Praya Palazzo, Bangkok, Thailand

The dinner at Praya Palazzo, Bangkok, on 29 Aug 2019 was themed Redefine Memory. This is an apt theme as it brings back memories of this reviewer's first visit to this venue in 2011. New owner, new chef, new and improved tastes. Memory was indeed redefined.

Architecturally, the new owner - Montara Hospitality Group - preserved much of the original because it is a historic building constructed in 1923 as a residence for Col. Praya Chollabhumipanich. There were subtle but important improvements such as paving the grass lawn and expanding the pool deck to ensure sufficient space for up to 150 guests for standing cocktail reception. The guests can enjoy views of the Chao Phraya River whilst sipping refreshing drinks at the Pool Bar. 

Internally, the Rom Pho room was cleverly expanded by moving two side walls further to the left and right, and thus creating space for meetings of up to 50 people. A new golden-leaves lighting installation replaced the old-fashioned chandelier to give the room a modern feel. The Praya Dining room was preserved in its original form, and is the main dining hall for up to 50 guests in banquet seating style. 

Food-wise, the taste and presentation of the dishes have improved a lot since Praya Palazzo’s last reincarnation in 2011. According to its CEO, Mr Kittisak Pattamasaevi, a team from the Group's Michelin-Star restaurant PRU in Phuket had lend a hand in creating Praya Palazzo’s menu. On the day of this review, the menu was specially curated, with the organiser’s input, to suit the theme of the dinner, accompanied by wine-pairing for each dish. It demonstrated the restaurant’s ability to deliver luxury dining experience in terms of service, food presentations and flavour.

Praya Palazzo is also a boutique hotel with just 15 rooms, which will be going through upgrading soon.

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This review was conducted as part of the 2019 international media familiarisation trip programme organised by TCEB.