What could be nicer than a long, languid Sunday brunch/lunch at one of Pattaya’s finest restaurants?  Not much, we think.  So, when we were invited to visit Casa Pascal’s celebrated brunch buffet we leapt at the chance to be cosseted and indulged in this most esteemed culinary establishment.

This gourmet institution is, of course, firmly in the hands of Pascal and Kim Schnyder who over 9 years ago realised their dream of opening their own restaurant.   Chef Pascal hails from Lucerne and has an impeccable gastronomic background having directed kitchens in world-class establishments in Switzerland, Hong Kong and the luxurious Dusit Resort before creating his own gastro-habitat.

Entering their restaurant is to escape from the hurly burly of downtown Pattaya and step into a tranquil haven of sophistication and gastronomy. Seating in the air-conditioned section includes three private alcoves accommodating 6-12 people for privacy and seclusion whilst the covered leafy terrace can accommodate about 12 for al fresco dining.

The exterior of Restaurant Casa Pascal

A complimentary glass of Champagne on arrival sets the tone for this most convivial of Sunday events.   The cold table is a sight to behold.  Fruits of the sea are lavishly presented including huge plump prawns, rock lobster, Alaskan king crab legs, New Zealand green-lipped mussels, oysters, scallops, crabs and Norwegian smoked salmon all glistening in anticipation of your selection.  The marinated salmon and herring was tender, moist and juicy, perfectly married with a profusion of international salads and dressings.  Together with cold cuts, Italian antipasti (the marinated bell peppers were divine), beef and salmon tartar (extra special) and imported cheeses this whole “no-expense-spared” presentation was exciting and opulent.  The desserts are a Casa Pascal forte and here chocolate mousse, creams, tarts and parfaits compete for your selection or why not try a little of each?

Moving on to the hot items there were two tasty soups on offer (one was minestrone) together with a selection of favourite Thai dishes and interesting international recipes. Flaming steaks, pork tenderloin  and a BBQ assortment are ready and waiting for the meat lover. At the rear of the restaurant an animated live pasta and risotto station provoked our interest, especially the chicken and leek tortellini and the spinach and ricotta ravioli.   Breakfast items galore, the pancake chef expertly tosses his creations and tops  them with fresh fruit and a chocolate or vanilla sauce.  Bakery and patisserie items featuring the best croissants in town and  delicious Danish breads, cereals and yoghurts are there in  abundance to bring another sweet touch to your brunch.  This is a brunch buffet of magnificent proportions and priced at B.899 including a welcoming glass of Champagne.  For an extra B.475 wine and beer will be unlimited and for a B.675 supplement you it will also include Champagne (till 16.00).

The interior has that touch of Class

Casa Pascal’s a la carte menu is superb presenting fine dining with many exciting new options.   The gourmet set menu changes every month and offers a gastronomic experience to remember.   For example, celeriac cream soup with black truffle, marinated hazelnut salmon, grilled goose liver and sautéed mushrooms followed by Alaskan scallops and red sea bream on marinated fennel in a Pernod sauce or roasted beef tenderloin with egg plant and zucchini tartare.  Premium French cheeses or mixed berries in mascarpone cream and a glass of Calvados, Grappa or Remy Martin bring this culinary journey to a spectacular finale.  (B.2,400 inclusive of wines  and B.1,200 menu only.)

Their Buffet is one of the best we have ever experienced

Returning to the Sunday brunch buffet:  at  B.899 ++  you can seriously indulge your gastronomic tastes in a luxurious décor,  blending Mediterranean and colonial architecture designed by Pascal himself.  The attention to detail in this restaurant is extraordinary from the custom designed décor, cutlery and flatware to the well-appointed rest rooms. This is one of the best fine dining restaurants in Pattaya and definitely a special-occasion restaurant.

Sunday brunch  is served from 10.30 am till 15.00 hours.  For reservations (recommended)  call (038) 723 660 or 081 983 4182 (Kim).  Valet parking and a  limousine pick-up service is available.   Casa Pascal is situated opposite Marriott Hotel and in front of the Ruen Thai restaurant.  For more information, and the current Gourmet Menu,  visit www.restaurant-pattaya.com.