We encountered a hidden treasure during a visit to the 4 star Siam Bayview Hotel on Beach Road. The big surprise was discovering the Garden Terrace Cafe, one of the hotel’s signature restaurants.  Indeed, it was a revelation to find out about this jewel of a hotel because on first impressions it seems mysteriously remote, hidden away from both entrances on Second Road and Beach Road.    About to undergo a major makeover, this boutique hotel is a haven of peace and tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of nearby Beach Road, and offers tennis courts, massage pavilions, bars, games room, fitness centre, business centre, gift shops and swimming   pools.  Indeed, the Garden Terrace Cafe, which is open 24 hours a day, is located next to the main pool.

Under the guidance and expertise of newly appointed Executive Assistant Manager, Jason Villarino, the Garden Terrace Cafe boasts an exciting menu with dishes that encompass a fusion of Western and Asian cuisine.   Besides an array of tempting Light Meals and Vegetarian offerings (most under 200 baht) one can tour the world with dishes from “A Journey to China”, such as a selection of Dim Sum Dumplings (155 baht) to Sweet and Sour Sea Bass (295 baht).  Or try “A Taste of Japan” with California Rolls (195 baht) or Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura (275 baht).  Go on “A Passage to India” and enjoy one of the aromatic Curries such as Chicken Tikka (295 baht) or Prawn Masala (415 baht).   Pasta and Pizza are aplenty from the “Little Italy” section of the menu, with Spaghetti Napoli (with sundried Tomatoes) at 225 baht and Pizza Prosciutto (Ham) at 295 baht.   There is also a wide choice of Fish and Seafood dishes including traditional English style Fish and Chips at 295 baht.  For meat eaters, enjoy New Zealand cuts of prime Beef and Lamb, such as Fillet Mignon (495 baht) or Lamb Chops (575 baht) to go for a splendiferous Chateaubriand feast for two at 995 baht.

We were invited to try the promotion for May and June, with new recipes specially created by the executive chefs.  The meal began with the latest colourful Cocktail (Chom Talay) and Mocktail (Lychee Mint) offerings of the month; both perfectly blended with the correct balance of sweetness, resulting in two very refreshing drinks.  

The first dish was slices of grilled Chicken Breast, which had been marinated in Thai Herbs, and accompanied with steamed Rice and Somtam – the very popular spicy Papaya Salad. This was followed by a fish creation of poached Lemongrass crusted New Zealand Salmon Steak; a prime center cut of boneless Salmon, which went very well with a tasty creamy Thai Herb Sauce, fried Curried Rice and assorted Asian Vegetables.   The meal ended with a dessert offering of sweet poached Pear served in two styles – with a Roast Almond Cream Sauce and the other half covered with slivered toasted Almonds and Candied Fruit.   So come along and discover for yourself some of the delights on offer 24 hours at the Garden Terrace Cafe.

Open (24 hours) every day. Prices quoted do not include taxes.  Telephone: 038 423 877 (extension 533).