CLARA Bangkok Autumn Edition Review – Thailand’s Best Italian Restaurant
CLARA, a recipient of prestigious awards including the Michelin award, ranks among Bangkok’s top 5 Italian fine-dining establishments. Moreover, it has garnered global recognition as the 21st best Italian restaurant worldwide.
We recently revisited CLARA to celebrate my wife’s belated birthday and enjoy a romantic weekend getaway without the kids.
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We had dined at CLARA before, but this time, we were eager to savor the seasonal Autumn specials by Christian Martena, aptly named “Once Upon A Time In Italy Menu Chapter IX.”
The culinary journey comprised seven delightful courses, each named after and inspired by different regions: MARCHE, ABRUZZO, TOSCANA, PIEMONTE, VENETO, LOMBARDIA, and SICILIA.
Our evening begins with Champagne Blanc de Blancs to set the tone for a delightful night, providing the perfect start to shake off the stresses of a long day at work.
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MARCHE – Wild Mushroom – River Prawn; Chestnut – Venison; Pecorino Cheese – Hay, pairing with Champagne Bérêche et Fils – Brut Reserve NV
This dish is undeniably remarkable, evoking awe through its inventive concept, drawing inspiration from the enchanting forests of the Marche region. I must say, this culinary creation is a work of art. The chef’s meticulous craftsmanship makes each element of the dish appear astonishingly lifelike, from the wide mushroom resembling a “toxic mushroom” to the log and hay. With every bite, it imparts a vibrant and joyous burst of flavor, seamlessly harmonizing with the autumnal camping atmosphere.
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ABRUZZO – Cuttlefish – Porcini – Saffron paring with Collio DOC Ronco Delle Mele Sauvignon Venica & Venica 2022
Starred dishes, presenting two dishes simultaneously is a fantastic way to ignite our taste buds, much like when the mountains and the ocean come together. It’s challenging to put into words, but it certainly brings a delightful surprise.
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TOSCANA – Ribollita – Foie Gras – Lardo Di Calonnata paring with Envinate Taganan Parcela Margalagua 2019
Toscana” is a soup dish inspired by the traditional farm soup known as Ribollita. It features cabbage grilled with barbecue-stuffed white beef and fried Foie Gras. I proceeded to layer it atop Tuscan bread, crowned with Lardo Di Colonata. I must confess that my initial expectations were modest when I first laid eyes on this dish. However, the moment it touched my palate, my senses awakened, and I found myself unable to stop indulging in its exceptional flavors.
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PIEMONTE – Egg Yolk Pasta – Hazelnut – Castelmagno – Black Truffle paring with Barbera d’Alba Mara Dante Rivetti 2021
This dish is a unique creation, featuring ravioli made solely from egg yolk, without any flour or water, and elegantly garnished with black truffle and Castelmagno cheese. While the portion may appear small, its impact is truly remarkable. The combination of creaminess, the rich aroma of black truffle, and the indulgent Castelmagno cheese leaves a lasting memory, making it a culinary experience to savor and cherish.
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VENETO- Pigeon – White Polenta – Radicchio – Onion paring with Valpolicella Ripasso Monte Dall’Ora Sausto 2018
A dish that combines the aspect of sweetness, sourness, bitterness from the Pigeon’s meat and leg that are recommended to be enjoyed with bare hands. The dish has the White Polenta mixed in the middle of the dish with Radicchio and Onion.
LOMBARDIA – Gorgonzola – Apple – Lapsang Soushong Tea
Lombardia is a served in a Wine Glass that consists layers from bottom to top follows; apple cream, scrambled bread, cheese, marinated apple and Lapsang Soushong Tea at the top.
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SICILIA – Jerusalem Artichoke – Spelt – Pomegranate paring with Coteaux du Layon Pierre Bise 1998
This dish serves as a fantastic conclusion to the meal. Chef Christian‘s preparation is quite exceptional, and it’s not often that you encounter Jerusalem Artichoke in a dessert. It’s served with a pomegranate sauce and a side of refreshing home-made ice cream is a delightful surprise at the meal’s conclusion.
Our visit here made us feel right at home. This place exudes a warm and cozy ambiance without being overly formal. The welcoming atmosphere, delectable cuisine, and authentic hospitality strike a perfect balance, offering just the right amount of comfort and charm.
In concluding our evening, I’d like to express that this venue is an ideal setting to partake in exquisite dining, relish fine wines, and immerse oneself in the realm of art, all while celebrating the spirit of the moment.
Located in the tranquil Yen Akart/Prasertsuk residential area, CLARA offers a peaceful escape from the bustling Sathorn district. The upper floor is particularly noteworthy, as it’s perfect for hosting private parties and events. The space caters to all occasions and moods, with various seating options available, including a private mezzanine and Chef’s Table.
CLARA – Phone: 083 496 3663
Address: 69 Soi Prasansook, Chong Nonsi, Yan Nawa, Bangkok
