CLARA
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Applauded pop-up restaurant “Waiting For CLARA” served as an amuse-bouche to “CLARA”, a celebration of modern Italian cuisine, opening this month in Bangkok, Yen Akart.6 years after giving birth to the Italian sensation, Sensi, Chef Christian Martena and Maitre D’ Clara Del Corso-Martena have put their hearts into a new culinary venture.While in the heart of Sathorn district, “CLARA” is tucked away in peaceful Yen Akart residential area. Formerly known as Villa Yenakart exhibition hall, the Bauhaus-style villa is staying true to its arty roots. The five-meter-high walls serve as the backdrop for the paintings and charcoal drawings of Somboon Hormtientong, well-recognized abstract Thai artist who represented Thailand at Venice Biennale. The floor-to-ceiling windows open to a lush garden, planted with VAL’s monumental and lean sculptures. When the sun sets, Matteo Massevry’s warm and expert lighting breathes life into the whitewashed villa’s façade and surrounding greeneries for a mesmerizing entrance.The remarkable space caters for multiple sitting options, suiting all occasions and moods: For an intimate encounter with the craftsmen, join one of the 10 comfy seats of the Chef’s Table, designed by acclaimed designer P. Tendercool and uniquely tattooed by Tantai, a renewed Thai tattoo artist; or perch yourself on the high chairs at the designer’s kitchen counter to feel part of the orchestrated action. Gaze at the leafy scenery from the main dining room crowned by Massevry’s sculpture of lights; or walk up to the semi-private mezzanine for a secluded bird-eye view. After diner, cosy up into P. Tendercool garden lounge for a selection of liquors and cigars.From his open-style kitchen, Chef Martena will ravish your palate with a degustation menu, taking you on a culinary journey in seven chapters. Chef Martena blends his native cuisine with creative and modern techniques using high-quality local produces alongside carefully selected and premium European imports. Chef in seven steps.In the past few years, the duo went on a regional tour to soak up some new flavours, techniques and inspirations. They first re-opened the kitchens of the iconic Strand in Yangon, Myanmar. Then, Chef Martena joined Six Senses Koh Samui as Executive Chef and honed up his skills at sustainable fine dining.The symbiotic couple is sticking to its winning recipe: heartfelt welcomes, genuine hospitality and simple elegance of Clara woven with the palatable passion of Chef Martena’s mastered craft.More than an ode to Italian savours, “CLARA” is a tribute to Chef Martena’s beloved wife, best friend and business partner, gracefully working her magic at the tables and sharing their common passion for fine cuisine with a deep sense of humanity.The soft opening 9-courses degustation menu is at 2 580 THB++ (serving both fish and meat) and the 7-courses at 2 280 THB++ (with a selection of fish or meat). The menus may be combined with a half or full wine pairing. A comprehensive wine list and wine by the glass are also available.Ample car park spaces and valet parking are available and makes it a convenient hideaway.CLARA opens from Monday to Saturday from 6PM to midnight on 69, soi Prasak Suk. For reservation and further information, visit www.clarabangkok.com or @clarabangkok on Facebook or call +66(0) 9 5879 6257.
