The Intercontinental Bangkok opened to fanfare last week, bringing with it the debut of a new California-inspired resto called So Cal—shorthand for Southern California. 

 

What on Earth, you ask, is California cuisine? In this case it’s reflective of the influx of cultures in Southern California, but concentrates on mixes of European and Mediterranean flavors, headed by Chef Dominic Hong. 

 

Their signature dishes include a lobster tostada with serrano chili and yuzu dressing, grilled octopus with potato bravas and fermented jalapeno aioli, pork belly tacos, and a 48-hour slow cooked lamb neck.  

 

Signature drinks include the Lavender Sgroppino—a mix of vodka, lemon sorbet, Prosecco and lavender essence bubble—and the Citrus and Bubbles that mixes pink gin and bergamot liqueur with pink grapefruit, chamomile cordial, and prosecco. The lavish drinks give it all bright, hi-so Sunday Funday feel. 

 

Set on the ground floor of the Intercontinental Bangkok Sukhumvit just off the Chidlom BTS amongst the swirl of the downtown between Central World and Central Chidlom. Expect a large open kitchen, bar, and huge floor to ceiling windows that let in the whirlwind sights of life beneath the BTS. If you want a few of those sounds to go with it, there’s also an alfresco dining area. 

 

The Intercontinental Bangkok Sukhumvit has reopened for the first time since May 2022. Also of interest to diners are the all-day dining at Espresso, the Fireplace Grill and Bar, Balcony Lounge, Summer Palace, Butter, and Humidor, boasting one of the city’s largest collections of whiskeys and cigars.