PaLeTa: Iberico, Wine, Bar — Restaurant in Si Lom Subdistrict

I was very disappointed with my visit to this Spanish restaurant PaLeTa in Bangkok. First of all, I was shocked that they do not allow you to bring your own wine unless it carries a Thai tax stamp, while most other establishments in the city accept imported bottles without an issue. That already left a bad impression.

The food sadly did not recover the experience. The paella, which should be the highlight of a Spanish menu, was honestly the worst I’ve ever had. The rice was dry, some parts were actually burned, and the portion was quite small for the price. Yes, the pimientos were tasty—but that’s hardly an achievement. The pasta was good, but if I want pasta, I would prefer to go to an Italian restaurant. The steak was flavorful as well, but for a proper steak, I’d much rather visit an actual steakhouse. Overall, while the place has a cosy atmosphere, I will not be returning. Bangkok has better Spanish restaurants that deliver more authenticity and care. I truly cannot understand all the glowing reviews—perhaps those people have never been to Spain, nor compared this spot with other Spanish restaurants...

PaLeTa doesn't leave your palette unhappy that is for sure . Cute small place packed to the gills with wine bottles and frying pans created for a unique dinning experience. We tried four of their dishes. The anchovies, yes a must try, are simply fabulous from presentation to flavor and taste. The grilled octopus, every time I eat octopus I feel a bit guilty, at least here the chef honored this fantastic creature by elevating it to an out of the world experience. Next up the pasta with chorizo and bacon. Home run, the combo of the garlic, the noodles, the chili 🌶️, the sausage and bacon are a creation of love. The pork chop was a bit of a disappointment, the flavor was nice and the garnish was clever but the meat was dry. For me the other let down was the white wine by the glass. I saw Sauvignon Blanc on the menu and ordered it but got to taste a Chardonnay . I didn't see that a blend is served up. Bummer as the Sauvignon would have highlighted the food even more, but the Chardonnay left this sweet taste in my mouth which overpowered some of the food flavors.

Not cheap but worth it to...

Mediocre food and appalling service. Arrived to a completely empty restaurant, as we wanted to grab a few bites and a bottle of wine before dinner.

We had no reservation. The staff refused to seat us and kept repeating the place is fully booked.

Eventually we pushed for a table, ordered a bottle of wine and 4-5 dishes. No-one has arrived after us except one birthday party table bit by bit.

So we asked again, when do you need the table back? When is your next booking? Let us know and we leave.

‘We have no bookings tonight’ 🙄

Please do not just spend money on interior. Invest into training for your staff. Your service needs serious improvements.

Too bad, the place looks cute. Would have loved to become a regular as I live nearby, but honestly felt like we are genuinely...