Molten

Words CHUTINANTA BOONYAMARN

Comfort food classics presented with flair at Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort

OVERSEEING all of the F&B operations at the four-star Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort, Executive Chef Pattraphong ‘Tony’ Rareongjai sure is a busy man. But he’s never short of inspiration and passion for his craft.
    
There’s plenty of evidence of this at Molten, the resort’s signature all-day-dining restaurant, where he regularly introduces new and interesting dishes to the Thai and international menu without ever compromising his guiding philosophy – “to offer simple, hearty food made with high quality ingredients and presented with flair.”
    
Chef Tony’s background includes seven years working at popular grill restaurants in New York, and he was also part of the opening team of the renowned Tables restaurant at Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, so when it comes to creating comfort food classics, whether Thai or international, he’s got plenty of experience to mine for delicious results.

His Greek Salad (B160) is a highlight, featuring crisp romaine lettuce, sliced tomato, bell pepper, cucumber, oregano, green and black olives, and feta cheese drizzled with extra virgin olive oil with a squeeze of lemon. We also love the Fish & Chips (B140), a classic British dish, here featuring a wonderfully light and crispy beer batter that remains that way for the entire meal (no sogginess!); and Chicken Quesadillas (B160) which come served on a chopping board and generously loaded with cheese, tomato, spinach, jalapeño peppers and grilled chicken.

Other popular choices include the Classic Cheese Burger (B240), featuring ground beef tenderloin topped with Cheddar cheese, pickle and tomato; Grilled Sausage Platter (B290), loaded with spicy Italian sausage, bacon sausage, and bratwurst, and served with potato wedges, grilled organic veggies and red wine sauce; and, for something more local, Geang Massaman (B180), a slow braised southern curry with chicken, cinnamon and tamarind. Coconut Panna Cotta (B120), which comes with fresh berries, is a delightful way to end a meal.
    
On our last visit, Chef Tony revealed that he’s planning to make more tweaks to his menus; so don’t be surprised if you see new delicious creations on your next visit to Molten.

Mercure Pattaya Ocean Resort, 463/100, Moo 9 Pattaya Second Rd., Nhongprue Banglamung.
038 769 688 www.mercure.com