JW Marriott Phuket Resort & Spa - Thailand

CUCINA - highlighted in Conde Nast Traveler US Hot list May 2004 as the serving the best Italian food in Asia

Concept
Cucina means “kitchen” in Italian, which is reflected in the mood, design and ambiance of this upbeat restaurant, resulting in a winning combination of great food, comfortable, relaxed dining and fun entertaining service. The cuisine is the focus, with authentic yet rustic northern Italian fare that is fresh, artfully presented and full of flavor. On entering the restaurant, it feels like an old world family trattoria, reflecting years of family ownership as well as the changes over time.

Design Elements
On entering the restaurant the guest instantly sees the brick pizza oven in the exhibition kitchen, reinforcing the emphasis given to the food.

The overall look is that of the Italian countryside, incorporating the finishes one might expect to find in the rural environment of northern Italy like terracotta, stone, brick, rough-hewn woods and other natural surfaces.

Menu
The menu focuses on northern Italian cuisine artfully and authentically presented, with bold, full flavors. It is characterized as heavier, using typical ingredients such as cream, beans and stews. Recipes are slightly modified to allow for “lighter foods” in the tropical climate in which we are located, with emphasis on the wide variety of fresh vegetables and seafood available. A great selection of wines are also available.

On arrival at the restaurant, the open kitchen and pizza oven are visually appealing and immediately set the taste buds tingling with anticipation. The pizza oven is a top favorite, especially with our younger guests, enabling them to see their pizza being cooked to perfection as the rich aromas waft through the air.

Signature Dishes
Homemade ravioli stuffed with mascarpone cheese & pumpkin, served with parmesan & white truffle oil.

Service
Friendly, outgoing, interactive service starts with a warm welcome. They are then escorted to their table and as the drama unfolds in the exhibition kitchen, the Chefs’ creative talents come to the fore, preparing the food they so love, while the rich aroma of garlic teases the guests’ taste buds for just a moment longer.

Daily specials are presented on a hand written black board presented at the table, with confident and knowledgeable service. A solo guitarist performs nightly and both guests and servers have been known to join in the singing!

Olive oil and balsamic vinegar, as well as freshly baked bread and grissini are presented in rustic wrought iron containers, specialty glassware and plates, all with an Italian country feel, adding both variety and interest.

Hours of Operation and Seating Capacity
Open daily for Dinner 6.00 pm - 11.00 pm
Seats 77 people, inside 42 seats, outside 35 seats

Cucina was the proud recipient of the prestigious Wine Spectator Magazine (USA) Awards for 2005 and 2006.

Concept
Kabuki is a traditional form of Japanese theater founded in the early 17th century.

Design Elements
Simple, elegant styling characterizes the setting of Kabuki. The Sushi Chef prepares his delicacies behind a sleek black granite topped counter. Counter seats for up to eight persons, allows sushi lovers to watch the Chef create his masterpieces. Stylized textured glass and pale green celadon sushi platters complement the simple and sleek design of this venue and highlight the artistically presented cuisine.

Additional tables run along the adjacent gallery from which guests have spectacular views overlooking the large reflection pool, and beyond to the Andaman Sea.

Menu
Artfully presented Sushi, Sashimi Sushi Rolls and a selection of soups are served in Kabuki, together with a selection of Japanese Noodles presented in cast iron pots.

Signature Dish
Shrimp Tempura Roll

Service
Charming Thai hospitality, friendly and gracious. Elegant uniforms with Thai styling complement the natural beauty of the servers.

Operating Hours and Seating Capacity
Open daily from 2.00pm – 11.00pm, with seating capacity for 20 seats; eight at the Sushi counter with adjacent table seating for an additional 12

Concept Overview
Marriott Café is a casual restaurant where the foods and flavors of east and west are blended to offer a unique dining experience. Creative a la carte selections are offered for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as extensive grand buffet presentations for breakfast.

The menu provides fresh, bold flavors with artistic presentations using the finest and freshest ingredients. Friendly, efficient service displays the traditions of hospitality for which Thailand is famous.

Design Elements
Stunning views of the resort’s beautifully landscaped gardens and main pool, as well as the clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea are visible through the full-length glass windows in the air-conditioned section, as well as from the balcony. The expansive use of glass also provides natural light, contrasting with the traditional high vaulted wooden ceiling. Extensive use of wood throughout the restaurant with hard carved decorations adds warmth. Dark wood, cream and black granite, light shades of green and potted orchids, combine to create a simple yet elegant design.

