With his El Willy restaurant in the Bund, globe-trotting Spanish chef Guillermo “Willy” Trullas Moreno introduced Shanghai to what he calls “sexy tapas,” a concept built on his quirky-cool approach and larger-than-life personality. Now, he’s bringing that vibe to Bangkok.
The cozy yet energetic restaurant sits above street level on Sukhumvit Soi 51, where Opposite Mess Hall and Crying Thaiger once stood. A moody dining space splashed with pops of color and counter seating, and a slightly hidden private room, are all centered around the open kitchen—perfect for observing the charismatic Moreno cranking out orders.
Currently on offer are two family-style, made-to-share set menus (B2,000/B3,000). Expect an array of flavorful options, like the Explosion de Salmon y Trufa, smoked salmon massaged with truffle honey and layered on a crispy shell with Greek yogurt, and the Bikini Ibérico, an ode to Barcelona’s sandwich vendors spun up with Ibérico ham.
The top draw, however, are the Arroz Mariscos, a generous portion of mixed seafood paella topped with dollops of aioli and fresh lemon.
It wouldn’t be a complete meal without their Basque-style cheesecake, a creamy Spanish rendition of the New York classic.
A la carte options will soon be on the horizon, and both menus offer wine pairing (B1,200/five glasses).
Image courtesy of El Willy Kitchen
