Back in April I had the pleasure of dining at Sra Bua - the beautiful oriental restaurant of the five star Adlon Hotel Kempinski. The concept is inspired by the Danish Michelin restaurant Kiin Kiin, and guests can enjoy exquisite Japanese-Thai cuisine with a European twist. Welcome to a different gourmet experience in Berlin.
Asian flavors and European craftsmanship
“Sra Bua” is the Thai word for lotus pond and a symbol of peace and serenity. You instantly feel that when walking into the restaurant at Adlon Hotel Kempinski in Berlin; the atmosphere is relaxed yet formal. Dimmed lights and beautiful Asian decorations adorns the restaurant, which is actually inspired by Kiin Kiin in Copenhagen - the only Thai restaurant in the world holding a Michelin star.
The concept of Sra Bua is developed by the Kempinski Group and is therefore also located in other Kempinski hotels, but in Berlin, the chef de cuisine is Tim Raue, who has previously been awarded two Michelin stars. The idea is to include Thai aromas, Japanese Puritanism, Chinese philosophy and European craftsmanship.
A work of art
A friendly staff greeted us upon our arrival, and for the rest of the night they were very attentive. We chose the ‘Sra Bua menu’, which includes six courses accompanied by matching wines. A true Asian feast emerged and spoiled both our senses and taste buds. Highlights were the palm hearts, scallop, almond milk and avocado, which had a certain softness to it, and the BBQ lamb with sesame and cowpea. Everything was served with a technical and creative inventiveness, which surprised us (how often are you served lobster with passion fruit or braised lotus root with watercress?)
Not-so-hungry guests can also share different dishes (the set menu “Ruam Gan”) or simply choose a snack or a starter, but I strongly recommend trying out different dishes to fully understand the concept.
Sra Bua is not just another fancy Asian restaurant; it’s a work of art. Feinschmeckers will find themselves challenged by a new culinary concept, which blends Asian and European culture in the best possible way.
One thing’s for sure; we can’t wait to be back - perhaps for another round of Hamachi?
For more information go to www.kempinski.com.
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