Protected: The Smokaccia Laboratory – A Bold Culinary Vision Reimagining Italian Tradition
Month: May 2025
Scala Pasta/Bar: Where Elegant Ambience Meets Italian Artistry
Nestled in a stylish corner of the city of Cape Town, Scala Pasta/Bar invites guests into a warm and intimate atmosphere where soft mood lighting and tasteful décor create the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening or a refined night out. The space balances sophistication with comfort, setting the tone for an experience that delights both the eyes and the palate.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the General Manager and the Executive Chef, both of whom added a personal touch to the evening with their passion and enthusiasm. The attentive staff ensured our every need was met, adding a gracious and polished touch to the experience.
Our evening began with a delicate amuse-bouche – a crispy mac & cheese ball served with a luxurious truffle sauce. This comforting yet indulgent starter was a perfect prelude to the meal ahead, teasing the palate with its rich flavours.
Given the choice between the Summer Set menu and the à la carte, we selected the latter to fully explore some of Scala’s signature dishes. To start, the Summer Burrata Salad arrived, a harmonious medley of creamy burrata, grilled peaches, salty prosciutto, balsamic onions, crunchy croutons, and peppery wild rocket. The sweet, salty, tangy, and fresh elements danced beautifully together, each bite a carefully balanced composition.
For mains, we indulged in two standout pastas. The first was the Signature Carbonara, crafted under the guidance of Luciano Monosilio, the acclaimed King of Carbonara in Italy, who consults for Scala. His rendition honoured Roman tradition with a rich, glossy sauce that clung perfectly to the pasta, complemented by crisp guanciale.
The second was the Fettuccine Marina, featuring tender prawns, mussels, and a bright crudo relish. This dish offered a refreshing contrast, with the seafood’s natural sweetness and briny notes perfectly balanced by the zing of citrus in the relish.
As with all the pasta at Scala, both dishes were made entirely in-house and cooked to a perfect al dente.
Dessert was a celebration of textures and flavours, beginning with the Millefoglie. Sandwiched between layers of crisp pastry were silky vanilla and dark chocolate custards, crowned with candied almonds for a satisfying crunch. Our final treat was the visually stunning Scala Egg, a vanilla bean mousse encased in a glossy white chocolate glaze, paired with a vibrant caramel and passionfruit coulis that cut through the sweetness with tropical brightness.
Throughout the evening, we enjoyed expertly crafted cocktails, thoughtfully suggested by the attentive wait staff who happily tailored each drink to our preferences, enhancing the overall experience.
Scala Pasta/Bar is much more than a dining venue; it is a refined culinary journey where atmosphere, service, and expertly executed Italian cuisine come together in perfect harmony.
We left feeling truly inspired and eager to return.
Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Jade van Niekerk
To book your dining experience at Scala Pasta/Bar, visit dineplan: dineplan.com/restaurants/scala-pasta-bar
Bisou Bangkok – A French Culinary Gem
Bisou Bangkok is, without a doubt, the best French restaurant in the city. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by Louis, who was charming, attentive and whose passion for hospitality sets the tone for the entire experience. His energy and warmth made us feel like guests in a friend’s home rather than diners in a bustling restaurant.
Named after the French word for “kiss,” Bisou embraces a philosophy that is both intimate and effortlessly chic. Their slogan—“Keep it simple, sexy”—captures the essence of everything they do: confident flavors, stylish presentation, and a dining experience that feels personal and indulgent without ever being overcomplicated.
We were lucky to sit at the kitchen counter, which turned the evening into a front-row seat to a culinary performance. Watching the chefs work with such precision and care added an intimate, immersive element to the meal.
We began with a refreshing tomato carpaccio, followed by the indulgent black truffle French toast, both of which set a high bar. The freshly baked bread, came with Bisou’s imported French butter—rich, decadent, and utterly irresistible. The asparagus with hollandaise sauce was perfectly tender with a luxurious touch of creaminess.
