Sky High (Sirocco & Sky Bar)

Sky high

The open sky.

A cool drink in your hand.

The city of Bangkok beneath you.

It's time to unwind.

As we sat at our table dose to the edge of the terrace, I looked at the majestic dome of lebua at State Tower, Bangkok shining with many bright lights, thestail"5 leading down from the foyer to the seating area, the Sky Bar situated almost at the edge, the dinner tables decorated with cutlery and candles and the jazz band playing at a comer. Sirocco looks like a grand set straight out of James Bond movie, where quaint traditions meet chic modernity.

On the 64th floor, under an open sky, the pleasant Breeze is as soothing as the faint humdrum of activity going on around you. Light conversations over glasses of Hangovertini (lebua's signature drink with a scotch base, especially concocted to not give you hangovef5 the next morning) and the five-course meal prepared especially by the chef-de-cuisine, Chef Rick Gonzalez,

Is quite an experience? Wines, selected from some of the best cellars across the world, adorn the bar menu, while some of the best Mediterranean dishes feature prominently on the platter. While a dish of king oyster with battement squash and king oyster mushrooms is absolutely delicious, you cannot miss the main course from the

Chef's Non-vegetarian Tasting Menu. The Australian grained boneless rack of lamb with spatula, a variation of spiced comet and dijonnaise jus is something you might have never tasted. For the green lovers, there is also ample to choose from the Chefs Vegetarian Tasting Menu.

Besides the wines and Hangovertini, there a Variety of other cocktails you could choose from. Vodka-based Sunset 63 and Sky Cosmo are definitely for the sweet­ toothed while the scotch and tequila-based Earth is for those who like their drinks strong. A must-try is the Mimosa, a delicious concoction of champagne and orange juice. And for those who like It strong with a slight bitter taste, you must definitely call for a Desire-a mix of champagne, brandy and angostura bitters.

No matter how inebriated you feel after the amazing cocktails, dessert is a must Kirsch – Vanilla mousse with chocolate Cream and spiced sponge is to die for. The mousse with the cream creates just the right balance of a bitter-sweet taste in your palate and it lingers on for quite some time.

Just as the CEO, Mr. Deepak Ohri stated, Sirocco does actually create an experience­ one that is simply unforgettable.

Breakfast at Mozu

As I cycled faster and faster in the gym, my mind was furiously mapping short memories and thoughts, fusing them to be part of the business strategy for this quarter or piecing together an array of experiences for this blog entry for lebua. As I switched from Japanese original soundtrack for Totoro and Lahu songs from the mountains of Chiangrai to beautiful renditions in Spanish and Italian by Il Divo, I concluded the following:

There are indeed many hotels in Bangkok. Starwood alone has 8 brands here (and the only 2 cities to have all 9 brands are New York and Beijing). To stand out, is quite a task. A great breakfast buffet in a five star setting inside a five star hotel is worth it, to kick off your day. Mozu at lebua does theirs in style.

I’ve not had breakfast in all 8 brands under Starwood here in Bangkok, but I've had my fair share in almost all of them, plus other 5 star hotels. Below, briefly - are my thoughts why the one at lebua is special.

1. Mozu has a dedicated corner for Indian delicacies. And on the main buffet line, surely one or two of them are Indian cuisine, from masala potatoes to tandoori chicken.  So if you like to at least have a choice of hearty Indian selection, lebua will do justice.

2.They have soya bean milk at the Chinese corner. Say no more.

3. I like how the sausages are cooked in front of you as you order.

4. Their omelet corner is strategic, at the entrance to the air-conditioned part of the café where the main buffet line is located. And they usually have not one, but three in the ‘egg crew’.

5. Croissants are baked fresh – one can expect no less with Executive Chef Frank in command of the food repertoire in lebua

6. Homemade yoghurt, served in beaker-like jars with a story behind them.

7. There is actually a place to hang your jacket, and the service crew will do it for you. Plus points for that indeed.

Now, let me check when I am going to Mozu next. Yes, tomorrow it will be.

