Thursday, March 12, 2020

DINING ON THE WATER

Take the delectable feast to the waters
SAFFRONCRUISE BY BANYAN TREE, BANGKOK
If you are a food and culture aficionado this river boat cruise appreciating Thailand’s creative legacy and the eternal magnificence of the Chao Phraya River is for you. The Saffron cruiser is contemporary and lustrous in the flair of a yacht rather than the typical transformed rice barges. The al fresco Moon Deck where one is welcomed with a cocktail echoes the Banyan Tree Hotel’s iconic Moon Bar at Vertigo, its signature circular bar lit in blue taking midpoint. Guests can opt to enjoy their meal here or in the lower deck dining area which is air conditioned, softly lit with wrap-around glass both overhead and to the side to get panoramic views of the river’s sights counting the Temple of Dawn and The Grand Palace. Traditional Thai dishes that are skilfully prepared and ingeniously presented. Additionally there is live entertainment and cultural performance.  All in all, the experience celebrates Thailand’s rich cultural heritage like none other in total panache.
BERT'SBAR AND BRASSERIE AT NEWPORT, AUSTRALIA
With The Newport’s littoral setting and gorgeous views that have been drawing locals since the 1880’s, Bert’s is evocative of the grand hotel dining of the 1930’s bringing a touch of glamour to the beaches while still retaining that local Aussie charm. As you expeditiously take off from Rose Bay Seaplane Base, you can’t help being in awe at the striking views over Sydney Harbour. The seaplane pilot travels up across Sydney’s gorgeous Northern beaches before alighting at Pittwater where a water taxi awaits to transfer guests to Newport where Bert’s is located. Enjoy a glass of champagne before gorging on decadent food focusing on fresh seasonal Australian produce. And of course you head back the same way you came.
BODUMAS ATMOVENPICK KUREDHIVARU, MALDIVES
The appeal of beachside dining and the embrace of calm Indian Ocean breeze encounter up at this romantic overwater restaurant in the Maldives. Set an on overwater marquee at the Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru posing spectacular views of the ocean and the beach, Bodumas is the go-to place to get lost in the pulsing thumping of waves, while the sun falls behind the horizon – perfect for a dreamy and cherished dinner over outstanding service. Seafood seasoned with global influences, contribute to the great experience.
Located on the water in a notable landmark building overlooking San Francisco Bay at the end of Pier 47 since 1965, Scoma offers diners quixotic views while serving excellent fresh in season seafood with an Italian accent. The ambiance is welcoming and old school, thanks to it being in a working 46-foot fishing boat. Pacific seafood served here is caught on small boats, and brought to the pier by local fishermen; Scoma has a detached building for treating fresh fish. The velvety clam chowder, speckled with bacon, could be a meal in itself. But the most famous dish is the petit combination Louis, a smaller version of their classic with both shrimp and the Dungeness crab. Remember to ask for a bib!
NOMA,COPENHAGEN
Positioned on a small lake just freestanding the centre of Copenhagen, Noma’s new location was previously an ammunition room facility for the Danish military. Planned by celebrated architect Bjarke Ingels, the spot's 11 buildings stretch over 60 metres from end to end, and are intended to look like an Old Danish village. After being greeted by Ali Sonko and his smile, you walk down a striking flower wizened boulevard before finally entering the restaurant. Michelin star Chef Rene Redzepi is only too mindful of the latent of his land and with inordinate proficiency amalgams them into a symphonic perfection into menus that vary according to the season.
My friend Mohit at Noma, Pic Courtesy Giuseppe

First published in ET Panache Travel