Among the evening’s highlights, the Wagyu beef tartare deserves special mention—it was, without exaggeration, the finest tartare I have ever tasted. Perfectly seasoned, silky, and rich, it showcased the restaurant’s attention to detail and respect for ingredients.
The gnocchi with herb pesto and stracciatella was light yet comforting, a beautiful balance of flavors. The beef Wellington—elevated by the addition of foie gras—was cooked to perfection, and paired with silky mashed potatoes, it was rich, hearty, and utterly satisfying.
Dessert was a bright and elegant fresh strawberry creation, paired with a shot of Bisou’s homemade liquor, which added a fun and personal finish to the meal. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we were offered a handmade macaron—a delicate and sweet finale that perfectly encapsulated the entire experience.
Bisou Bangkok is more than just a restaurant—it’s a culinary journey guided by passion, precision, and personality. With Chef Antoine and co-owner Theo leading a team of talented chefs—and the added pleasure of watching Chef Antoine and Chef Manon in action—Bisou delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a Bangkok local or just passing through, this is a must-visit destination for French cuisine lovers.
Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens
To book your dining experience at Bisou Bangkok, visit their website: www.bisoubangkok.com
Nobu Bangkok – A Sky-High Culinary Experience of Elegance and Flavour
Perched on the 78th floor of the Empire Building, Nobu Bangkok offers a truly elevated dining experience—both literally and gastronomically. As the highest Nobu in the world, it boasts breathtaking 360-degree views of the Bangkok skyline, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. The restaurant blends contemporary Japanese cuisine with vibrant Peruvian influences, staying true to Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s globally celebrated style.
From the moment we arrived, the attention to detail and impeccable service stood out. We were warmly welcomed by Leila, the general manager, whose genuine hospitality immediately made us feel at home. Her graciousness was echoed by the entire team—attentive, polished, and thoughtful throughout the evening. A special highlight was when Chef Andrew personally came to greet us, adding an unexpected but deeply appreciated touch.
As the sun set, the skyline transformed into a sea of golden light—truly one of the most magical sunset views I’ve ever experienced. The ambience was both romantic and refined, with well-curated interiors and versatile seating options. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, private dining rooms are also available.
The drinks menu featured an array of creative cocktails and premium selections. I enjoyed Nobu’s signature lychee martini—light and refreshing. My sister had a passionfruit mocktail, which was vibrant, fruity, and expertly crafted.
The food was nothing short of spectacular, with each course thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. We enjoyed Nobu’s signature Omakase Menu, which offered a well-curated journey through the restaurant’s most iconic dishes. To begin, we were offered salted edamame alongside our drinks—a simple yet satisfying start.
For starters, we were served a sharing platter featuring a delicious variety of small bites: avocado tacos bursting with creaminess, crispy chicken wings with bold flavour, crispy rice topped with spicy king crab—a perfect blend of texture and heat—and the indulgent combination of scallop and foie gras, rich and decadent. Following that, we had the Yellowtail Jalapeño, one of Nobu’s signature dishes, and it truly lived up to the hype—delicate, fresh, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of heat.
Next came the sushi platter, which showcased tuna, red snapper, mackerel, and sea urchin. Each piece reflected Nobu’s hallmark of pristine quality and precision. It was my first time trying sea urchin, and the experience was—let’s just say—unforgettable.
The hot dishes continued to impress. The King Crab Leg with yuzu butter was soft, tender, and delicately citrusy. The famed Miso Black Cod followed, with its rich umami depth and melt-in-your-mouth texture—a dish that’s unlike anything else. And then came the showstopper: the Australian Wagyu beef tenderloin with truffle butter. Rich, perfectly cooked, and unbelievably tender, it was genuinely one of the most sensational dishes I’ve ever tasted.
To end the evening, we were presented with an exquisite dessert platter. It included a light and airy Japanese strawberry cake, mango and chocolate ice cream, and a vibrant selection of exotic fresh fruits. But the standout was the caramel miso popcorn dessert—a bold, unexpected combination that was salty, sweet, and utterly addictive. It was, without a doubt, my favourite dessert of the night.
