Review

La Marée is a bright Mediterranean style bistro set in the night time centre of Phuket’s trendy Cherngtalay. It has become very popular, very fast mainly due to the beautiful, exciting cuisine developed by executive chef Igor Sokolov. Born in Russia, he spent his younger years in London and trained in creating French cuisine before joining a number of Michelin star restaurants including the Langham. He has cooked for Queen Elizabeth II and lead official banquet events for the British royal family. Now, 25 years after directing kitchens around Europe, Asia and the CIS, Igor is presenting his best tastes to Phuket. Not only does he offer an exciting menu with changing culinary promotions, but also an unforgettable breakfast to start the day. He is joined by a cocktail wizard, Evgene, who designs some of Phuket’s best drinks and hosts cocktail parties at La Marée several times a month. Chef Igor recommends the lobster from Canada, the oysters from France and the octopus from Spain. Start your dinner with appetisers as the seafood Sicilian style and the grilled scallops with mango and orange. Also try the salmon tartar with mustard sauce or the mixed ceviche. There’s a variety of fresh caesar salads and an unforgettable beetroot, avocado and orange salad, with ricotta and hazelnuts. After dinner drinks are offered to accompany what the chef says is the best tiramisu on Phuket. The Basque cheesecake with passion fruit sauce is excellent.