Set in the Dream Hotel, Flava is all about creating an image of exclusivity. But with soaring prices come high standards, and Flava doesn’t always hit the mark. Overpriced food and a décor that leaves you dizzy isn’t anyone’s idea of great dining and, despite quality ingredients and great service, Flava tends to step way over the line between fine dining and plain showing off. The first warning signs come from the confused (and confusing) décor. Every pattern under the sun seems to be included, with circular disks as the ceiling motif, squares on one wall, stripes on another, and a whole spectrum of colors thrown in for good measure—we have to say we just don’t get it. While the service is very friendly and professional, their recommendations tend to stick to their simplest dishes. We took their advice thinking Flava might be as “creative” with their food as they are with their décor—but it’s not the case. Besides inventive presentation, most dishes demonstrate little originality in terms of taste. The “popular” Khao Phad Dream is a failure. Cooked with carrots and peas, this simple dish at a hiso price did not measure up in flavor. We know plenty of places to get tastier fried rice for a lot less money. The salads, which cost the same as mains, don’t measure up either. Their Caesar salad is overpowered by the smell and taste of the anchovies. The Florida Bowl has quality ingredients, such as plump avocados, generous portions of buffalo mozzarella and a zesty vinaigrette, but doesn’t warrant the hefty price tag. However, we would come back for the Tasmanian salmon steak stuffed with spinach and crab meat. The fish is cooked to perfection and the combo of fresh veggies and crab is pure bliss. Don’t expect value for money at Flava. Its style is so loud, it is meant to drown out the lack of substance. But isn’t that precisely what some of Dream’s patron’s wish for? Corkage B700.
