Earlier this year, Capella Bangkok topped the list of The World’s 50 Best Hotels, a testament to its unique appeal. Adding to its accolades, the hotel’s restaurant, Côte, was recently awarded two Michelin stars.
“It’s the best hotel in the world,” the taxi driver remarks with pride as he swings onto the grand driveway leading to Capella Bangkok. The entrance is nothing short of striking, setting the tone for the experience to come. At the check-in desk, guests are greeted with a glass of bubbly and canapés – a fitting introduction to the hotel’s warm and polished service. The air carries a faint, pleasing fragrance, specially curated to evoke a sense of comfort and sophistication. Capella, like many top-tier hotels today, has crafted its own signature scent.
The interior is understated yet elegant, dominated by calming beige tones. The tranquil sound of flowing water greets you wherever you go. It's both a recurring motif and a reminder of the hotel’s proximity to the Chao Phraya – also known as the River of Kings. All 101 rooms face the river, with 17 boasting private outdoor jacuzzis for a touch of secluded indulgence.
Capella's attention to detail is evident from the moment you enter. The hotel employs a team of culturists, who serve as equal parts personal assistant, cultural guide, and experience curator. Their role is to uncover the best of Bangkok's cultural and culinary gems, crafting tailor-made experiences for guests who prefer their itineraries curated rather than discovered.
Among Capella’s dining venues, Côte by Mauro Colagreco stands out. Helmed by the chef behind the three-Michelin-starred Mirazur in France – at one time crowned the World’s Best Restaurant – Côte has quickly earned a reputation for excellence. Shortly after its 2020 opening, it garnered its first Michelin star, and this year it achieved the coveted second.
Côte fuses the vibrant culinary heritage of the French and Italian Rivieras with the rich cultural tapestry of Bangkok. The menu is refreshingly personal, tailored to each guest’s preferences – a concept that favors repeat visitors, as your experience evolves with every meal. At the helm of this culinary powerhouse is Davide Garavaglia, a long-time right-hand man of Colagreco at Mirazur.
“It’s a tremendous honor to receive two Michelin stars, which reflect the passionate dedication of our entire team. We are deeply grateful to everyone who has dined with us and supported us over the past four years – you anchor our commitment to creating extraordinary culinary experiences,” Chef Garavaglia gushed.
A perfect evening at Capella might end at the Stella Bar, where a striking white peacock – a symbol of Nirvana in Buddhism and prosperity in Hinduism – graces the décor. The ambience is as inviting as its drinks, making it an ideal spot to unwind.
For those seeking Thai cuisine, the hotel’s restaurant Phra Nakhon is a delight. Led by Kannika Jitsangworn, the menu reflects her passion for seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. During the visit, Chef Jitsangworn was exploring northern Thailand to discover new flavors and techniques, a commitment that keeps the restaurant vibrant and Michelin-recommended.
Capella Bangkok’s acknowlegement by The World’s 50 Best Hotels has drawn significant attention. Now in its second year, the awards celebrate excellence in hospitality, following the success of other rankings like The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and Bars. The hotel shares the spotlight with Passalacqua on Lake Como and Rosewood Hong Kong, both of which, like Capella, are situated near water. A focus on personalization and intimacy seems to be a growing trend among luxury travelers.
“We’re seeing people seek out exceptional, tailored experiences,” says Emma Sleight, content director for The World’s 50 Best Hotels.
John Blanco, Capella Bangkok’s General Manager, underscores the importance of his team in delivering these experiences. “We are only as good as our last guest,” he says. “Our goal is to create genuine connections with our guests—a relationship that feels natural and authentic, not scripted.”
Since opening during the pandemic in 2020, the hotel has cultivated a loyal local clientele, many of whom continue to return. With rooms averaging over $800 per night and a tranquil, conference-free atmosphere, the Capella Bangkok stands apart as an oasis in the bustling city.
“We focus on craftsmanship and creating unique moments for every guest. That’s our ethos,” Blanco concludes.
With accolades piling up in 2024, Capella Bangkok continues to define itself as a benchmark for hospitality and culinary artistry.
