The Way I Want My Christmas
In need of some true Christmas spirit, Zipporah Gene heads to the Royal Orchid Sheraton, for a taste of their Christmas cheer
I’ve only recently discovered this gem, but now that I have, I’m quite evangelical about it all. On the banks of the majestic Chao Phraya river, with 4 dining options, 2 outdoor pools and a spa; can you believe that this hotel also boasts some of the best views in town. I really wish I had known about this place sooner, and saved myself the many trips to some of its more conspicuous, yet eye-waveringly costly neighbours.
I arrived one of your bog standard, run-of-the-mill afternoons. It hadn’t even reached dinner time, yet this place was already teeming with people. When you think about, it is understandable that many would want to avoid the unapologetic anarchy of the nearby areas of China town and Silom, and instead simply opt for an elegant night of relaxation; by the water’s edge.
With my half-downed cocktail in hand, I decided to head to the outside deck area.
There are very few, who would dare disagree with me when I say that, no matter how many times I see the setting sun, it always looks better by the waterside. Pinks, purples, red and deep blues, meet glistening waves of water. It is romantic, calming, beautiful and austere all in one.
Christmas and New Year’s, with all the celebrating that comes with it, always calls for fireworks, and this place, I’m told, with its unimpeded panoramic views, has some of the best in town. I hear they also have live jazz on the weekends here and when you get a glimpse of such enchanting views of the river, you’ll also agree with me in saying that this is definitely the kind of place that immediately springs to mind when you think of live music. I can easily picture myself on the most romantic of dates, being serenaded by the sweet sounds of an earthy saxophone or even a cello.
Christmas is just around the corner, and let’s face it, we’re spoilt for choice in this town. Yet very few places can boast of having an authentic vibe about it like this place can; that true Christmas spirit which many of us, so far from home, yearn for. It is as elusive as it is tricky, but with an Executive Chef like Gunter Angermann, you’re sure to get exactly that. The turkey was beautiful.
In the search for that perfect basted look, many neglect the not-so-simple fact that turkey is an unforgiving bird. Too much heat and you’ll get something akin to cardboard, too little and you might as well have not even bothered. It is a true tour de force to get a beautiful but great tasting fowl.
Bearing that in mind, I gladly own up to the fact that Chef Angermann’s traditional German approach makes this the best tasting turkey I have ever tasted. Trying my hardest to to look demure, I helped myself to helping after helping, but all I could think of was the fact that I hope my grandmother doesn’t find out how more I liked his recipe better.
The entire Christmas spread reminded me of all that I’d be missing back home. The all-round festive cheer felt so familiar, the food so beautifully prepared, what more could anyone ask for.
Well, I’m a sweet tooth, so it really did tickle me pink to see that they had a cake bar, which included the likes of my all-time kryptonite - stollen. For those with more self control than I ever had, and who can resist the call of such hearty food, there was also a generous array of international dishes available. Everything from sushi, to curries, to cold cuts, to soups; I doubt there’ll be something you’ll be unable to find something to suit your appetite.
I can’t remember how many serving I had, but let’s just say that I was the stuffed bird by the end of the evening.
What’s in store Christmas Eve:
On Thursday December 24, 2015, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM is all altogether exciting affair. Santa and carol singers will be there, plus a vast Christmas Eve buffet featuring Chef Gunter’s family favourites, as well as an array of Thai and international dishes. All for only Bt2,700 nett per person.
Christmas Day: On Friday December 25, 2015, there will be a Santa Clause, magic shows, music and so much more - a Christmassy extravaganza. The whole day will be a jam-packed fun filled affair and will include many Christmas favourites, an international feast, and even a BBQ buffet.
Christmas Brunch from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM for Bt3,200 nett per person and Christmas dinner at Bt1,800 net per person.