From knock-out pizzas up to Neapolitan standards to the stuff Mama used to make, The BigChilli rounds up some of the best Italian spots in the city
La Tavola & Wine Bar IT’S all about sharing at the casual Italian La Tavola & Wine Bar at Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, where the chef’s passion for home-made pasta and the light wood-tone interior make newcomers feel warm and cosy. The open as will the beverages from the excellent Wine Bar. Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong, 518/1 Ploenchit Road, Bangkok 10330 02-125-5020. renaissance-hotels.marriott.com |
Mozza by Cocotte
PART of The Kitchen Group's ever-growing repertoire of eateries in Bangkok, Mozza takes its name from a staple in any Italian kitchen: Mozzarella. Expect to fi nd all things cheesy and don’t miss the Salmon Tartare (420++ baht) nor the Carpi Salerno pizza (760++ baht), the stuff your Italian dreams are made of. Their tagline is “La Cucina di Mama”, meaning mum’s kitchen. Is there anything better than that?
EmQuartier, 693 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110
097 004 0072.
mozza-bangkok.com
PART of The Kitchen Group's ever-growing repertoire of eateries in Bangkok, Mozza takes its name from a staple in any Italian kitchen: Mozzarella. Expect to fi nd all things cheesy and don’t miss the Salmon Tartare (420++ baht) nor the Carpi Salerno pizza (760++ baht), the stuff your Italian dreams are made of. Their tagline is “La Cucina di Mama”, meaning mum’s kitchen. Is there anything better than that?
EmQuartier, 693 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110
097 004 0072.
mozza-bangkok.com
La Scala BOASTING an impressive contemporary and elegant design, La Scala’s beautiful poolside setting is complemented by an open kitchen serving up sublime dishes from a well-thought menu that shows there’s more to Italian fare than meets the eye. The Sukhothai Bangkok, 13/3 South Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10120 02 344 8888 ext 8654. sukhothai.com/ |
Lola by Cocotte IF Mozza presents classic Italian cuisine, his younger sister adds something else to the table. With Instagram-worthy décor and retro meets trendy vibes, Lola is tucked away on Ekkamai 12 and serving up a great mix of American and Italian eats. Go for the sumptuous Amazing Meatballs pasta (320 ++ baht), the name says it all, or stop by on a Sunday and join their famous Brunch Party. 39 Ekkamai Alley Soi 12, Bangkok 10110, 062 208 8828. lola-bangkok.com Don Giovanni Restaurant HEAD to Centara Grand and dig in on Don Giovanni’s trattoriainspired range of signature dishes. Behind the kitchen is seasoned Chef Stefano Zaninelli, with over 30 years of experience working as a professional chef and whose childhood memories were the inspiration behind the new menu. Start with the Wagyu Beef Carpaccio (720++ baht) and save space for their excellent Italian Semolina Creme Brulee (380++ baht). Centara Grand,1693 Phahonyothin Road, Bangkok 10900 02 541 1234 ext 4151. centarahotelsresorts.com/centaragrand |
Volti VOLTI’S menu features timeless Italian favourites. The restaurant’s artfully designed creations are visually pleasing, full of fl avour and can be washed down with a glass of wine from their 150 plus selection. The oozy Burratina Pugliese (460++ baht) is a classic that never disappoints. Shangri-La Hotel, 89 Soi Wat Suan Plu, New Road, Bangkok 10500 02 236 7777. shangri-la.com/bangkok |
Terraza CHEF Roberto honed his skills in rustic Italian cuisine in Sardinia, before gracing the kitchens of some fine dining restaurants throughout Europe. His relocation to Thailand is to our good fortune, and with an outstanding array of classic dishes, Chef Roberto has given Terrazza a menu worthy of any homeland ristorante. Pathumwan Princess Hotel, 444 MBK Center, Phayathai Road, Bangkok, 10330 02 216 3700 Ext. 20818. pprincess.com/bangkok-dining |
Mediini THINK fine dining in a stunning setting on the 35th floor of The Continent at Asok, with an original dash of Asian flavour. This lofty Italian brings together cityscape vistas that are as sweeping as its cuisine and was the 2016 winner of the World Luxury Restaurant Awards for Best Italian Cuisine in Asia. Enough said. 413 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110 02 686 7000. thecontinentdining.com |
