Delve into the unique Grotto and discover an excellent dining establishment in Krabi. Imagine dining amidst a captivating natural amphitheatre crafted by Mother Nature, where the enchanting limestone formations blend seamlessly with gourmet cuisine. Welcome to Rayavadee Krabi, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and its hidden gem, ‘The Grotto‘.

Nestled within Krabi, Thailand, Rayavadee stands as a beacon of luxury and culinary excellence. Among its exceptional dining options, the Grotto dining experience takes centre stage, offering guests an extraordinary journey into a million-year-old limestone cave-turned-restaurant.

Set against the backdrop of verdant foliage and breathtaking limestone cliffs, the Grotto at Rayavadee immerses diners in a captivating ambience. Descending a winding pathway, guests enter the natural limestone cave adorned with flickering candles that lead to a truly remarkable dining space. With its secluded location and serene atmosphere, the Grotto provides an intimate and enchanting setting for a memorable dining experience.

From Earth’s Cradle to Culinary Heaven: The Grotto’s Tale in Krabi

The Grotto’s menu provides an eclectic narrative of culinary craftsmanship, a journey that begins with the selection of a preferred set menu, either individual or sharing.

Appetisers range from the delightful tang of Tuna Tataki, drizzled with a zesty ginger coconut coulis and a satisfying crunch of rice crisps, to the sumptuous Wagyu Beef Carpaccio, garnished with a melange of herbs, Parmesan, and a subtle hint of truffle oil. If a nod to Mediterranean cuisine is what you crave, the Beetroot appetiser with buffalo mozzarella, vintage balsamic vinegar, and basil arugula pesto offers a tantalising start to your meal.

As for the main course, the menu is a symphony of flavours, with the star of the show being the Charbroiled Andaman Lobster. Brushed with a blend of miso butter, garlic, and yuzu, it offers a succulent feast for seafood lovers. The Australian Wagyu Striploin, with a marbling score of 5-6, satisfies the taste buds of discerning food connoisseurs. The inclusion of the adventurous Beef & Prawn dish, where Wagyu beef fillet meets jumbo tiger prawn, brushed with the same delectable blend as the lobster, signifies an enticing fusion of land and sea.

 

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For those seeking a shared culinary experience, the Australian Beef Tomahawk offers a hearty feast, while the 7-hour slow-braised Milk-fed Lamb Shoulder is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to the slow food movement. Seafood aficionados will be captivated by the Wood-Fired Seafood Platter, a luxurious assortment of oceanic bounty. And let’s not forget the Wood-Fired Salt-Crusted Whole White Snapper, its flavour intensified by the accompanying Thai spicy seafood, truffle aioli, and sweet peanut sauce.

The menu’s dessert selections serve as a crowning finale to this gastronomic journey. Whether it’s the tropical allure of the Mango passion espuma with a dollop of vanilla panna cotta in the ‘Tropical Bliss’, the delectable combination of dark chocolate mousse and young coconut sorbet in the ‘Bounty’, or the caramelised pineapple accompanied by young coconut sorbet, each dessert is a masterpiece of flavour, texture, and presentation.

Rayavadee, The Grotto and the Andaman Sea – A Feast for the Eyes

The dining experience at The Grotto is further heightened by panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, the distant islands, and the dramatic rock formations of Phranang Beach. As the sun sets, painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson, the Grotto transforms into a magical dining space that offers a feast for the senses. This symphony of colours, combined with the cave’s unique ambience, creates an unforgettable dining experience.

 

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While the Grotto is a must-visit restaurant for its extraordinary setting and gastronomic delights, Rayavadee also offers an array of other exceptional dining options. The Raya Dining experience presents an elegant blend of Thai and Western flavours, featuring a menu highlighting seasonal ingredients. Krua Phranang offers a more casual ambience, where guests can savour authentic Thai cuisine while enjoying the sea breeze. Each restaurant within Rayavadee presents its own distinct charm, showcasing the resort’s commitment to providing a diverse and exceptional culinary journey.

The resort’s unparalleled location grants guests the opportunity to partake in thrilling activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, and exploring nearby islands, enriching their overall experience. Beyond the enchanting limestone cocoon of the Grotto, a world of exploration and natural wonders awaits. ◼

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© This article was first published online in June 2023 – World Travel Magazine.