The black granite and teak wood grand buffet is the focal point of the restaurant where creative food presentations are complemented by an eclectic combination of locally made textured glass and colored ceramics. The copper-fronted exhibition kitchen overlooks the grand buffet where guests can watch the preparation process. Table tops have simple Thai accents with a live bamboo or lemongrass plant giving a sense of place, together with wooden placemats and the popular Thai stainless steel flatware which has become a favorite purchase for visitors to Thailand.

Menu
The breakfast buffet starts with a rich display of fresh fruits and freshly made juices. Egg dishes, waffles and pancakes are all prepared to order. Traditional Thai and Japanese breakfast items are also offered on the buffet.

Dinner service features Northern Hemisphere Continental cuisine with succulent steak, fish and seafood dishes. Crisp salads are prepared tableside while hot appetizers and main courses are being masterfully created in the show kitchen which also becomes a visual feast for the guest; appealing to the senses of sight and sound as aromatic fragrances further tempt the taste buds before they make the final judgement! Spicy dishes can be altered to guests’ preference.

Healthy, spa inspired cuisine items are also featured on the a la carte menu.

Signature Dishes
Bouillabaisse of the Andaman Sea – a rich fish soup served with assorted fresh seafood from the Andaman

Service
Service commences on arrival with a warm Thai welcome and continues with complete and thorough knowledge of the food and beverage products offered. On-going training and taste panels enable associates to communicate and recommend dishes with confidence. Friendly, attentive service with a personal touch.

Operating Hours and Seating Capacity
The Marriott Caf? is open seven days a week, 6.30am - 11.00pm, serving breakfast lunch and dinner, with seating for 137 people; 93 indoor and 44 on the balcony.

Concept Overview
“Sawasdee” means welcome. Sala Sawasdee Bar is located in the spacious lobby area with commanding views over the expansive reflection pool, towards the Andaman Sea. Its open-air seating with a central bar welcomes guests to enjoy an extensive range of exotic concoctions prepared by the professional bartenders, while cooled by ocean breezes.

An ideal venue for drinks both before and after dinner, while enjoying the entertainment provided by a local jazz trio.

Design Elements
The inviting open-air setting is both elegant and comfortable. Rich red and gold tones are perfectly balanced by dark wood and natural lighting. As night falls, subdued lighting and the adjacent reflection pond creates a relaxing ambiance, with candles adding a touch of romance. The “island” bar wraps around the center of the open space, creating a stage from which bartenders create dazzling cocktails. Unique handmade glassware accentuates cocktail specialties.

Menu
Exotic cocktails, fine wines and both local and imported beer - beverages to suit everyone’s tastes, all of which is complemented by a creative array of Asian inspired tapas, uniquely presented. For sushi lovers, Kabuki is adjacent to the lounge area. The cocktail menu is literally a cocktail book so guests can take a note of their favorites to make at home!

Specialties
Asian Tapas Sampler
Mojito (Hemmingway’s favorite drink)
Mai Kao Mai Tai
Phuket Sunset
Blue Kamaaina

Service
Gracious Thai hospitality is the foundation of Sala Sawasdee Bar. Beautiful Thai ladies offer cocktails or tapas as they elegantly kneel beside the tables to serve guests. Servers are well versed in cocktails, wines, spirits, beer and tapas.

Operating Hours and Seating Capacity
Open daily from 10.00am - 1.00am with seating capacity for 51, including 12 at the bar.

Concept
Andaman Grill is a modern version of a traditional American steakhouse. This open- air, upscale steak and seafood restaurant has stunning views of the Mai Khao Beach and the Andaman Sea.

Guests arrive via a pathway lit with flame torches and are warmly welcomed as if arriving at a friend’s home. Ordering procedures, flavor profiles, methods of preparation and suggested wine pairings are knowledgeably described to the accompaniment of sizzles and appetizing aromas as the chosen fare is being cooked to perfection.

Each table has its own spice station – a pestle and mortar with fresh spices – salt, pepper, lemon pepper and paprika pepper for guests to be able to mix the spices according to their taste.

Decadent deserts too delicious to resist, are followed by coffee, espresso or a range of tea before guests linger over single malt scotches and nightcaps as the waves gently wash the shore just meters away.

Design Elements
The high wooden beamed ceiling and solid wooden furniture creates a rustic ambiance. Stainless steel clad drawers and doors for equipment emphasize cleanliness in this simple kitchen free of adornments. The mix of the colors – deep burgundy and dark wood, offset by ambient lighting reflect comfort and luxury.

