Applauded pop-up restaurant “Waiting For CLARA” served as an amuse-bouche to “CLARA”, a celebration of modern Italian cuisine, opened end of 2019 in Bangkok, Yen Akart.

OVERVIEW
11 years after giving birth to the Italian sensation, Sensi, Chef Christian Martena and Maitre D’ Clara Del Corso-Martena have put their hearts into a new culinary venture. From his open-style kitchen, Chef Christian will take you on a culinary journey. He blends his native cuisine with creative and modern techniques using high-quality imported products and local ingredients. The symbiotic couple is sticking to its winning recipe: heartfelt welcome, genuine hospitality, and simple elegance of Clara woven with the palatable passion of Chef Christian’s mastered craft. French Sommelier, Edouard Marquis had joined the team to add a special wine experience. Former Sommelier at 2 Michelin Star Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud in Dublin & Le Clarence Paris and trained by Gaetan Lacoste awarded Sommelier of the Year in 2019 in France. Edouard Marquis loves sharing his passion and knowledge with others.

More than an ode to Italian savors, “CLARA” is a tribute to Chef Christian’s beloved wife, best friend, and business partner, gracefully working her magic at the tables and sharing their common passion for fine cuisine with a deep sense of humanity. They now offer a culinary journey through Italy by regions that change seasonally (every 3 months), a Signature Menu featuring Chef Christian’s creations, and since January 2024, a 4 Course A La Carte where guests can make their selection. CLARA has been listed in the Michelin Guide since 2021 and has been awarded by 50 TOP ITALY as the “24th Best Italian Restaurant in the World in 2024” (over 50 restaurants). Chef Christian Martena received the award of “Dish of the Year 2023” for his Spaghetti Bruschetta by 50 TOP ITALY. Clara Del Corso-Martena has also received the award of “Maître of the Year 2024” by 50 TOP ITALY. 7 Regions Menu at THB 3,680++ | Signature 9 Courses Menu at THB 4,880++ | 4 Course A La Carte at THB 2,680++ Wine Pairing 7 Regions at THB 2,480++ (6 glasses) | Wine Pairing Signature Menu at THB 2,980++ (6 glasses). A comprehensive wine list and wines by the glass are also offered.

AMBIENCE
While in the center of the Sathorn district, “CLARA” is tucked away in a peaceful Yen Akart residential area. Formerly known as Villa Yenakart Exhibition Hall, the Bauhaus-style villa is staying true to its artistic roots. The five-meter-high walls remain the backdrop to curated artworks, rotating every few months. CLARA is currently showcasing French artist Chloe Kelly Miller, Rudy Meyer, Russian artist Konstantin “Zmogk” Danilov, Hong Kong artist Wai Ming Lung, and French Cambodian painter Adana. The floor-to-ceiling windows open to a lush garden, planted with VAL’s monumental and lean sculptures. When the sun sets, Matteo Massevry’s warm and expert lighting breathes life into the whitewashed villa’s façade and surrounding greeneries for a mesmerizing entrance. The remarkable space caters to all occasions and moods with multiple sitting options. For an intimate encounter with the craftsmen, join one of the 10 comfy seats of the Chef’s Table, designed by acclaimed designer P. Tendercool and uniquely tattooed by Tantai, a renewed Thai tattoo artist; or perch yourself on the highchairs at the designer’s kitchen counter to feel part of the orchestrated action. Gaze at the leafy scenery from the main dining room crowned by Massevry’s sculpture of lights; or walk up to the semi-private mezzanine for a secluded bird-eye view. After dinner, cosy up into P. Tendercool Garden Lounge for a selection of liquors and cigars.

MUST-TRY
"Spaghetti Come Una Bruschetta": representation of the classic Italian bruschetta as a spaghetti.(Dish of the Year 2023 by 50 TOP ITALY.

FOOD
7 Regions Menu - THB 3,680++ (Seasonal Menu - changing every 3 months) | Signature 9 Course Menu - THB 4,880++ | A La Carte 4 Course Menu - THB 2,680++

SERVICE
Extremely attentive, impeccably trained by Clara herself, are on hand to ensure guests are looked after at all times.

PRICING
FOOD: From THB 2,680++ to THB 4,880++ | WINE PAIRING: From THB 2,480++ to THB 2,980++

SUMMARY
Clara restaurant serves exquisite Italian fares and is reasonably priced, in a unique setting offering guests multiple sittings options, surrounded by art from local artists.

ABOUT CHEF
Raised in the Puglia region of Italy, Christian Martena discovered his passion for cooking watching his family hard at work in the kitchen of their restaurant. An aptitude for learning new techniques and preparing innovative food led to him working in some of Europe’s most famous kitchens, before moving to Asia where he was a chef at award-winning restaurants and ultra-luxury hotels including Sensi Restaurant in Bangkok, TheStrand Hotel in Yangon, and Six Senses Koh Samui in Thailand. This wealth of experience gained on both continents stood him in good stead to launch his restaurant in Bangkok alongside his wife Clara, after whom it is named. The restaurant has gained critical acclaim for its modern take on Italian fine- dining. CLARA has been listed in the Michelin Guide since 2021 and has been awarded by TOP50 ITALY as the “24th Best Italian Restaurant in the World in 2024”. Chef Christian Martena also received the award of “Dish of the Year 2023” for his Spaghetti Bruschetta by TOP50 ITALY.