The Smokaccia Laboratory — Restaurant in Choeng Thale

My first fine dining experience, and one that will be hard to top! I would suggest to go in without any preconceived notions, the journey speaks for itself.

They have created an inviting, comfortable atmosphere where you feel like you’re at a friend’s house. The lighting is soft and cosy, and the couch seating on arrival gives you a chance to chat away with your dinner companions over a glass of champagne.

When choosing your seats, I recommend sitting at the bar stools. Being able to watch the magic happening in the kitchen added another layer of curiosity and interest to the experience.

The staff were very professional but also personable and highly knowledgeable. It was inspiring to hear the passion for their mission of sustainability and flavour journeys, you could feel the love and thought put into each and every course.

Hearing Luca speak about his childhood memories as inspiration for the dishes was endearing, almost an autobiography expressed through food. I was surprised when tasting many of the dishes, and even some drinks, that memories of my own childhood were invoked. The nostalgia brought up, along with the cosy relaxed atmosphere, made the night feel like a journey into my own heart. While I was eating with my partner and sister in law, with the nostalgic memories of my family, I was feeling so appreciative of the love and community I’ve experienced throughout my life. The skill it takes to curate a menu that can evoke such emotion is honestly unbelievable. I didn’t know that it was possible.

I opted for the vegetarian menu because I was afraid I would not be able to complete 18 courses of the standard menu. Having tried my partner’s meat dishes, I can say that all vegetarian alternatives were on par and in some instances exceeded. Having savoured every bite, I managed to finish all courses. Even though I was struggling towards the end, the flavours were so exceptional I couldn’t stop if I tried!

Thank you to Luca and Brigitta for a very memorable night, I will always...

During my recent trip to Surin, Thailand, I stumbled upon this hidden gem. They surpassed all my expectations, offering an exceptional nine-course taster lunch menu that I had the pleasure of experiencing. The hospitality at Smokaccia is nothing short of outstanding, with each staff member ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home.

Opting for the beer pairing to accompany the meticulously curated courses, I was introduced to a novel and delightful twist to the traditional wine pairing, further enhancing the dining experience.

Chef Luca, along with his skilled team, took the time to detail the composition and inspiration behind each dish, enriching the meal with stories of local sourcing and sustainable practices. The commitment to a "no waste" philosophy not only highlights the restaurant's dedication to sustainability but also showcases Chef Luca's innovative approach to gastronomy.

The dishes were a testament to Chef Luca's passion and expertise, with "Where is my salad?" providing an inventive reinterpretation of a salad that left me both intrigued and impressed. The lobster course was another highlight, perfectly cooked and presented. However, it's fair to say that each dish presented was a star in its own right, contributing to an unforgettable culinary journey.

Smokaccia's inclusion in the Michelin Guide is well-deserved, and in my opinion, they are more than worthy of receiving a Michelin star. The combination of impeccable service, innovative cuisine, and a commitment to sustainability makes Smokaccia a must-visit for anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience in Phuket, Thailand.

Chef Luca's vibrant personality and the passion evident in his culinary creations make a meal at Smokaccia not just a feast for the taste buds but a celebration of food at its best.

Thank you...

“I love it when a plan comes together!”

Last Monday, We had the pleasure of dining at Smokaccia in Phuket an experience that was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this would not be just another dinner out, but a carefully curated culinary journey.

The evening began in the stylish lounge where we were warmly welcomed. The atmosphere was inviting, and full of charm, exactly what you hope for in a fine dining experience.

From there, we were guided to our table for an 18-course tasting menu. Each dish was perfect in size and bold in flavor. The chef, with a great sense of storytelling, took us on a journey through his past and a vision of the future. Every course was like a chapter in his narrative. It was surprising, creative, and well-balanced.

What elevated the experience even further was the drink pairing: every two course was accompanied by either a carefully selected wine or an exquisite alcohol-free cocktail. It created a layered and dynamic rhythm to the evening, enhancing each bite.

An other thing that that brought the evening to life, was the team (the A Team ;-)). The service was flawless, yet warm and genuine. The staff radiated a deep passion for their craft. Their attention to detail and intuitive timing made us feel truly welcome throughout the entire night.

For us Smokaccia is much more than just a restaurant, it’s a place where gastronomy, hospitality, and atmosphere -in our opinion- comes together in an unforgettable way. It’s honestly hard to believe that this place doesn’t yet have a Michelin star, because the team work at stars level.

A heartfelt thank you for this special evening, chef Luca and Brigitta, and the rest of the team,

You’ve created something...