Menu
Flavors are subtle and presentation is of high importance, as are the service and amenities. Succulent steaks are accompanied by a choice of specialty sauces made from a secret blend of spices that season every steak before it is grilled. Pairing of food and wine is a pinnacle of any dining experience. The Andaman Grill has an award-winning wine list with over than 200 labels and large variety of wine by the glass hand picked by a wine master.

Signature Dishes
Andaman Platter including Crab Cakes and Tartar Sauce, Cajun Spiced Shrimp Skewers – Avocado and Papaya Salsa, Shrimp Cocktail with a Cocktail Sauce.

Service
Service is and friendly and efficient, with great emphasis placed on product knowledge. The servers are specially trained in wine and food pairings. Ingredients and preparation methods are described as guests are escorted through the marketplace and make their selections.

Operating Hours and Seating Capacity
Open daily for Dinner from 6.00 pm - 10.00 pm
Seats 60 people

Concept Overview
Set amongst the beautiful gardens and landscaping, Rim Nam Pool Bar offers a wide selection of beverages including tropical cocktails. Pool friendly food such as sandwiches and salads are served in bamboo steam baskets and hand carved mango wood bowls. Servers dressed in traditional fisherman’s “chalays” service the pool areas, taking orders for snacks and drinks.

Design Elements
Open air design with views across the expansive swimming pool (107 meters) and lush tropical gardens.

Menu
All types of beverages. A selection of pool friendly foods are served from Sala Rim Talay’s kitchen which is adjacent to the bar. The Marriott Burger is an absolute must!

Service
Friendly interactive service, understanding the importance of speed and cool drinks!

Operating Hours and Seating Capacity
Open daily from 9.00am to 7.00pm with 650 seats.

GINJA “TASTE” - An Authentic and Memorable Thai Dining Experience

Concept
The new Ginja Taste Thai restaurant is set in the tropical gardens of the resort in its South wing adjacent to the pristine 17 km Mai Khao Beach with sweeping views of the Andaman Sea. The restaurant is built as a traditional Thai Sala with a beautiful high teak wood ceiling and is divided into two sections – an air-conditioned indoor Sala, and an outdoor patio for al-fresco dining. Ginja Taste offers an authentic Thai dining experience and is open daily for dinner. The cuisine is a blend of creative cooking and authentic taste, featuring a combination of popular Thai dishes as well as secret recipes from each region of the Kingdom prepared from only the freshest ingredients. The wines are carefully selected by renowned wine master, James Cluer to complement each menu item. Knowledgeable staff dressed in contemporary style Thai uniforms provides warm and gracious service.

Design Elements
The main design elements for Ginja Taste are wood and glass, mixing traditional Thai style with touches of Asian contemporary d?cor. The Sala roofline has a high teakwood ceiling supported by large teakwood columns representing the elegance of Thai architecture. The walls of the restaurant consist of glass sliding doors which open onto the al-fresco dining terrace. The glass walls afford stunning views of the resort’s landscape and the Andaman Sea and at night it reflects the flickering light of the candles, creating a warm, romantic atmosphere. Copper elements play an important role in the overall d?cor and emphasize the rich cultural of the Thai Kingdom. Food is served on handmade china in earth-tone colors, and complemented by brass cutlery with a unique design. Contemporary Thai uniforms made from linen, featuring earth tones that complement the d?cor and reflect the colors of the restaurant’s logo.

Menu
Ginja Taste offers authentic Thai cuisine including the most popular Thai dishes such as “Tom Yum Kung” (Spicy, Sour River Prawn soup), “Som Tum” (Spicy Papaya Salad) and features forgotten secret recipes from the four regions of the Kingdom. The menu also includes Chef’s specialties of the day. In keeping with its wonderful location, the restaurant specializes in seafood creations - only the finest and fresh seafood is on offer and forms the main component of the menu. Key elements of Thai cuisine are herbs and spices and which are utilized in the recipes.

The menu offers appetizers, salads, soups, main dishes and desserts as well as set menus created for family style dining where dishes are shared, as is typical in Thailand. Particular attention is paid to the food presentation which is both innovative and creative.

Signature Dishes
All dishes in Ginja Taste are unique; two of them however stand out as signature dishes as they are rarely served in any restaurants and fuse a modern style of cooking with ancient recipes.

