June 1st, 2011
For more than a decade, SPASSO has been one of the “hottest” nightspots in Bangkok. By day and in the early evenings, SPASSO excels as an authentic, high quality Italian restaurant- popular with both business travellers and local executives for business lunches and dinners. And then later in the evenings, when the international band starts playing, the sophisticated , upmarket restaurant complexion morphs into a more lively, party atmosphere as the crowds congregate around the bar and dance floor.
Located on the Lower Lobby Level at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, SPASSO is entered from a circular foyer area- with a feature wall of photos of many of the bands that have played the bar over the years. The floor plan of SPASSO essentially divides down a central corridor- with the main bar, band and dance floor area on the left side, and the restaurant tables in a separate area down a few steps along the right side.
The decor exudes a luxurious air- with a contrast of textures and finishes- glazed tiled flooring, leather upholstered chairs and white table clothes in the restaurant space, and dark timber and black leather furnishings, with timber flooring around the bar area. Wall finishes vary from timber paneling in the bar area, to sandstone blocks and rendered concrete in other parts of the room. Design highlights include the large circular timber bar near the entrance that makes an emphatic presence, whilst at the rear of the restaurant, the counter in front of the wood-fired pizza oven is “supported” by life size bronze sculptures of ancient Greek warrior gods.
The SPASSO restaurant serves a daily Italian Buffet Lunch, attractively priced, with a great selection of dishes, and always well received particularly with local business execs. The SUNDAY BRUNCH is also a hit- with “Made to Order” Pastas, Organic Salads, Home -Made Fresh Ricotta Cheese and pass-around Risotto. The dinner a la carte menu features an extensive selection of classic and contemporary Italian cuisine. Antipastas include bruschetta with beef carpaccio, prosciutto di parma e melone, insalate di mare, and rucola, pere e parmigiano. Soups, pastas and organic risottos are followed by main courses- sea bass sul sale, filetto di manzo ai ferri, carre d’agnello, and cotoletta milanese. And from the wood-fired pizza oven– a selection of pizzas including margherita, capricciosa, prosciutto di parma, and al frutti di mare. Desserts include classic Italian favourites such as tiramisu, baked hazelnut cheese cake, and assorted Italian cheeses, grapes and bread. Espresso coffees plus some speciality coffees- with grappa, galiano etc. complete the menu. The wine list features premium Italian vintages, together with a range of wines from other regions- France, USA, Australia, Chile, etc..
For guests preferring just a drink at the bar- and to join the party with the band- the bar menu provides a full range of cocktails- classics and
signature, premium spirits, wine by the glass, draught and bottled beers, and liquers. Featured cocktails include the MUSICA COCKTAIL– blended from Galliano, DOM Benedictine, berries sauce and fresh lime juice- blended with crushed ice and served in a martini glass.
And the IL PADRONE COCKTAIL is a combination of Jim Beam, Melon Liquer, pineapple juice and lychee syrup- 
shaken and served in a water goblet – decorated with pineapple and orchid.
SPASSO have always been famous for their dynamic “high energy” live bands- mostly originating from USA and Canada. Consistently considered as the “best” amongst the live band venues in Bangkok- SPASSO continues to hold it’s place at the forefront of entertainment in Bangkok. The band currently ( until September 2011) playing – “XPRESS BAND” have previously played at SPASSO– and perform Top 40 and all-time favourites. The band consists of seven musician from the USA and Canada and bring an excellent level of musical and vocal skills, and an invigorating personality to the stage. The performances never fail to get the crowd at SPASSO onto the dance floor and ensure guests have a memorable experience.
Busy most nights- and particularly so on Fridays and Saturdays- bookings for a table are recommended.
See also September 2013 review article
SPASSO – ITALIAN RESTAURANT & BAR
Address: Lower Lobby Level at Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok, 494 Rajdamri Road, Bangkok. 10330. Thailand
Tel: +66.22541234
BTS Station: Direct access from CHIDLOM station to hotel
Website: http://www.bangkok.grand.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/
Opening hours:
Lunch – Daily 12:00 noon to 2:30pm
Sunday Brunch– 11:30am to 3:00pm
Dinner- Daily – 6:00pm to 10:30pm
Live Music– Monday to Saturday – 10:00pm to 02:00am
Cover Charge– Friday & Saturday- Baht 750 – two standard drinks
