Step into the vibrant heart of Ploenchit’s bustling district and discover La Braci, a culinary gem that has just set the stage for an extraordinary dining adventure. Officially swinging its doors open on the 19th of November, 2024, La Braci sits proudly on the Secret Garden level of One City Centre, offering a fresh take on modern casual fine dining. Here, the ancient art of wood-fire smoked cooking meets contemporary elegance, making each meal an unforgettable experience.
As you enter, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of refined sophistication. The restaurant greets you with an alluring blend of natural elements and chic modern design. Warm wooden tones, understated stone accents, and brushed metal details harmonize effortlessly, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light by day. Come nightfall, diners relish in an intimate setting accentuated by the gentle glow of garden lighting.
With a seating capacity for 50, La Braci’s dining area is thoughtfully centered around a captivating open kitchen, featuring a custom-made fire pit. Flames flicker and grills sizzle, captivating the senses and offering guests an immersive saga where the time-honored techniques of wood-fire cooking meet the innovative strokes of modern gastronomy. Notably, the venue boasts one of Thailand’s longest counter seating sections, ensuring an electric dining atmosphere.
Guiding the culinary artistry is Chef-Owner Sean Lai, whose vision for La Braci is steeped in reverence for both tradition and innovation. “Our culinary philosophy is rooted in a deep respect for both the past and the cutting-edge,” shares Lai. “We’ve crafted a dining experience that embraces the primal allure of wood-fire cooking, elevated with contemporary techniques. Each dish serves as a tribute to the natural flavors of carefully sourced ingredients, accentuated by the subtle intricacies of fire and smoke.”
La Braci’s menu champions the idea of shared plates, encouraging a communal approach to dining that amplifies the overall experience. “Food is best enjoyed in good company,” Sean smiles. “Our menu invites guests to explore a multitude of flavors and textures together, fostering an atmosphere that embodies true Thai hospitality.”
Conveniently located just a stone’s throw from Siam Square and a swift walk from BTS Ploenchit, La Braci offers an oasis-like retreat for both locals and tourists. With its luxurious yet lively setting and Instagram-worthy aesthetics, it is destined to become a beacon for those on the hunt for a unique and memorable dining experience.
La Braci: Chef, Team, and Experience
Under the deft leadership of Chef-Owner Sean Lai and Director of Operations Wachirawit Thananrat—fondly known as Chef Bank—a talented team of Thai chefs is ready to deliver a dining epiphany that transcends the ordinary. Guests are encouraged to interact with the chefs as they present their creations from the open kitchen, ensuring each visit is a personalized and interactive culinary journey.
Unique Features of La Braci
The restaurant’s pièce de résistance is its fascinating live fire display, complete with a selection of grilling stations tailored to each dish. This mesmerizing feature enchants diners with its visual and olfactory allure the moment they step through the door. Moreover, a charming step-up garden at the entrance offers a touch of nature, reminiscent of a cosy cave nestled within a vertical mountainside. This serene design juxtaposes beautifully with the bustling urban backdrop of Bangkok.
The chefs not only cook but also enlighten diners, explaining each dish’s ingredients and preparation methods, bringing an educational element to the dining experience. La Braci’s “fine dining lite” concept makes it both accessible and insightful for all who visit. Sean concludes, “At La Braci, our goal transcends merely creating a restaurant—we aspire to cultivate a connection between diners, the food, the fire, and the larger community. It’s a celebration of fire, flavors, and fellowship, offering an elevated dining experience at a price that invites everyone to indulge.”
Signature Dishes at La Braci
- Oyster Flambée with Beurre Blanc and Chive Oil: This masterpiece utilizes the Flambadou, a medieval tool modernized for today’s cuisine, to craft a sensory delight. Fresh Irish Cocollos oysters receive a quick kiss from blazing pork lard, enriching their natural umami. Paired with a comforting whey cream sauce and invigorating herb oil, it’s an explosion of flavors.
- Wood-Fired Australian Wagyu Angus Beef Flank: Grilled to perfection over premium hardwood charcoal and lovingly basted with wagyu fat, this indulgent flank cut achieves a caramelized crust while remaining luxuriously tender inside. Served with charred broccolini and a Rof emulsion—a nod to West African-inspired chimichurri—each bite dances with smoky and fresh hues.
