Villa Frantzen, the newest outpost from three-star Michelin chef Bjorn Frantzen, opened in Bangkok last week and immediately drummed up interest among Bangkok’s foodies.
The restaurant took over the space of a two-story shophouse on Soi Yen Akat and converted it into a Nordic-style villa, complete with a lush garden and a little corner staff joked could be used as a proposal nook.
Villa Frantzen: Nordic-meets-Asian cuisine with 3 Michelin stars coming to Bangkok
Stepping inside, diners are greeted by a massive open kitchen full of staff working their magic – arguably the largest one to be found in Bangkok’s fine-dining scene. For those who want a little more privacy, there are three private dining rooms upstairs, with the added benefit of a balcony view.
Though Frantzen isn’t physically here himself, the food is helmed by head chef Martin Enstrom. His five-course tasting menu (THB3,500) sees modern Nordic cuisine given a touch of Asian influence. Each course features three options, allowing guests to curate their dining experience. For non-meat eaters, there’s a vegetarian option.
On our last visit, we didn’t try the full course experience but indulged in samples. First was Oyster 63.4C, Frantzén’s signature poached oyster with spicy pumpkin and sea buckthorn oil with a nutty taste that went well with the smoked cream sauce. The Cabbage Consommé & Hearts of Palm, meanwhile, had a decidedly Japanese aura, seeing a crunch of palm hearts swimming with myoga ginger and spring onions – something one could happily sip all day.
Sitting next to the restaurant is another villa the Frantzen crew dedicated to cocktails. The space sports a more casual vibe and requires no prior bookings. The drinks here take a nod from Nordic cuisine with Asian ingredients.
The Chlorophyll Highball (THB430), for example, arrives as an unassuming translucent drink: a blend of dry gin, mezcal blanco, sea buckthorn water, and pear shrub. Sipping the floating green drops, however, will amaze with gas-infused sichuan mala. The Berries and Cream (THB420) is a red-berry cordial, violette, and verjus topped with cream cheese and egg white – a dessert in a glass to satisfy any sweet tooth.
The restaurant can be booked online.
Villa Frantzen is located in Soi Yen Akat 3 and is open 5:30pm to 10pm every day.