Jamie’s Italian THE famous eatery with outlets all over the globe almost needs no introduction. Jamie’s Italian is known for its casual Italian fare made with fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from farms around Thailand. Their new menu brings earthy vegetarian options such as the Veggie Bolognese (360++ baht), made with fresh tagliatelle, rich tomato sauce and topped with lentil and porcini ragu. Not that hungry? Go for the creamy Jamie’s Burrata Salad (420++ baht), you’ll thank us later. Siam Discovery, Rama 1 Road, Bangkok 10330 02 255 5222. jamieoliver.com/italian/thailand |
| < Nº43 Italian Bistro JUST a short walk from Central Chidlom, No. 43 Italian Bistro boasts warm lamp-lit booths and tables that spread across a split level with a light wood floor that creates an elegant yet cosy atmosphere. Their impossibly creamy risottos are some of the favourites, but make sure to finish your meal with a steaming espresso and matching Tiramisu, undoubtedly one of the menu’s highlights. Cape House, 43 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok 10330 02 658 7444 ext 285. capehouse.com ^ Da Vinci DA VINCI is a family-friendly space that serves from a menu of classic Italian dishes by Chef Alessandro Eusebi. Born, raised and professionally trained in the ancient city of Rimini, he worked in many renowned restaurants in Northern Italy and proudly carries the official title of Master Pizza Chef 2010. That said, don’t miss the piping hot pizza straight out of the wood-fired oven. Rembrandt Bangkok, 19 Sukhumvit Soi 18, Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110 022617090. rembrandtbkk.com |
^ Attico
SET on the 28th level with brickand- barrel walls that evoke the feeling of a charming Tuscan villa, Attico serves authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Bangkok with sparkling views from the alfresco areas. The chef and sommelier work together to create alluring pairings of food and fine wine that surprise and excite even the most knowledgeable connoisseurs of Italian fare.
Radisson Blu Plaza, 489 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110
02 302 3333. radissonblu.com/en/plazahotel-bangkok
SET on the 28th level with brickand- barrel walls that evoke the feeling of a charming Tuscan villa, Attico serves authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Bangkok with sparkling views from the alfresco areas. The chef and sommelier work together to create alluring pairings of food and fine wine that surprise and excite even the most knowledgeable connoisseurs of Italian fare.
Radisson Blu Plaza, 489 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110
02 302 3333. radissonblu.com/en/plazahotel-bangkok
| Scalini DRAWING inspiration from the 1920s, Scalini is a perennial favourite among devotees of fine Italian-American food. Pass by the vibrant open kitchen and take a closer look at the tempting charcuterie and extensive wine displays. Their Boston Lobster and Blue Crab Chitarra Pasta (740++ baht) is truly something. The cherry on top? Ask for the Scalini Tiramisu (480++ baht) and watch as they make it right in front of you. Hilton Sukhumvit Bangkok, 11 Sukhumvit Soi 24, Bangkok 10110 02 620 6666. sukhumvitbangkok.doubletree.com |
Biscotti ONE of Bangkok’s favourite trattoria-style eateries, Biscotti has served up contemporary Italian cuisine for almost two decades, from its signature Focaccia with Mascarpone and Truffle Oil (590++ baht) to its homemade Ossobuco Ravioli (1,050++ baht). The restaurant was awarded The Plate distinction in the inaugural edition of Bangkok’s Michelin Guide. Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel, 155 Ratchadamri Road, Bangkok 10330 02 126 8866. biscottibangkok.com |
Favola A wood-fired pizza oven, a compelling wine cellar, and an alfresco terrace. Need we say more? Created by Chef Fabio Genghini, Favola serves up traditional Italian cuisine with a twist and has a distinct and cosy feeling of a rustic home in Tuscany. With a cheerful atmosphere and enticing aromas emanating from its oven, the eatery tends to convince anyone passing by to join the fun. 789 Moo 14, Bangna-Trad Road, Samutprakarn 10540 02 118 7777. lemeridiensuvarnabhumi.com/favola |
