The buzz: After years putting on lavish dinner parties for friends, Arnuphap Ungkhajornkul, has decided to merge his two passions: Northeastern food and fine wine into this classy eatery. At last, a place to enjoy traditional homemade Isaan sausage and somtam while sipping chardonnay.
The decor: The eclectic vintage furniture, Sino-Portuguese tiles, a classic chandelier and dimly lit ambience mean you could be forgiven for expecting to enjoy fine French dishes rather than Northeastern fare. Entering the lounge, you’ll find an elegant, yet casual, space with a diverse selection of sofas, chairs and tables spread around a white grand piano. The alfresco area is more laid-back with simple wooden dining sets surrounding a white roman fountain. Chill-out tunes complement the high-end ambience.
The cuisine: Northeastern Thai food paired with selective wines. The Isaan dishes are derived from Arnuphap’s mother’s cookbook and his own culinary experiments. Recommendations include the homemade Isaan sausage, which is actually a small chunk of sour sausage meat without casing, and the somtam poo mah. Other favorites are the deep-fried chicken with herbs and Spanish chili seafood fried rice. Ask the cook to complete your meal with a choice of flambéd desserts prepared at your table. All this is, of course designed to go with a glass of wine (house wine).
The crowd: Hisos from the neighborhood, and those who share the same passions.