The L’Atelier outpost of French star chef Joël Robuchon has been spicing up the city with high-end culinary experiences since it opened at the Mahanakhon CUBE two years ago. Now the Robuchon empire in Bangkok takes a slightly more casual step in the guise of a mall café at swanky Central Embassy.
Surrounded by a galleria of posh boutiques, Le Salon doesn’t veer too far away from the signature bar concept of L’Atelier—the space is still dominated by a prep counter where chefs put the final touches to beautifully prepared dishes. The sophisticated Robuchon trademark is maintained with black lacquered tabletops and polished red leather seats. L’Atelier’s small bites still make their way into the menu, including Robuchon’s signature Imperial caviar dish, served in a tin with a delicate layer of king crab mixed with fennel cream and lobster jelly (B2,800) and the apple and beetroot tartare with guacamole and green mustard ice cream (B380). Common cafe bites are given a touch of luxury to heighten the mall dining experience, as in the millefeuille-inspired lobster sandwich with cocktail sauce and avocado (B1,400).
The Chocolate Tendence, Robuchon’s signature dessert made with a decadent Araguani chocolate custard (B450), also makes an appearance, although it faces stiff competition from the refreshing Le Caipirinha (B450), which masterfully combines coconut nectar jelly with banana and passionfruit cream.
On top of the usual tea and coffee offerings (B200), the intimate spot also offers wines by the glass (B490) and a selection of mocktails (B230).