Medici Kitchen & Bar MEDICI Kitchen and Bar is on a mission to change the perception we have about Italian food. The Thailand Tatler's winner of Best Italian Restaurant cleverly explores the rich offerings of the Mediterranean coastline and draws from the influence it had on shaping the cuisine of neighbouring countries. Hotel Muse Bangkok, 55/555 Soi Langsuan, Bangkok 10330 02 630 4000. medici-italian-restaurant-bangkok.com |
Al Dente RECENTLY opened at Thonglor’s ‘the Commons’, fresh pasta is the backbone of this new Venetian style Italian osteria. Their dishes are homemade daily and based on regional recipes. The open displaystyle kitchen gives you a peek behind the scenes, so grab a seat at the dining bar and experience at first hand the art behind artisan pasta making. The Commons, 335 Thonglor 17, 55 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok 10110 09 7078 1968. aldentebkk.com |
Theo Mio BEFORE packing up and moving to Thailand, chef Theo headed the award-winning Theo Randall in London, the only UK restaurant to be selected for the coveted Cucina d’Italia gourmet guide. With more than 25 years of experience in some of the world’s best kitchens, Randall now brings his love of fine Italian food to InterContinental Bangkok. Great food, great ambience and some fun people-watching from its terrace makes it well worth a visit. 973 Ploenchit Road, Bangkok 10330 02 656 0444 bangkok.intercontinental.com |
Gianni CHEF Gianni Favro has earned an admirable reputation in Bangkok’s culinary circles for its warm and personal service, complemented by first-class Italian cuisine. The restaurant has been around for over twenty years, and the authentic, hearty dishes that put them on the map for such a long time are still being served today. If it’s not broken why fix it, right? 34/1 Soi Tonson, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok 10330 02 252 1619. giannibkk.com |
Giorgio’s RESPLENDENT with chandeliers, dark wood columns and a faux patina finish on the walls, Giorgio’s modern design, traditional flavours and impressive wine list doesn’t fail to impress. Whether you choose to cosy up inside or enjoy the breeze on the terrace, their views of the Chaophraya River set the scene for a stunning dining experience. Royal Orchid Sheraton, 2 Charoen Krung Road Soi 30, Bangkok 10500 02 266 0123 ext 320. royalorchidsheraton.com |
Urbani CURIOUS to know what all the fuss surrounding truffles is about? The Urbani family has been dedicated to truffles for six generations and is acknowledged as the world’s most esteemed distributor of the revered Italian truffle. They now conjour the best creations right in the middle of Silom. If going in for the full experience, don’t miss the Pizza Truffle (980++ baht). 98 North, Sathorn Road, Bangkok 10500 02 233 1990. urbanithailand.com |
Di Vino SPLIT between three small rooms in the corner of Penny’s Balcony community mall, this venue pleases foodies and oenophiles alike with a wide selection of culinary and liquid comforts. The menu features all the classics you’d expect, and their wine list offers bottles from every region of Italy, from Alto Adige to Tuscany and Calabria. Soi Thonglor 16, Sukhumvit 55, Bangkok 10110 02 7148723. divinobkk.com |
La Bottega di Luca THE dishes at this eatery reflect Luca’s genuine expertise when it comes to Italian flavours, and combined with Sardinian Chef’s Andrea Ortu touch, show a passion for care and the quality of the ingredients. With some exceptional Super Tuscans around, take their wine advice and go deep on the fresh pasta. Sukhumvit Soi 49, Bangkok 10110 02 204 1731. labottega.name |
Cantina Wine Bar & Italian Kitchen WITH stunning rustic wood details, this friendly Ari joint was made to resemble subterranean wine cellars in Italy and pours impressive, yet affordable wines. When it comes to the food, expect homemade Italian favourites with no frills — where each bite makes you wonder if you were suddenly teleported to Rome. 4 Ari Samphan 3 Alley, Bangkok 10400 02 038 5114. cantinabkk.com |
Appia
COMBINING simplicity with flawless execution, Appia shows how less indeed is more. A genuine Roman style trattoria, the chef and owner, Paolo Vitaletti, grew up as a butcher’s son, eating hearty homemade pasta, stews, and roasted meats, and now serves up dishes on Soi 31 that are as authentic as anything you’d find along the cobbled backstreets of Rome.
