Review of the Vegetarian Dishes at Gigi Dining Hall and Bar Bangkok
Taking the notable spot on Sukhumvit Soi 45 where popular and trendy restaurant Quince (now located in Chitlom) used to be, Gigi Dining Hall & Bar — a cozy Italian cantina — is a new entry into Bangkok’s dining scene by the same group behind Sing Sing and Iron Balls Gin Parlour in the same lane.
In my online quest for a new brunch spot, I happened to see an Instagram ad (how else do you find stuff / does stuff find you these days?) with visuals of the brunch menu and it intrigued me enough to make a booking right away.
And I wanted to share my thoughts and review on Gigi’s vegetarian dishes from the brunch menu and the regular menu, in case you’re curious or looking to try out a new spot in town.
Right off the bat Gigi’s exterior got me excited. There’s a bright red classic parked outside, which is sprouting a garden — talk about a perfect Instagram photo spot. The vibrance of the farmer’s market-esque automobile is contrasted with the black-rimmed floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the outside.
The interiors are modern and dark yet feel cozy at the same time with the warm sunlight streaming in through the windows. Gigi offers seating indoors, outdoors, and by the bar.
Since I was there for Sunday brunch, I tried two vegetarian dishes from the Gigi Brunch Paradiso.
The Avocado Bruschetta and Strapazzate Egg are tasty, simple and familiar, a true reflection of Gigi’s cozy vibe. The singular flavours and fresh ingredients are what take centre stage. I particularly enjoyed the Strapazzate Egg, which is scrambled eggs topped with spinach and asparagus; I thought it was flavourful and had a unique take on scrambled eggs. The Avocado Bruschetta is plated in a lovely way and I requested for it to be cut into smaller pieces, making it easier to share and eat in a large group.
I also have to add that I was very impressed to see that the brunch menu has a wide variety of vegetarian options — Granola Bowl, Eggs Florentine, Vesuvio Salad, French Toast and Gianduja Calzone — that I didn’t try and would definitely go back to Gigi for.
As I mentioned, I also tried some vegetarian options from the regular menu.
The “pizzette” is Gigi’s version of a small pizza with four slices. The Gigi Margherita and Tartufo Nero (truffle) pizzettes are vegetarian and lightly-flavoured. Again, I have to emphasize the focus is on simplicity and fresh ingredients so be prepared for a more simplified authentic Italian take on pizza.
Personally, I thought the Pesto is the Pesto trofie pasta and Cauliflower Power dishes were the stars from the regular menu. The pesto-infused pasta is tasty with every bite and I particularly liked the short trofie pasta. Even my toddler son enjoyed it a lot! The Cauliflower Power is essentially roasted cauliflower seasoned with an eclectic mix of sweet and sour raisins, pine nuts, spicy bread crumbs, dill and covered in a saffron emulsion and compared to the other simpler dishes on the menu, this one really stands out with its strong and unique flavours and aromas. Definitely give it a try.
There’s also an extensive cocktail list and lots more to try on the menu for non-vegetarians. I think Gigi Dining Hall & Bar offers something for everyone in terms of food and decor — it’s a great spot for family dinners, girls night outs, Sunday brunches, and even private events such as baby showers.
Have you been to Gigi Bangkok? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
GIGI DINING HALL & BAR
Address: 4 Soi Sukhumvit 45 Klong Toei Nuea, Bangkok 10110
Tel: +66 2 662 4478
Website: www.gigi-bangkok.com
Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 17:00 – 1:00
Friday – Saturday: 17:00 – 2:00
Sunday: 11.30 – 23:00
Please note: This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.