Review

Villa Frantzen opened in 2022 as the first Thailand outpost from globally renowned culinary genius Björn Frantzen. Nestled in a stunning villa, the restaurant has quickly established its place, cultivating a loyal following. Much of this success can be credited to the leadership of Chef Nilas Corneliussen in the kitchen and Apichaya Leewattanaporn in front of house. The menu highlights the finest of Nordic cuisine, with subtle Asian influences woven throughout. Dishes change with the seasons, though the restaurant's signature offerings remain constant. A visit to the adjacent bar is a must, where guests can enjoy a perfectly chilled glass of champagne, accompanied by a distinctive brioche filled with Vendace roe from Kalix. The dining room, with its open kitchen, is both impressive and inviting, while the conservatory provides a tranquil setting, overlooking the lush gardens. Menu highlights include veal carpaccio with bacon dashi, yuzu kosho aioli, and Parmigiano Reggiano, alongside a sublime cauliflower chawanmushi with morels, yeasted mushroom tea, and toasted hay oil. Diners can choose from two-course options, offering variety at this level of fine dining. Standouts such as baked turbot and poached cod shine, while main courses like braised pork cheek and grilled dry-aged duck are executed flawlessly. For dessert, consider indulging in salted clove fudge or lingonberry with licorice. Wine and soft pairings are highly recommended, and the wine list is full of hidden gems, perfectly complementing the bold flavours of the menu.