20/4 Soi Sukhumvit 31, Bangkok 10110
02 261 2056.
appia-bangkok.com
COMBINING simplicity with flawless execution, Appia shows how less indeed is more. A genuine Roman style trattoria, the chef and owner, Paolo Vitaletti, grew up as a butcher’s son, eating hearty homemade pasta, stews, and roasted meats, and now serves up dishes on Soi 31 that are as authentic as anything you’d find along the cobbled backstreets of Rome.
20/4 Soi Sukhumvit 31, Bangkok 10110
02 261 2056.
appia-bangkok.com
La Casa Nostra THEIR motto is pretty simple: unpretentious cuisine, effortless service and distinctive wines at affordable prices. The team behind La Casa Nostra knows what they’re doing and nails every single one of those credos. On a colder night, make sure to book a table on their dimly lit terrace. 22 Sathorn 1 Alley Yak 2 (Soi Goethe), Bangkok 10120 02 287 2402. lacasanostra-bangkok.com |
Il Bolognese INSPIRED by the laid-back eateries typical of Bologna, the pizzeria has a reputation of having one of the best pizzas in town, but you won’t find any fusion or contemporary creations here. Il Bolognese embodies its moniker by serving up the kind of simple, rustic dishes for which the city is famed. 139/3 Sathorn Soi 7, Bangkok 10120 02 286 8805. ilbolognesebangkok.com |
Enoteca TUCKED away in a small alley on Sukhumvit 27 is what is considered one of the best Italians in town. Star chef Stefano Borra left his Michelin starred restaurant in Italy and now, behind Enoteca, adds a modern touch to traditional cuisine. Fora truly remarkable experience, choose between their four (1700++ baht), five (1990++ baht) or seven course (2900++ baht) dégustation menus. Put simply, Enoteca should be on everyone’s list. Soi Sukhumvit 27, Bangkok 10110 02 258 4386. enotecabangkok.com |
Pizza Massilia THE brainchild of chef Luca Apino and restaurateur Frederic Meyer (La Bottega di Luca and Issaya Siamese Club), Pizza Massilia started as a food truck and is now a real hotspot among Bangkokians. Behind their success, a winning formula: premium ingredients, authentic preparation, reasonable prices and good service. In fact, we recommend you leave what you’re doing now and go try their burrata and Italian ham pizza, Burrata & Culatello (590++ baht). Multiple locations. Sukhumvit branch: 1/8 Klang Alley, Bangkok 10110 02 015 0297. pizzamassilia.com |
Pomodoro
WITH multiple locations around the city, Pomodoro is reinventing fast casual dining in Bangkok. Pop in for the right combination of relaxed atmosphere and professional service, and expect to find a great selection of classics, from the simple Marinara spaghetti to tasty Margherita pizzas.
Multiple locations. Sukhumvit branch: 11
Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok 10110
02 651 1322. pomodorogroup.co.th
WITH multiple locations around the city, Pomodoro is reinventing fast casual dining in Bangkok. Pop in for the right combination of relaxed atmosphere and professional service, and expect to find a great selection of classics, from the simple Marinara spaghetti to tasty Margherita pizzas.
