A very good year indeed

WATER LIBRARY might come across as a brand of upmarket sophistication and cuisine excellence, but that doesn’t mean these qualities automatically translate into fun, lively and tasty treats. Now, though, there is 1881 by Water Library, enticing fun-loving foodies with yummy contemporary dishes washed down with simple yet substantial cocktails. 

Named after a prominent year late in Europe’s Industrial Revolution, 1881 by Water Library is a casual-dining restaurant and bar dressed in a brick-and-steel retro-industrial look. But don’t expect the food to be all traditional and mundane. 

In fact, the flavours are quite revolutionary and inspiring. Manned by Swiss chef Urs Lustenberger, the kitchen incorporates Western comfort dishes with Asian herbs and Thai flavours. 

Highly recommended are the Crab Cigars served with applesauce (Bt180). The crab is brightly spiced and the sauce is savoury and refreshingly fruity. Another dish that showcases Thainess is Siam Chicken Praline (Bt180), which is basically deep-fried chicken larb on skewers served with slightly spicy tomato sauce. 

Another great snack is Salmon Tatare “Kratong” (Bt220). In a Western take on traditional kratong thong (“golden basket”), the chef uses raw salmon that’s lightly spiced and tossed with toasted rice to fill the baskets, rather than the usual stir-fried meats and veggies. Savoury and addictive, these little nibbles make great appetisers and go well with beer. 

For a more filling option, opt for crispy Kurobuta Pork Belly (Bt320) served with pomelo salsa, coconut, lime foam and shredded kaffir-lime leaves. The chunky pork is cooked sous-vide, then pan-seared until the skin is crispy. The fatty chunks go wonderfully well with the sourness and tartness of the pomelo, the slight creaminess of the coconut foam and the citrusy aroma of the lime. 

The burgers are popular, being hearty and super-delicious. A must-try is the Wicked Burger (Bt550) a homemade beef patty on a fresh-baked bun with Emmentel cheese, mushrooms and truffle mayonnaise. The chef adds “special” barbecue sauce mixed with spices and herbs for an extra kick.

You might as well get a nice cold cocktail while you’re at it. Recommended is the refreshing and cooling Dryberg Flower (Bt280), a mix of Dryberg Blue, elderflower syrup and fresh lemon. For a stiffer option, opt for the LIIT Nitrogen (Bt590). Vodka, gin, rum, tequila, Cointreau, lime and cola are tossed with liquid nitrogen until a big ball of ice cream forms. Enjoy it while it’s cold!

The bar also serves long drinks, wine and draft beer. 

 

 

A DATE TO REMEMBER

>>The restaurant 1881 by Water Library is at Central Groove in the CentralWorld complex. It’s open daily from 10am to 2am.

>>Book a table at (02) 613 1774 or www.WaterLibrary.com.

>>The current Burger Trooper promotion has set lunch menus to choose from – burger, side dish and soft drink for Bt390 – daily from 11.30 to 3.