- Wood-Fired Giant River Prawn: These plump prawns are heightened with prawn fat and fermented chilli oil, complemented by a zesty sour tomato salsa for a bold yet refreshing blend of tastes.
- Charred Baby Squid Potato Dumplings: Delight in the marriage of tender baby squid and succulent potato dumplings, graced by a lemon saffron emulsion and dill oil, balancing umami richness with bright tang.
- Passion Fruit Curd Mini Pavlova: Conclude your meal with a tropical twist on a classic. This pavlova features a crisp meringue base enveloped in luscious passion fruit curd, sweet and tangy in equal measure—a picture-perfect dessert that leaves a lasting impression.
La Braci Official Details
Opening Date: 19 November 2024
Location: One City Centre, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok
Contact: +66 (0)95 868 6565 | [email protected]
Website: www.labraci.com
Instagram: @labraci_bkk
About La Braci
Rooted in the elemental art of wood-fire cooking, La Braci fuses bold flavors with understated sophistication. Situated at One City Centre, it offers an elevated dining experience that remains fully approachable, ensuring guests savor the zenith of culinary mastery without compromise. For centuries, fire has been the heart of cooking, and at La Braci, it continues to ignite a menu that exalts simplicity and artisanal excellence.
Wow, La Braci sounds like an amazing place! I’m fascinated by the idea of combining ancient cooking techniques with modern elegance. What dish is everyone most excited to try?
Definitely the Oyster Flambée! Using a medieval Flambadou sounds intriguing and kind of theatrical.
Yes, the flambé technique really adds an exciting flair to the dining experience!
Personally, I’m looking forward to the Passion Fruit Curd Mini Pavlova. I’ve heard passion fruit curd is a game-changer!
It’s a great way to end a meal; fruit desserts keep things refreshing.
Isn’t this just another fancy place trying to capitalise on the wood-fire trend? I mean, how different can it really be from what’s already out there?
I see your point, but it’s about execution. If Chef Lai brings true innovation like he says, it could stand out.
True. I guess it comes down to whether they walk the walk or just talk the talk.
Disagree! Unique spins on wood-fire can create totally new experiences. Just look at how well some places have done integrating other elements like theatre and communal vibes.
This place looks like it’s destined to become a hotspot for Instagrammers. The aesthetics sound irresistible. But I wonder how the price point factors into the ‘accessible’ claim?
Absolutely! Presentation is half the experience these days. Let’s hope prices don’t scare people away.
I think the notion of ‘fine dining lite’ might mean smaller portion options which could help with costs?
I don’t get it. Everyone’s raving about the prawn dish, but I’m bothered by the idea of using fermented chili oil. It sounds overpowering!
Fermentation actually mellows and adds depth to the spiciness, you should give it a shot!
It’s an acquired taste, but adding contrast to seafood makes it a rewarding experiment.
It’s intriguing how much emphasis there is on interacting with chefs. Not everyone wants to engage like that during a meal.
True, but for some, it’s about learning and experiencing the artistry firsthand.
I suppose if the interaction is optional, it might actually enhance the visit.
I’m intrigued by the business aspect—how does opening in such a competitive food district align with La Braci’s vision? Are they geared more towards tourists or local foodies?
It’s probably a mix of both. The accessible, yet high-end vibe can attract diverse clientele.
I think we’ve seen too many places pop up with catchy gimmicks but nothing sustains long-term. Bangkok might be too saturated for La Braci.
I disagree. With the right marketing and consistent quality, La Braci can carve out a niche.
Fair point. It all boils down to quality service and unique offerings, I guess.
I’d travel just to see the step-up garden that mimics a cave. These design choices definitely enhance the dining experience, blending nature with urban life seamlessly.
Isn’t it more sensible to focus on cooking techniques rather than decor? Feels like restaurants should prioritize food quality.
I wonder how the blend of Australian beef and West-African chimichurri works. It sounds unconventional but fascinatingly delicious!