While wandering down Florence’s many narrow cobblestone-paved streets, you’re likely to come across one of the Italian city’s many boisterous trattorias—traditional dining spots that serve homespun meals in a simple but welcoming space. Chef Manuelo Pintore is looking to bring the same vibe to the bustling Sathorn neighborhood with Giglio, a new trattoria-style restaurant that highlights delectable Tuscan fare within a charming and homey setting.
Located in the space vacated by hip bistro Lady Brett, Giglio features soft, pleasing hues, from the pink tiles on the wall, to a hunter green banquette, to wooden ceiling. Everything is meant to radiate traditional charm but without the feel of being dated.
Giglio is one of very few places in Bangkok where you can savor the authentic flavors of Florence. Start off with the tonno del Chianti (B250). Prepared in Tuscan kitchens for generations, the dish, despite its name (tonno means “tuna” in Italian) is actually made of pork that’s been marinated in olive oil and herbs for some time. There’s also the panzanella (B250), a Tuscan chopped salad with crouton-like bread, onion, celery and cucumber, served with Tuscan bread. Enjoy both these light dishes with freshly made chicken liver paté served atop crostini (B200).
The pasta dishes have also garnered praise, in particular the hand-rolled pici (B380) served with sausage and porcini ragu (the al dente pasta holds the sauces marvelously). A simple chicken supreme dish (B360) is tender and well-cooked, and made even tastier by a sauce with hints of butter and sage.
Save room for dessert. You can’t go wrong with the classic tiramisu (B230) or the baked pannacotta (B200), both of which are well-executed.