Applauded pop-up restaurant “Waiting For CLARA” served as an amuse-bouche to “CLARA”, a celebration of modern Italian cuisine, opened end of 2019 in Bangkok, Yen Akart.

OVERVIEW

12 years after giving birth to the Italian sensation, Sensi, Chef Christian Martena and Maitre D’ Clara Del Corso-Martena have put their hearts into a new culinary venture. From his open-style kitchen, Chef Christian will take you on a culinary journey. He blends his native cuisine with creative and modern techniques using high-quality imported products and local ingredients. The symbiotic couple is sticking to its winning recipe: heartfelt welcome, genuine hospitality, and simple elegance of Clara woven with the palatable passion of Chef Christian’s mastered craft.

More than an ode to Italian savors, “CLARA” is a tribute to Chef Christian’s beloved wife, best friend, and business partner, gracefully working her magic at the tables and sharing their common passion for fine cuisine with a deep sense of humanity.

They now offer a Chef's journey seasonal menu, changing every 3 months, available in 6-course and 8-course.

CLARA has been listed in the Michelin Guide since 2021 and has been awarded 50 TOP ITALY as the “23rd Best Italian Restaurant in the World in 2025” (out of over 50 restaurants). Chef Christian Martena received the award of “Dish of the Year 2023” for his Spaghetti Bruschetta by 50 TOP ITALY. Clara Del Corso-Martena has also received the award of “Maître of the Year 2024” by 50 TOP ITALY. CLARA Restaurant has just been awarded "Tre Forchette" and "Best Italian Restaurant outside of Italy 2026" by Gambero Rosso.

6 Course Menu at THB 3,880++ | 8 Course Menu at THB 4,880++ | Wine Pairing 6 Course at THB 2,680++ | Wine Pairing 8 Course Menu at THB 3,080++. A comprehensive wine list and wines by the glass are also offered by passionate & young sommelier Dawee Pong.

AMBIENCE

While in the center of the Sathorn district, “CLARA” is tucked away in a peaceful Yen Akart residential area. Formerly known as Villa Yenakart Exhibition Hall, the Bauhaus-style villa is staying true to its artistic roots. The five-meter-high walls remain the backdrop to curated artworks, rotating every few months.

CLARA is currently showcasing French artist Rudy Meyer & Thai artist Aimi Kaiya. The floor-to-ceiling windows open to a lush garden, planted with VAL’s monumental and lean sculptures. When the sun sets, Matteo Massevry’s warm and expert lighting breathes life into the whitewashed villa’s façade and surrounding greenery for a mesmerizing entrance. The remarkable space caters to all occasions and moods with multiple seating options.

For an intimate encounter with the craftsmen, join one of the 10 comfy seats of the Chef’s Table, designed by acclaimed designer P. Tendercool and uniquely tattooed by Tantai, a renewed Thai tattoo artist; or perch yourself on the highchairs at the designer’s kitchen counter to feel part of the orchestrated action. Gaze at the leafy scenery from the main dining room crowned by Massevry’s sculpture of lights, or walk up to the semi-private mezzanine for a secluded bird's-eye view. After dinner, cosy up into P. Tendercool Garden Lounge for a selection of liquors and cigars.

MUST-TRY

BURRATA | Stracciatela - Sea Urchin - Fennel - Orange

FOOD

Seasonal Chef's Journey Menu (changing every 3 months) - 6 Course Menu at THB 3,880++ | 8 Course Menu at THB 4,880++

SERVICE

Extremely attentive, impeccably trained by Clara herself, they are on hand to ensure guests are looked after at all times.

PRICING

FOOD: From THB 3,880++ to THB 4,880++ | WINE PAIRING: From THB 2,680++ to THB 3,080++

SUMMARY

Clara restaurant serves exquisite Italian fare and is reasonably priced, in a unique setting offering guests multiple seating options, surrounded by art from local artists.

ABOUT CHEF

Raised in the Puglia region of Italy, Christian Martena discovered his passion for cooking while watching his family hard at work in the kitchen of their restaurant. An aptitude for learning new techniques and preparing innovative food led to him working in some of Europe’s most famous kitchens, before moving to Asia, where he was a chef at award-winning restaurants and ultra-luxury hotels, including Sensi Restaurant in Bangkok, TheStrand Hotel in Yangon, and Six Senses Koh Samui in Thailand.

This wealth of experience gained on both continents stood him in good stead to launch his restaurant in Bangkok alongside his wife, Clara, after whom it is named. The restaurant has gained critical acclaim for its modern take on Italian fine dining.

CLARA has been listed in the Michelin Guide since 2021 and has been awarded by TOP50 ITALY as the “23rd Best Italian Restaurant in the World in 2025”. Chef Christian Martena also received the award of “Dish of the Year 2023” for his Spaghetti Bruschetta by TOP50 ITALY. Recently awarded "Tre Forchette" & "Best Italian Restaurant outside of Italy 2026" by Gambero Rosso.