (THB 700), rice salad with crispy, fluffy fish and mixed berry sauce. For dessert, Rabob Suriya Jakawan (THB 1,600), representing the solar system, was a spectacle on the platter and won our hearts. After the splendid meal it was time to join the astronomy expert on the observatory deck. With new cocktails in our hands (constellation- inspired, of course) and gentle, cool breezes in the air, we listened to captivating stories and myths related to the stars. We were then led When divine modern Thai food is teamed with the opportunity for stargazing, the outcome cannot be anything else but a mesmerising evening to remember for a lifetime. DARA CUISINE PHUKET Anantara Layan Phuket Resort 168 Moo 6, Layan Beach Soi 4, Cherngtalay, Thalang, Phuket, Thailand 83110 T. +66 076 317 200 E. phuketlayan@anantara.com W. www.anantara.com/en/layan- phuket/restaurants/dara-cuisine Open daily 6-10 pm (The sky observatory and stargazing programme are available from 6 pm till midnight.) into the custom-built dome equipped with a state-of-the-art telescope and given time to gaze through it and contemplate all the mysteries and wonders in the sky high above. The evening simply could not have been any better, and will remain one to remember for a lifetime! STARGAZING DINNER Text by Urasa Chittamvanich62 COME DINE WITH ME THE FEAST63 With 20 years spent at the gastronomic end of the spectrum, Executive Chef Christian has created highly innovative dishes with authentic flavours here using the finest produce from the nearby Andaman Sea, plus seasonal produce and fragrant herbs and spices. To fully enjoy his culinary approach, we decided to order Lae Lay Chef’s Experience Menu which is a four-course menu at THB 3,600 per person. Our lavish meal kicked off with Kingfish Ceviche with Celtuce, Your Baby Cos Salad, Yuzu and Oscietra Caviar. The presentation was delightful, with thin slices of the fresh fish laid beautifully on a round plate covered with flavoursome dressing. The flavours of the fish together with the dressing and the caviar was divine and set the right tone for the dishes that were to follow. Grilled Lobster with Red Curry, Carrot, Orange and Coriander was next to LAE LAY PHULAY BAY, A RITZ- CARLTON RESERVE 111 Moo 3, Nongthalay, Muang, Krabi, Thailand 81180 T. +66 75 628111 W. www.phulaybay.com Lae lay is open daily Lunch: 1-4 pm (serving grilled seafood and meats) Dinner: 6-10 pm Text by Urasa Chittamvanich With a view of the Andaman horizon dotted with palm trees and the turquoise sea, Lae Lay sits in luxurious tranquillity with a wooden interior adorned with Lanna paintings and hanging lanterns. Added to that is its top-notch Asian-inspired menu created by innovative Executive Chef Christian Herrgesell, who has spent 10 years at Restaurant Tim Raue, which holds two Michelin stars, in Berlin. SPLENDID SPECTRUM arrive, also plated impressively. The lobster was grilled to perfection and the curry was not intense but present enough to add to the overall deliciousness factor. The third course was Braised Wagyu Beef with Beurre Rouge, Beetroot, Red Onion and Kai Lan. The beef melted in our mouth and the sauce, rich and glossy. Ending the splendid meal on a sweet note as we gazed in contentment at the horizon change colour from golden hues to the dark of night, we enjoyed Milky Rice with Raspberry, Almond and Shiso. The presentation was playful, adorned with chocolate bites in the shape of a tree, and I could not help but finish every bit of it with a smile. We left Lae Lay with our appetites and souls in high spirits after the marvellous evening. 64 COME DINE WITH ME THE FEAST65 When you step into the restaurant, you will be enveloped by soft, yellow lighting that highlights the beauty of the dark wooden furniture and creates an inviting atmosphere. The interior hints of contemporary Catalonia with artful touches such as mosaic-work on the walls with Benjarong patterns. SA-NG´A distinguishes itself from other modern Thai restaurants with its tapas presentation. Each dish exudes traditional Thai flavours but with a sophisticated twist, and the excitement of diners will build with every course. Highlights here include Seared Scallops (THB 590), topped with ikura salmon roe and paired with a spicy seafood sauce, altogether offering a burst of fresh ocean. The tender scallops melt in the mouth while the roe adds delightful pops of salty flavour. The spicy seafood sauce perfectly complements the dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the scallops. The Mini Magnum (THB 460) is an