Before getting into the goodies Riverside Terrace is serving up over Christmas and New Year and goodies, the Terrace itself deserves special mention.
This is one of the few genuine terraces in Bangkok and a stylish one at that. Open air and overlooking the river with space to enjoy world class food in a lovely setting, it's a rare thing in this city, a calm soothing place ideal for the leisure traveller.
And it's a great place to dance! Actually there are two types of dancing on offer at Anantara Riverside this holiday season. There are regular performances of Thai classical dance on the Terrace's stage which give any meal a certain colour, and then there is guest dancing at Masquearde Party Dinner Buffet coming up on New Year's Eve.
The traditional dances are interesting slices of Thai culture that occur at various points during your meal. A high point is when the dancers get people up on stage with them. Some obviously are better than others but it's a nice Thai touch. The dancers also pose with those who don't want to get up and dance but do want interesting pictures and experiences.
Celebrations, and that is no understatement, such as the Masquerade Dinner Party on New Year's Eve and a little beyond begin at 7.30 pm with a welcome cocktail reception before moving on to an international buffet feast, a live band, performances and a prize draw. What more can anybody want?
The New Year, and if you're at the Anantara you and it are already off to a good start, will be seen in with spectacular fireworks. This is nicely priced at Bt7,300++ each with freeflow soft drinks.
Of all the parties on the riverside this year Anantara's will be the one to beat.
Then there is the Dinner Buffet being planned for Christmas Eve from 7.00pm to 10.30pm.
The International buffet being offered is a snip at Bt2,500++ each with free flow soft drinks. The occasion celebrates Thailand's culture combined with the West's festive traditions. Pride of place will go to a golden brown turkey with all the trimmings. And all means all.
Besides a turkey done to perfection are small sausages wrapped in bacon. The more interesting dark meat is served separately as it should be. No one need feel un-Christmassy with that as the centrepiece of the buffet.
Those wanting something different will have scope, too. One of the delights of Riverside Terrace is mini pumpkin tarts topped with real cranberry berries, an innovation possible only in Thailand but bound to be loved round the world.
The rest of it is also lovable from top to bottom. The sushi is great and the tempura station just too tempting.
Of the Chinese food, it is strange for purists to see Canton's s best export, dim sum, being consumed at night but that doesn't take the taste away. The Sichuan hot and sour soup was another hit and the rest was classic Chinese fine dining also.
The Indian food has to be given a more than honourable mention, too. Aloo capsicum and Chicken Masala were especially good, winning friends galore.
The Thai food of course excels. The salads which are found in two different places both outside and inside are great. Spiced just right, so you notice, but not too much so that the mouth burns and the eyes water.
These are placed right next to the Western salads a pairing that works and will tempt many.
As for the hot dishes, there is a too-die for red duck curry that is nice and fruity and will win friends whereever the recipe goes.
Another feature of this lovely place we commend is the mocktails. Between the main course and the desert, these are a great palette freshener and there is no hesitation in recommending any of them.
The Riverside Smoothie, for instance, is a refreshing mixture of peach, orange juice and sugar syrup. Luckily the lovely ingredients are well-balanced and the drink itself is refreshing without being too sweet.
As for the dessert, you will set your heart on the bread pudding with vanilla sauce galore. That is till we saw the rest of the desserts on offer.
Individual carrot cakes, chocolate meringues and mini strawberry tarts are mouthwatering just to look at, even better to eat.
At the Christmas Eve Evening Buffet, the food will be accompanied by traditional Western music befitting the season with carol singers as well as an appearance by Santa and his little helpers.
It all costs Bt2,900++ each with free flow soft drinks. Pay a bit more, Bt3,800, and you get free flow wines and beer. In short, it's all just right for a group of adults who want to celebrate the season together.
Dinner 6.00pm to 10.30pm
RIVERSIDE TERRACE Anantara Riverside Bangkok. Tel. 02 476 0022 Ext. 1438
