Ca' Dei Frati Wine Pairing Dinner at Sunplay Paradiso
In the tranquil enclave of Bang Saray, finding an evening that really captures the essence of refined relaxation is always a treat. The recent gathering at Sunplay Paradiso for the Ca’ Dei Frati Wine pairing dinner delivered precisely that. Kicking off at sunset there was a welcome hour by the outside bar, perfectly positioned by the striking, swimming pool at Sunplay. Guests trickled in, eager to unwind, socialize, and sample some of the delightful finger food on offer. Of course, the more experienced diners amongst us wisely exercised a bit of restraint,resisting the temptation to fill up on savoury starter bites because we all knew a massive culinary journey lay ahead.
For our welcome we were introduced to a wonderfully crisp Cuvée Dei Frati Metodo Classico Brut, which immediately set a high standard for the night. It proved to be a cut above the standard prosecco you usually encounter around town, carrying a refined elegance that instantly put everyone in a celebratory mood. We then moved inside to the beautifully designed restaurant for the antipasti course. I opted for the decadent Monte cheese soufflé, a rich creation layered with smooth milk cream, a drizzle of sharp balsamic vinegar, and a deliciously crispy slice of bacon, paired wonderfully with the I Frati Lugana DOC.
As the evening rolled along for my Primi I chose the pici with river sardines, skillfully sidestepping the mushroom alternative since fungi aren’t really my favourite thing. Unfortunately it turns out that river sardines aren’t really my thing either, although the accompanying Rosa Dei Frati red wine I really did enjoy with its distinct raspberry and caramel notes. The Secondi, however, was for me the highlight of the entire evening. Slow-cooked beef, featuring the tender Cappello del Prete cut braised to absolute perfection, melted in my mouth and was powerfully complemented by a robust Ronchedone Vino Rosso. The sheer depth of the wine stood up magnificently to the richness of the beef, creating a combination of tastes that lingered long after the plates were cleared. While some diners chose the alternative branzino fish option with its delicate Lugana sauce and grapes, the beef lover in me felt completely spoiled by this masterful main course.
Following the savory triumphs, we were treated to a magnificent selection of formaggi featuring a cheese plate sourced directly from the Garda Lake region. It was served alongside a small dish of honey, though personal preference led me to appreciate the unmasked, bold flavors of the cheese on their own. The cheese was paired with the best wine of the night the Amarone Pietro dal Cero Valpolicella DOCG it’s a (4000 baht bottle retail price) vintage from 2015. Finally to round off the meal, there was a delightful pineapple cheesecake served with a rich cup of Illy coffee for those who requested it. The entire menu flowed seamlessly and the price of 3,000 baht net per person felt entirely justified given the sheer quality of the ingredients and the free-flowing wine pairings.
Beyond the phenomenal food and wine, what also made the night special was the atmosphere cultivated by Roberto and his partner. They acted as wonderful, attentive hosts to the diners – many of whom are already loyal friends of this delightful restaurant. I also appreciated the music selection throughout the night. We initially settled into our seats accompanied by smooth, relaxing jazz piano, but halfway through the evening, the energy shifted dynamically into a lively mix of upbeat Italian pop and catchy Thai numbers, transforming the mood into a vibrant party atmosphere.
For anyone living the expat dream in the Chon Buri area, looking to elevate their weekend dining experience, keep an eye out for future events here by reaching out directly to Roberto at 092 348 5199 to book, or visit the Sunplay Asia Bangsaray Complex located at number two, Moo six, Soi Tessaban twelve in Bang Sare, Sattahip District.
If you’re interested is hosting an event in your own restaurant or would like to join one of the many that come up in and around Pattaya organised by Italasia then contact Mauro Sciacoaluga via email [email protected] or visit the Italasia showroom in North Pattaya italasiagroup.com