The Lotus Position

I have just returned from one of the most hedonistic experiences of a lifetime. Every second I spent at the Lebua hotel in Bangkok was resplendent of their decadent brand of pampering.Lebua is a Thai-French name. Le meaning 'the' and Bua,Thai for the Lotus. In Buddhist philosophy, the Lotus has extreme significance. Depictions at temples often show Lotusstems reaching out into the sky from murky pools where fish and turtles swim. The metaphor goes like this:we are all in this pit or dirt,of predators who can attack us and defeat us, but if we strive hard enough, we can rise above and beyond all this and allow our spirit to soar endlessly,where then it truly blossoms.Lebua then is quite an apt name for it is all about delivering to us the luxuiYthatwe all singularly strive for.Lebua's  CEO, Deepak Ohri, believes that LUXURY is not justfor the rich. "LUXURY is different things to different people, depending on their level of expectations. "EveiYone has a different definition and level of aspiration and to ensure that nobody goes away unsatisfied basically means setting your standards high enough to please eveybody.
But all this wasn't told to me, it was shown to me. Sirocco, a restaurant at Lebua, has undergone some changes but the location and quality of food remain high as ever, pun intended.With a view on the iconic golden dome of the State Tower, as a jazz band croons away silky somethings into the black star-decked sky, this is quite an ethereal outing venue. Not surprising to hear that many a man has gone down on one knee here.
My personal favourite was Mezzaluna.Ihave never had twins seiVe me before, and here they were,the SOhring brothers, cuisiniers in arms, handling what is arguably the finest dining experience in Bangkok.
Finally,the star in this crown was a Frenchman, Sebastien Dental,who handles F&B operations here but more importantly, he can sing to you from the wine list, each phrase almost rhyming, each description so vivid that you can almost taste it. All through my stay he ensured that eveiY wine line-up was a journey and an experience unto itself. We tasted our way through more countries and regions together than Ihave visited with my girlfriend! Somehow,Bangkok,Lebua included, still shies away from seiVing Thaiwine on their lists.I wonder why? Sebastien, at the time of my meeting him,was planning a trip to the northern winemaking provinces where he planned to taste and experience them first-hand before incorporating them into his premium wine selection.The best part, even with an in-suitespa room, my living quarters were a fraction of what one would pay anywhere in India.In short, LUXURY is an aspiration, not an alibito rob banks or break into fixed deposits.
Lebua is now all set to open in Delhi. A sneak sharing that I am indulging in is this: Sirocco 2 will be coming here, as also most of the skilled staff to put menus and service in place. The best will aIso be a fine-dining Indian restaurant to take Indian dining stratospherically high, be it cuisine, service, or setting (imagine 1,001 candles-lit rooms with reflection pools.) As Deepak shared,the restaurant is set to redefine Indian cuisine by several internationalMichelin chefs who will contribute one dish to the menu for each day and on those very days, the same dish would feature on their Michelin-rated menus elsewhere in the world.


"That is glocal,something that is not merely imported but is also worthy of being exported." Now that will be serious down-on-one-knee stuff!

Pomelo Salad with Cashew Nuts and Mild Chili

Mezzaluna, in flight

lebua has done it again, in crafting a discerning menu for 35,000 feet above the ground! The German Twin Chefs Thomas and Mathias Suhring who run the hotel’s award winning restaurant Mezzaluna, have been invited to cook for Lufthansa’s Star Chefs fine dining program.

An infusion of East and West, with a touch of Thai flavors, every dish is epicurean indeed. Their creation will be featured on Lufthansa’s Business and First Class international flights till February 28, 2012.

