It’s dinner and a show!
By Aiden Jewelle Gonzales
Despite being an incorrigible city slicker, while in Bangkok, I often miss the sprawling resorts and cloistered embrace of more remote locations by the beachside, or up in the cascading hills up North. Fortunately, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort, nestled by the River of Kings, is a property that provides that experience without having to leave the convenience of the concrete jungle. With a range of F&B options spanning cuisines from around the world, gardens of lush verdure, and classic Thai elegance wherever you go, the resort is an ideal place for a staycation or even just an evening where you can forget your worries and while away time by the river.
Riverside Terrace, one of the resort’s riverside restaurants, which offers an international barbecue and seafood buffet, is one such option if you’re looking for an indulgent and convivial evening of delectable food in generous portions, and great entertainment.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Taking up a deceptively large space right on the edge of the river, much of the restaurant sits under a capacious white marquee (much appreciated during this monsoon season), with charming paper lanterns bathing the space in a warm glow, and a stage in pride of place that can be easily seen wherever you’re seated. We arrived just as the nightly performances were starting, and while the aromas of freshly-cooked barbecued meats and seafood were tempting, we couldn’t take our eyes off the spectacle unfolding in front of us. From graceful dancers in different traditional Thai attire, to exhilarating fire shows, and even a fashion show, this part of the evening is definitely one not to be missed, so make sure you arrive before 7pm.
FOOD AND DRINK
Open from Tuesdays to Sundays, Riverside Terrace’s international buffet costs THB 1,999 net per person, and is inclusive of free- flow soft drinks. With an array of live stations and a cornucopia of options spanning fresh seafood, Japanese delights, classic Thai dishes, heartwarming Indian favourites, fresh pastas, Chinese bites, and of course, slow-cooked barbecued dishes; it was hard to know where to start.
We began by tucking into their fresh seafood on ice to start us off. From blue swimmer crabs to chilled white prawns, and New Zealand mussels, the selection was exceptional and impressive, but what we most enjoyed were the Fine de Claire oysters, shucked tableside – my colleague tried them for the first time and found them to be an addictive revelation. Of course, one can’t have sashimi without thinking of Japanese cuisine, and their Japanese seafood section didn’t disappoint. With a choice of assorted melt-in-your-mouth California rolls, sushi, and sashimi, made with premium tuna, salmon, and more; replete with all the expected fixings; you’re spoiled for choice.
For those who prefer their seafood cooked, head to the Live seafood bbq station where you’re treated to a selection of succulent river prawns, slipper lobster, squid, seabass, and plenty more, all with your condiments of choice. The barbecue options don’t stop at seafood, and their From the smoke pits live station features all your delectable meats of choice, including beef and pork ribs, artisanal sausages, and free-range chicken.
I’m someone who thinks a day is incomplete without some ahaan Thai, and if you’re like me, you’re in luck as the buffet has an entire smorgasbord of familiar Thai dishes. Head over to their Phad Thai live station or their Thai seafood salad station, which is replete with refreshing dishes such as Pomelo salad, Banana flower salad with chilli paste and shrimp, and of course, Papaya salad with shrimp and salted eggs. If you’re a fan of kuay tiew, the Noodle live station will be your spot, while each day brings a rotation of Thai favourites such as Masaman beef curry or Stir-fried chicken with cashew nuts.
On the other hand, if you need some Indian comfort food at every meal, the buffet also has a Smoky tandoori section with your fill of dishes such as Chicken tandoori, Daal makhani, Butter chicken, and more. I would also suggest checking out the From the Chinese smoked oven section, which has Roasted crispy pork belly with that perfect crunch, flavourful Roasted duck with condiments, barbecued pork loin, and of course, a selection of dim sums that I ate far too much of.
If you still have room in your stomach, there is a Live pasta station with your choice of pasta and classic sauces such as Carbonara and Beef Bolognese, filling and delicious; as well as a charcuterie and cheese selection to end your indulgent meal. I maintain that dessert is a completely separate stomach, so make sure you also sample the assorted Thai khanoms and cakes, as well as their churros and – especially delightful – their tableside trolley of nitrogen coconut ice cream, served with traditional Thai condiments. If you can’t eat anymore, just feast with your eyes as there is a Thai dessert demonstrationperformed by staff in traditional Thai dress. Truly a night to remember under the stars.
MASALA RECOMMENDS
Any of their Slow-cooked bbq delights, but especially their Wagyu beef and Kurobuta pork straight from the smoke pit. Juicy, cooked to perfection, and imbued with that moreish smoky flavour grill lovers will love, they’re sure to keep you going back for more.
RIVERSIDE TERRACE
Ground Floor, Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort 257/1-3 Charoennakorn Road, Thonburi, Bangkok 10600
Open Tuesdays to Sundays 6pm to 10pm
Tel: 02 431 9486
Facebook: @riversideterracebangkok
www.anantara.com/en/riverside-bangkok