After dinner, Leila gave us a tour of the three-level venue. The rooftop, with its live DJ and vibrant atmosphere, was a whole experience of its own. For those looking for a quieter setting, there’s also a side of the restaurant offering a more peaceful space to enjoy the dazzling city lights from one of Bangkok’s highest vantage points.
Nobu Bangkok masterfully combines exceptional cuisine, world-class service, and a breathtaking setting—making it a standout destination in the city’s luxury dining scene. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or simply seeking a memorable night out, Nobu delivers an experience that is both indulgent and unforgettable.
Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens
To book your dining experience at Nobu Bangkok, visit their website: noburestaurants.com/bangkok
Su Va Na – A Dazzling Fusion of Fine Dining and Fantasy
Su Va Na is Thailand’s only underwater restaurant and is located inside Aquaria Phuket’s state-of-the-art aquarium. It is an unforgettable dining adventure that blends exceptional food with stunning marine life, all in a breathtaking setting.
We experienced the Spring tasting menu, and from the first course to the final petit four, every dish was a celebration of creativity, flavor, and refinement. Each plate was a visual masterpiece, showcasing bold and well-balanced flavors. The restaurant also caters to various dietary preferences with non-seafood, pescatarian, vegetarian, and vegan menus, each carefully curated to deliver an equally luxurious experience.
To begin, I had their signature lychee martini—a sweet, refreshing cocktail that perfectly complemented the tropical ambiance. My sister enjoyed a shaken margarita.
Midway through our meal, Su Va Na’s signature mermaid performance began. Two professional mermaids, in flowing pink and purple tails, glided gracefully through the aquarium to the sound of two emotional songs. At the end of the performance, they held up signs to celebrate guests’ special occasions, adding a thoughtful touch. Guests were then invited to take photos with the mermaids—an Instagram-worthy moment that captures the essence of Su Va Na’s immersive charm.
Japanese Hamachi
Hua Hin caviar
Bibinca
Gambero Rosso
Kamchatka king crab
Chiang Mai Sorrel & Kefir Gelato
Mushroom Risotto with Fresh Truffle
Klong Pai Farm Raised Thai Red Label Chicken
JAPANESE WAGYU
Oscietra Prestige Caviar from Kaviari Paris
Longan Honey Madeline
Petit Fours
Beetroot
Aged Parmesan & Rose
Chena Poda
Each course was introduced in sequence, allowing us to savor every flavor and moment. Some of our favourite dishes included the Caviar Cheesecake, the Gambero Rosso pasta, and the mushroom risotto with fresh truffle. The main courses were equally impressive. The chicken was artfully presented, with a design that resembled delicate scales, and the flavours were mouthwatering. The Japanese Wagyu beef stood out for its remarkable tenderness—truly the perfect cut of meat.
To end the evening on a sweet note, a special cake was brought out for my sister’s 21st birthday, adding a heartfelt and festive touch to the celebration.
The service at Su Va Na was amazing. Our waitress, JuJu, really stood out—she was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the whole experience feel special. She walked us through each course with clear explanations and was always around when we needed her, without ever being overbearing. One thoughtful detail we appreciated: the staff carry small spotlights to help guests photograph their dishes or the underwater backdrop in perfect lighting—an elegant, guest-focused gesture that sets Su Va Na apart.
At the end of our meal, we were presented with a thank-you gift: a Polaroid photo of us taken earlier in the evening, beautifully presented with our names and the date—a meaningful memento of an unforgettable night.
We were also warmly welcomed by Mr. Dax Lee, the visionary behind Su Va Na, who personally greeted us and shared his passion for food and hospitality. His dedication to creating a truly magical and memorable dining experience is evident in every detail.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a once-in-a-lifetime dining moment, or simply indulging in luxury while in Phuket, Su Va Na is a destination that promises to enchant and impress.
Reviewed by World Luxury Awards Representative, Kayla Lourens
To book your dining experience, visit their website: www.suvanaphuket.com