Multiple locations. Sukhumvit branch: 11
Sukhumvit Rd, Bangkok 10110
02 651 1322. pomodorogroup.co.th
Azzurro CREATING contemporary interpretations of traditional cuisine, Azzuro is nestled down on Sukhumvit 46. With a great selection of cold cuts, an extensive wine list and a relaxed, casual vibe, it’s a great place to while away a few hours with friends. 46/2 Phum Chit Alley, Bangkok 10110 02 392 5989. azzurro46.com | Antonio’s IF you are a fan of Italian food, or you’ve just lived in Bangkok long enough, you’re probably aware of Antonio’s. Considered a piece of genuine Italian gastronomy in the city, owner Antonio Armenio will make you feel like you’re having dinner in his family’s house. 26 Sukhumvit 29 Alley, Bangkok 10110 095 110 1105. antoniosbkk.com |
Bella Napoli WHETHER you’re there for just a drink with friends, a bite to eat with family, or hosting an event, Bella Napoli’s friendly service, cosy atmosphere and great selection of classics will make for a great night out. 3/3 Sukhumvit 31, Bangkok 10110 02 259 0405. facebook.com/bellanapoli.bkk | Opus BOASTING an extensive walk-in wine cellar, Opus is a wine lover dream come true. Add that to classic Tuscan cuisine and you have a winning combination. If you find yourself on an empty stomach or longing for a glass of wine anywhere near Silom, you know where to go. 64 Pan Road, Silom, Bangkok 10500 02 637 9899. wbopus.com |
Sensi PEACEFULLY nestled away from the congested sois of Bangkok, Sensi is set in a stylish house and serves equally stunning dishes paired with great wines. The Chef’s Table, placed right in front of the kitchen, gives you a front row seat to see the chefs prepare their remarkable tasting dishes. 1040 Soi Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra 17, Bangkok 10120 02 117 1618. sensibangkok.com | Rossano’s IF you've never heard of Rossano’s, you definitely aren’t aware that you can eat a large plate of simple, incredible pasta and walk out a fuller, happier, not-much-poorer person than when you came in. The eatery is a real gem, displaying with prominence the from-the-heart style of cooking that Italy is known for. Soi 3, 167 Soi Sukhumvit 21, Bangkok 10110 02 260 1861. facebook.com/rossanosItalianRestaurant |
Rossini’s THE food at Rossini’s explains why this long-standing restaurant is still a firm favourite among Bangkokians. Executive Chef Gaetano Palumbo occasionally welcomes guest chefs, and the food remains as splendid as ever, with ingredients being flown in from all regions of Italy. Make sure to try the melt-in-your-mouth milkfed veal tortellini with ricotta truffle cream (610++ baht). Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, 250 Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok, 10110 02 649 8363. rossinisbangkok.com | Calderazzo AFTER moving from Langsuan to Soi 31 at the beginning of the year, Chef Marco’s Calderazzo continues to deliver when it comes to fresh, simple, and well-executed meals with quality ingredients. Calderazzo whips up great Southern Italy fare, comfortably paired with a great glass of red without breaking the bank. 253/2 Soi Sukhumvit 31, Bangkok 10110 094 494 995. facebook.com/CalderazzoOn31 |
L’Opéra L’OPERA was established in 1983, making it one of the first Italian restaurants on the gourmet scene of Bangkok. From the beginning, Italian food lovers in the city found both a dining experience and a meeting point at the restaurant. They have served more happy customers than they can count and show no signs of slowing down. 1040 Narathiwat Soi 17 Yak 5, Sathorn, Bangkok 10110 02 258 5606. lopera-bangkok.com | Jojo LOCATED at The St. Regis Bangkok, this chic dining venue features a distinctly modern restaurant and an intimate bar. Jojo combines tradition with innovation and focuses on slow food and seasonal produce. As they do in the homeland, end your meal with a complimentary Moka pot of caffe Italiano. The St Regis Bangkok, 159 Ratchadamri Road, Bangkok 10330 02 207 7815. marriott.com/hotels |