The shared history between Thailand and Italy is a deep one, that may have started long before there was even a ‘Thailand’ or ‘Italy’ as we know it today. In 1430, Niccolò de' Conti, a Venetian trader was recorded as the first European to visit Tenasserim, at the time a province of Siam. Through the years, many prominent Italians would make their way to Thailand, bringing with them their culture, art and especially food. According to Michele Tomea, secretary general of the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce, there are currently around 1,000 Italian restaurants in Thailand, 200 of them in Bangkok alone. With so much variety, it can be difficult to make a selection.
Here are the best Italian spots that have achieved the distinctions of MICHELIN Plate, with exclusive Citi credit card offers to match.
Biscotti (Anantara Siam) (MICHELIN Plate)
This Bangkok mainstay has been a favourite spot for authentic Italian dishes since 1998. Today, Chef de Cuisine Andrea Buson presents dishes with a homemade touch taking inspiration from his childhood in the historic city of Venice. Biscotti features a well-rounded a la carte menu, as well as a popular business lunch menu during weekdays.
Enoteca (MICHELIN Plate)
Although located in the city’s business district, Enoteca remains a peaceful oasis with its manicured gardens and calming interiors. The menu is filled with delightfully modern dishes that are a feast for both the eyes and palate, such as the Onion Cooked in Salt Filled with Braised Quails. And, with over 400 wines available, there is a perfect pairing for whatever you choose.
Theo Mio (MICHELIN Plate)
Created with famed Italian Chef Theo Randall, Theo Mio at the InterContinental Bangkok presents authentic Italian cuisine that changes with the season. Guests will enjoy seeing their food prepared in the open kitchen, as well as being able to taste a range of imported Italian ingredients.
La Dotta (MICHELIN Plate)
There are times when you must go to a specialist, and when it comes to pasta, La Dotta is your answer. This pasta bar focuses on creating handcrafted fresh pasta the way it's done in Bologna with dishes like Tagliatelle Bolognese. Pasta is made fresh every morning using 100% natural Italian flour and organic duck eggs.
Lenzi Tuscan Kitchen (MICHELIN Plate)
Lenzi Tuscan Kitchen bases its dishes from Chef Francesco Lenzi’s origins in Pisa. Plates focus on Tuscan cuisine. Rich and hearty, the dishes here are also good for you, as the Chef is known for researching and using healthier ingredients like the best extra virgin olive oil.
Pizza Massilia (Sukhumvit 49) (MICHELIN Plate)
Pizza may be one of the most popular Italian culinary imports, but authentic gourmet Pizza is a unique experience in itself. At Pizza Massilia, things start with the basics, from stone-ground organic Italian flour for their dough to authentic San Marzano tomatoes used in their sauce. Diners can choose between traditional or modern-creative toppings for that perfect slice of paradise.
Rossini's (MICHELIN Plate)
Designed to invoke the feeling of a Tuscan villa, Rossini’s has long been known as a favourite Italian spot for Bangkokians. Located in the Sheraton Grande, the menu here is extensive, covering many key parts of Italy. Chef Gaetano Palumbo, who hails from Sicily, has also designed an inventive Chef’s menu that mixes tradition with modernity.
For more information on the dining privileges that Citi credit card members can receive at these venues, visit www.citibank.co.th