absolute delight. Grilled salmon sticks shaped like Magnum ice cream bars are served with lemongrass, chilli seasoning, and lime caviar. The creativity behind this dish is remarkable; it’s both delicious and fun to eat with the succulent salmon beautifully balanced with zesty lime caviar and aromatic lemongrass. Another standout is Ka Wi (THB 630), Thai- style marinated Wagyu beef on skewers served on a mini charcoal stove with sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves, and accompanied by lemongrass, kaffir lime, and ginger on the side. The beef is incredibly flavourful and tender, each bite revealing layers of rich, savoury goodness. The sticky rice is soft and fragrant, providing a perfect accompaniment to the beef, while the lemongrass, kaffir lime, and ginger add a brightness and some acidity for balance. The Tom Yum Cappuccino (THB 380) offers a fresh tiger prawn with young coconut, and a stylish jar of tom yum soup to pour over the prawn. The tom yum is concentrated in flavour, made with prawn heads and then turned into espuma (an airy foam) to give it a texture similar to cappuccino. This sophisticated technique elevates the dish, making each sip and bite intense and delightful. Finally, the Crispy Golden Crab (THB 420) is a revelation of both flavours and textures. A giant crispy soft-shell crab is dipped into intense yellow curry and topped with betel leaves. The crab is crispy on the outside but tender on the inside and the curry is aromatic and rich, making each bite an explosion of tastes. For those who enjoy ending a meal with a dessert, do not miss the Mango Sticky Rice Dessert (THB 390). While it’s a common dish, SA-NG´A’s version is unforgettable with the classic flavours presented in more unusual textures. Inside a chocolate-coated dessert shaped and coloured like a mango that is served with coconut ice cream, you'll discover mango mousse, mango sauce and fresh cream, topped with fragrant sticky rice and Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya SA-NG´A, which translates to "elegant", embodies its name perfectly with a modern Thai culinary experience that touches on traditions. Located within the stunning Centara Reserve Samui, SA-NG´A serves Thai tapas masterfully crafted in an interactive open kitchen. A TASTE OF THAI ELEGANCE mung bean crumble. Every bite reveals the same heavenly combination of sweet mango, coconut, rich and nutty sticky rice. SA-NG´A a must-visit for food-lovers seeking an elegant and unforgettable culinary adventure. What the restaurant does so well is use the distinct flavours and aromas of Thai spices and herbs, and present them in innovative and irresistible ways. After our dinner, we highly recommend SA-NG´A whether you're into modern Thai cuisine or capturing beautifully-presented food for social media. SA-NG´A Centara Reserve Samui 38/2 Moo 3, Borpud, Chaweng Beach, Koh Samui, Surat Thani 84320 T. +66 (0) 77 230 500 E. crs@chr.co.th LINE. @CentaraReserve66 and the signature pickles, which altogether make the perfect burger meal. The appetisers at Big Bite are equally enticing, though. The Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wings (THB 280) are served with fresh celery, carrot sticks and blue cheese sauce, and are a must-try. The Fried Pickles with Ranch Sauce (THB 150) are the best I’ve had, while the Avocado Corn Salad (THB 150) offers a fresh start to the meal. No meal is complete without dessert, and the milkshakes and soda floats at Big Bite Burger Bar & Grill are exceptional. The Strawberry Cheesecake Milkshake (THB 240) features strawberry purée, strawberry ice cream, milk and a cookie crumble, and is a dessert in a glass. The Cherry Cola Vanilla Float (THB 240) combines cherry cola and vanilla ice cream for a nostalgic treat. Both offer smooth and creamy textures, topped with soft BIG BITE BURGER BAR & GRILL Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport 599/9 Lat Krabang Road, Lat Krabang, Bangkok, Thailand T. +66 (0) 2 780 3588 E. cy.bkkap.fbrsvn@courtyard.com IG. bigbiteburger_bkk W. https://bit.ly/BunVoyage COME DINE WITH ME THE FEAST Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya Craving the simple yet juicy deliciousness of a classic burger? Big Bite Burger Bar & Grill brings back the classic American diner experience with a focus on premium quality, giving every bite an explosion of flavour and nostalgia. Nestled on the 1st floor of the Canalside, at Courtyard by Marriott Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, this charming establishment