Highlights from the Business and First class menus are shown below. Bon voyage appétit

Coconut and Basil Pudding with Caramelized Pineapple and

Chili Oil

Bavaria Blu Cream Cheese and Camembert with Walnuts

Coconut and Sago Soup with Mango and Green Tea Biscuit

Pomelo Salad with Cashew Nuts and Mild Chili

Sautéed Tenderloin of Beef in Oyster Sauce with Seasonal Vegetables and Jasmine Rice

Chocolate Cake with Cherry Brandy Parfait and aged Balsamic Vinegar

Top 12 things to enjoy in 2012 at Tower Club, lebua Hotels & Resorts, Bangkok

Whichever month you choose to travel, Bangkok boasts a festival or event which will have you enthralled and entertained – and the only place to stay during your visit is Asia’s recently awarded Hotel of the Year[1] (Best 10 in Asia) – lebua Hotels & Resorts.

Perfectly positioned at the heart of bustling Bangkok, Tower Club at lebua overlooks the Chao Phraya River offering guests breathtaking views – from either your private suite balcony or one of the many fine dining restaurants and bars with vistas you’ll never forget.

Whether you’re hitting the town or enjoying the hotel’s unrivalled hospitality, we’ve compiled a list of 12 superb experiences for 2012:

January – During the Chinese New Year festivities, enjoy dragon parties and be mesmerised by Chinatown’s street dancers who will be decked out in elaborate costumes. When the festivities have left you weary on your feet, head back to your hotel for an exquisite in-room massage.

February – True romantics won’t be able to resist drinks and dinner at spectacular Sirocco at The Dome at lebua. Why not wine and dine your loved one with the special packages Lavish lebua Luxury* and dinner on Valentine’s Day at Sirocco, the most romantic restaurant in Bangkok.

March – Experience Thailand’s renowned floating markets during the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and Sweet Grape Fair where you can sample local produce as traders drift past on small boats in nearby Damnoen Saduak. Get your land legs back during a relaxing dinner at the multi-award winning Mezzaluna Restaurant located at The Dome at lebua, where three and six course menus are created daily.

April – The Thai New Year is all about fantastic fun – and water, plenty of it. At the official start to the Buddhist New Year the city centre will be awash with an enormous water fight – so prepare for a soaking safe in the knowledge you can then retreat to your suite at Tower Club at lebua for a more indulgent water experience in your own bubble bath, steaming hot shower or luxury pool.

May – May marks the beginning of the official rice-planting season with the Royal Ploughing Ceremony taking centre stage mid-month. Watch buffaloes lead old-fashioned ploughs into the Sanam Luang Park. Make the most of your May soujourn by combining your Bangkok stay at Tower Club at lebua with an opulent visit to lebua’s partner property on the island of Krabi – Phulay Bay.

June – Savvy shoppers know June is a great month to check out the bargains on offer during the Amazing Thailand Grande Sale Fair when the city’s shops and department stores offer substantial discounts off a wide variety of items - so don’t forget to pack an extra suitcase. Bring your bags back to your suite to put on your new outfit and be the envy of the other diners as you enjoy a glass or two at the Champagne Bar at The Dome at lebua.

July – Religious ceremonies will take place in all of Bangkok’s main temples to mark the Buddhist ceremony of Asalaha Puja Day – a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the spiritual side of Thai culture. Your concierge at lebua Hotels & Resorts will be more than happy to help organise a tour or personalised itinerary to ensure you make the most out of every minute in Bangkok.

August – Frock up for the Bangkok International Fashion Fair, which attracts leading fashion designers from the Asia Pacific region. In this fantastic free event, travellers are invited to view the very latest in clothing and accessories, and to attend fashion shows. But, before you pound the pavement in search of the hottest looks, why not boost your stamina with a complimentary high tea – available for all Tower Club guests, daily on the 52^nd floor.

September – September is dominated by the annual Mid-Autumn Festival which is celebrated by a range of traditional Chinese events city-wide. The annual Mid—Autumn Festival will take place across the city. A local favourite, the festival focuses on good triumphing over evil, and sees the night skies alight with moonlight ceremonies, candles and incense. Make the most of the views from your suite and have a lebua chef cook dinner for you and your loved one in the privacy – and luxury – of your own room.

