DINING REDEFINED
Having weathered the storm caused by the recent citywide shutdown, the MANDARIN ORIENTAL, BANGKOK hotel is ready to welcome back fine dining lovers with a series of specials offering gourmet indulgence in a private, worry-free setting
SINCE IT FIRST opened its doors asthe Oriental hotel way back in 1876, the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has established itself as the epitome of luxury and oldworld sophistication in heart of thethai capital. Globally recognised as one of the best hotels in the world, it’s famed for its excellent facilities, legendary service, and its magnificent fine dining restaurants.
This venerable grand dame of Bangkok’s hospitality scene recently underwent an impressive USD$90 million restoration, and in late 2019 the hotel celebrated the unveiling of its majestic makeover in suitably spectacular fashion. Unfortunately, when the Covid-19 lockdown began in earnest in early 2020 everything went under wraps yet again, much to the dismay of Bangkok’s high society elite who in that brief time had barely been given a chance to properly enjoy the new look.
Fast-forward a few months, and – as of July 3rd – the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok has once again reopened its doors. And to celebrate this “second coming” they are welcoming back fine dining lovers with an incredible ‘In-suite Dining Experience’ that redefines top-tier gastronomic indulgence.
Understandably, the health and safety of guests has always been amongst the hotel’s highest priorities, but as part of the post-pandemic “new normal” an even higher standard of precautionary measures and cleanliness is being implemented throughout the property. The goal is to satisfy customers who crave social interaction along with a worry-free dining-out atmosphere, which is why these delightful new culinary journeys are being staged in the privacy of the hotel’s gorgeously appointed private suites.
The grandest of these gourmet experiences are the six and eight-course degustation dinner menus (THB 6,100++ per person, and THB 7,200++ per person, respectively) prepared by chef Arnaud Dunand Sauthier from the hotel’s two Michelin-starred Le Normandie French restaurant. The attentive and personalised service from Le Normandie’s expert service team makes the evening feel like a true restaurant experience, even though these multicourse meals are being served in one of the suitably named Chao Phraya Suites, complete with a spacious balcony overlooking the Chao Phraya River.
The night out begins with a pre-dinner drink at the lounge area, where floor-to-ceiling glass windows offer breathtaking sunset views. Prior to guests relocating to the assigned suite, the room’s interior – including the in-suite bathroom – is thoroughly sanitised and fully set up to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance. As for the artfully prepared menu, highlights include a sumptuous potato and caviar dish with sea urchin, and the chef’s signature Mediterranean carabineros prawn with beetroot and green mango. The fine dining atmosphere is further enhanced by tasteful details such as the sommelier standing by in the suite to assist with wine pairing.
This bespoke gourmet experience is available for groups of two to six diners per suite, making it perfect for either a cosy romantic dinner, or an intimate family celebration. Bookings can be made from Monday to Saturday, but keep in mind that reservations do require 24 hours advance notice.
In tandem with chef Arnaud’s degustation menus, the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok also offers the same approach to private dining for guests wanting to indulge in an all-you-can-eat meal from the awardwinning Lord Jim’s restaurant. Available Tuesday to Sunday for both lunch and dinner (starting from THB 1,500++ per person), these à la carte feasts make use of the hotel’s newly renovated one-bedroom suites and can cater to a maximum of four diners from same party. The extensive menu selection showcases all of
Lord Jim’s most popular dishes, including the famous seafood tower, flavoursome salt-baked seabass, decadent pan-fried foie gras, and the Australian Wagyu steak for two.
Finally, when it comes to whiling away an afternoon in style with a few close friends, the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok’s elegant Afternoon Tea experience (THB 2,200++ per person) is unparalleled. And to ensure that extra level of safety and exclusivity, this lavish tea set – which includes champagne – can now be enjoyed in the captivating dining room of the hotel’s Royal Suite when booked for groups of eight persons. Or, for a group of six, this one-of-a-kind, insuite tea experience will usher guests into the wellappointed living room of The Ambassador Suite.
As Bangkok – and the world – slowly recovers from the overwhelming disruption caused by the Coronavirus, it’s reassuring to know that places like the Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok are still around to give us a taste of the way things used to be. And while the hotel and its expertly trained staff are doing everything they can to ensure your continued enjoyment, it’s worth remembering that impeccable and attentive service has always been the hallmark of the Oriental brand.
Tel: +66(0)2 659 9000 / Email: mobkk-restaurants@ mohg.com / mandarinoriental.com/bangkok