welcomes burger enthusiasts daily from 5.00 to 10.00 pm. BITE INTO BANGKOK'S BEST The star of the menu here is the Big Bite Burger (THB 420), a mouthwatering masterpiece featuring double Australian Wagyu beef patties, cheddar cheese, bacon, cucumber pickles, onion rings and a secret sauce. The house-made brioche bread on which that is served is baked fresh daily, creating the perfect carrier for everything. The Nashville Hot Chicken (THB 380) offers a crispy fried chicken burger with lettuce and garlic mayo, for a spicy kick with crunch and tang. Vegetarians need not feel left out as the Plant-Powered Burger (THB 360), crafted with Beyond Meat, avocado, corn salad, tomato, lettuce, sautéed mushrooms and cheddar cheese will fully satisfy their craving. For a low-carb and also fun option, the “L” URGER (THB 380) wraps all the delicious components in crisp Iceberg lettuce. Each burger is accompanied by crinkle-cut fries whipped cream and delightful toppings. Adding to their appeal, Big Bite Burger Bar & Grill also offers daily special deals. Such as Milkshake Madness Mondays with 30% off milkshakes, Two-for-One Tuesdays when all burgers come with a float, and Sunday Sweet Tooth Sundaes featuring a “buy one ice cream sundae, get one free”. These deals ensure that every visit will be satisfying! For an authentic American-style burger meal, Big Bite Burger Bar & Grill is a must-visit. With its winning combination of quality ingredients, skilled cooking and a welcoming atmosphere, you won't be disappointed.67 Truffle Tart; and Prawn in Tamarind Sauce with Paii’s Signature Chilli Jam Bun. A refreshing mango sorbet then cleanses and prepares your palate for the sweet indulgences to follow. Afternoon tea wouldn’t be complete without scones and clotted cream. Here, chocolate chip and also plain scones are served with Devonshire clotted cream and homemade marmalade and jams. The scones are fluffy and soft inside with a perfect crisp edge and top, a rare find in Bangkok nowadays and a testament to the quality of the pastry kitchen here. Next, the Wild Berries & Kaffir Lime Chantilly Waffle, a bestseller, arrives with strawberry sauce. The waffles are wonderfully fluffy and soft. The dessert selection on the afternoon tea stand is as exquisite as it is delicious: Raspberry Dome; Citrus Monaka; Cherries THE HOUSE ON SATHORN 106 North Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10500 T. 02 344 4025 E. thehouseonsathorn@whotels.com W. www.thehouseonsathorn.com COME DINE WITH ME THE FEAST Text by Chondarin Subarna Na Ayudhya In the tropical heat of Bangkok, there's nothing more delightful than indulging in a sumptuous afternoon tea while seated in an oasis. The House on Sathorn, in the W Bangkok compound, is such an oasis. Built in 1889, this is a neo-classic masterpiece and a national heritage site. Nestled among skyscrapers, it serves as an elegant restaurant and bar today. RELISH THE AFTERNOON The PAII Afternoon Tea offers unique sets of modern Thai seafood savoury and sweet bites, presented beautifully. They are a feast for both the eyes and the palate, offering a unique fusion of Western tea tradition with a Thai concept, and the setting is simply stunning with numerous Instagrammable spots both indoor and outdoor. Diners may select from the two delightful sets on offer: the Heritage Afternoon Tea Set (THB 1,690++ for two) which includes pots of TWG tea or coffee; or the Hotel Royal Afternoon Tea Set (THB 2,990++ for two) which includes pots of TWG tea or coffee, and also a bottle of Martini D.O.C. Prosecco. The afternoon tea adventure begins with four savoury delights: Baked Oyster in Paii Yellow Curry with Phuket Pineapple; Salmon Mousse with Dashi Biscuit; Mushroom & Delight Tart; Pistachio Opera Cake; Orchid Tea Delight; Chocolate & Banana Financier; and Pansy Blueberry Canelé. PAII offers more than 10 TWG tea blends, but I recommend the exclusive blends for The House on Sathorn: Starry Night Tea, a black tea with jasmine, lavender and vanilla aromas; and Green Garden Tea, a green tea with grapefruit, chamomile and rose. Coffee-lovers can enjoy a unique blend from Chiang Rai. This was one of the most wonderful afternoon teas I have had in Bangkok. The setting is unique and stunning, the presentation is impeccable, and the staff are lovely yet professional. Be sure to treat yourself to this exceptional treat that is available any day of the week, during 2.30 – 5.30 pm.68 THE JOURNEY Photo by Eravaj Snitbhan69 THE JOURNEY 70 PATAGONIA A journey to the edge of the world.Next >