October – During the annual Thai Beer Festival, visitors can sample some of Bangkok’s finest locally brewed beers. Top off your experience enjoying one of the signature creations from renowned mixologist Alex at The Sky Bar at The Dome at lebua. Perhaps try a Havana Pearl?

November – Loi Krathong Festival is one of Bangkok’s most famous celebrations during which boats constructed of banana leaves and filled with candles, coins, incense and flowers are floated along the waterways. Witness this magical event over a relaxing meal at Breeze as you enjoy the city fireworks along the Chao Phraya River.

December – Bangkok is a city that knows how to party, and this is never true than on New Year’s Eve. Tower Club at lebua’s Countdown Celebration packages let you be at the heart of the action, ushering in the New Year in style with a bird’s eye view of the midnight fireworks.

So, take your pick and head to lebua Hotels & Resorts, Bangkok to enjoy the best of Bangkok in the absolute lap of luxury.

A Night for Love

The occasion is Valentine’s Day. In the words of Plautus (a Roman playwright from some time ago), “Let us celebrate the occasion with wine and sweet words.” At lebua, we provide the best of wines, alongside gourmet masterpieces. The sweet words however, we leave to you.

I am very excited to introduce you to your most memorable Valentine’s Day at Sirocco and Sky Bar of Tower Club at lebua. Don’t you agree that a romantic dinner on Valentine’s Day cannot be any better with the sights of the sun setting or starry sky and the evening lights adding to the heightened lovely atmosphere?

Come celebrate your Valentine’s Day with your special someone at the world’s highest al fresco restaurant “Sirocco”, located on the 63rd floor of the State Tower. This spectacular restaurant and bar will take your romance to another level.

Delight your lover’s heart with the special romantic dinner from our international chef at Sirocco. Enjoy a 6-course special odyssey while appreciating live jazz band.

This exclusive set dinner is priced at THB 19,999++ per couple with a complimentary rose. Alternatively, you can opt for a sip at our multi-award winning Sky Bar, while enjoying the stunning view for 9,000++ per couple including a bottle of G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne plus a complimentary rose.

You’ll have every reason to continue celebrating love long after your Valentine’s Day dinner has been served. Perhaps a night in the suite is the way to go.

Newsletter of TAT Spain (Jan – Mar 2012)

Club Tower at Lebua fue el gran ganador de los premios HOSPITALITY ASIA PLATINUM AWARDS 2011-2013

Lebua Hotels & Resorts fue distinguido con 14 prestigiosos premios en diferentes categorías en lo que se conoce como los “Óscar de la Hospitalidad”. El hotel Lebua fue distinguido, entre otros, como el “Hotel del Año”. También, cada uno de sus restaurantes y bares: Mezzaluna, Siroco, Sky Bar, Brezze y Café Mozu han recibido galardones por su exquisita cocina, sus instalaciones que ofrecen vistas panorámicas de fama internacional y el impecable servicio del staff.

Además, su Consejero Delegado, el Sr. Deepak Ohri, fue elegido “Empresario del Año”.

www.lebua.com

Lebua at State Tower

Cada una de las 357 suites (que oscilan entre los 66 y los 266 m2 de superficie) que componen este auténtico hotel 5 estrellas, ha sido diseñada para ofrecer a sus huéspedes, más que una estancia, una experiencia. Su secreto radica en una mezcla en exactas proporciones de lujo, comodidad, tecnología y vistas panorámicas de Bangkok.

Además, Lebua cuenta con una exquisita y ecléctica selección de restaurantes y bares, conocida como The Dome. Ya sea mediterránea, moderna, asiática, india o libanesa, en todos ellos se puede saborear la mejor gastronomía del mundo. Probablemente el más famoso sea el Sirocco, en el piso 63, sin lugar a dudas, uno de los must de la ciudad.

www.lebua.com