Goong Som – “Poached White Prawns in a rich Coconut and Lime broth”. This dish comes from the Central area of Thailand, and has a very subtle taste balancing coconut milk with a dash of chili and lime. White prawns are poached to perfection and especially when combined with one of our recommended white wines – this dish leaves you wanting more.

Gai Yang Krueng Geang “Grilled Chicken and Red Curry Reduction served on Bamboo skewers”. This special dish was added to the menu by our talented young Thai Executive Sous Chef, Tammasak Chootong who is the creative force behind discovering and enhancing secret recipes on the Ginja Taste menu. For this recipe he used his Aunt’s cooking as an inspiration. The Gai Yang dish originates from the province of Songkla, the most southern tip of Thailand bordering with Malaysia. The proximity of the border is evident in the sweet curry taste of the chicken. The secret as Chef Tammasak points out, is to marinate the chicken overnight in Thai herbs, such as shallots and ground coriander. When grilling, the chicken is lightly braised with the red curry paste creating an unforgettable taste. The presentation itself is another surprise – just order and taste!

Service
The service provided in Ginja Taste focuses on gracious, warm genuine Thai hospitality to give a totally authentic dining experience. Well-trained staff enhance the dining experience by their knowledge of every dish and its ingredients as well as by recommending the best pairings of food and wine.

Hours of Operation and Seating Capacity
Open daily for Dinner 6.00 pm – 10.00 pm
Seats 68 people, inside 40 outside terrace 28

Concept
Out of the Blue - Drink is a trend setter for cocktail mixology. Serving great cocktails based on vodka infused with local flavors - this is a great place to relax to lounge music and soak in magnificent sea views.

Design Elements
Out of the Blue – Drink is designed in various shades of blue in contemporary Thai style. It is located on the beachfront with both indoor and outdoor seating areas. An oval bar counter made of stainless steel and blue mosaic tiles dominates the centre of the bar. An eye catching display of blue bottles creates a stunning backdrop for the bar. All decorations and elements are in blue. There is seating around the bar, or on comfortable lounges inside the bar, as well as outside on the terrace with a small waterfall in the background. The water feature is further expanded with small ponds either side of the entrance from which sparkling lights twinkle, giving the effect of stars.

Menu
The house cocktails for the Out of the Blue - Drink are created by our Liquid Chef. The main element for these cocktails is vodka infused by local herbs. A large variety of wine by the glass from all over the world, draught Thai beer and great bar food – is also available at Out of the Blue - Drink.

Service
Friendly, trendy, charming and well educated in the art of cocktail mixology.

Hours of Operation and Seating Capacity:
Open Daily 5.00 pm – 1.00 am
Seats 74 people, at the bar 22 inside 28 and the outdoor terrace 24

Concept
Out of the Blue – Splash is located inside the Blue Swimming Pool in the South wing of the resort. The bar offers a great selection of refreshing juices and tropical cocktails and easy to eat bites are also available.

Design Elements
The Out of the Blue – Splash is a swim up pool bar set in the middle of the Blue Pool with amazing views of the Andaman Sea. Cascades of water from the bar’s roof create a large waterfall into the pool.

Menu
The Out of the Blue Bar – Splash has its own small kitchen from which easy to eat bites are served. The menu boasts fresh salads, various types of sandwiches , great selection of European appetizers and pizza. A large selection of thirst quenching drinks from juices to tropical cocktails.

Service
Refreshing, knowledgeable, charming with a smile.

Hours of Operation and Seating Capacity:
Open daily 9.00 am – 7.00 pm
Seats 12 around the bars, 86 pool lounge chairs

Relaxed café-style dining with an extensive menu of made-to-order gourmet sandwiches, salads, cakes, pastries, ice cream, desserts and delicious specialty coffees and beverages.

A range of aromatic breads are freshly baked each day with a blackboard posting the times for the next batch to be out of the oven. Be warned though, there is a queue for the cinnamon rolls at 9.00am each day! A delicious range of home-made delicacies can be eaten in, to prepared ‘to go’.

Located in the shopping arcade on the ground level and open daily from 6.00am to 10.00 pm. Seating capacity of 46, with 12 inside and 34 outside in the covered arcade area.

A range of light, healthy spa-inspired cuisine menu items are available in each restaurant.

For those wanting to enjoy a meal in the privacy of their room, or enjoy the romantic outdoor setting on their balcony or terrace, a wide selection of menu choices is available 24 hours daily. As each room is equipped with DVD players, a snack menu for movie-goers was a must.