Review

Tre Trattoria is a hidden gem in the Banyan Tree Phuket complex of villas situated in a boutique dining pavilion on the edge of one of the resort’s lagoons. Arrival is by private golf cart that twists and turns through the lush manicured landscape as an intriguing introduction to a wonderful dining experience. Chef Herb Faust greets guests as the culinary adventure begins. It feels essential to sample a cocktail while exploring the dinner menu. Lemon sgroppino with gin, limoncello and prosecco or ciliegia daiquiri with rum, maraschino, grapefruit and lime juice help prepare the palate for the rich flavours ahead. Popular Italian antipasti such as creamy burrata with farm tomatoes, nuts, seeds and basil and vitello tonnato, thinly sliced veal covered in a creamy, savoury sauce made with tuna, anchovies and capers is a delightful start and shows the chefs talent with Italian cuisine. Pasta is celebrated in a lamb and rosemary ragu with pappardelle and with ricotta gnocchi, gorgonzola cream and tomato sugo. Shaved fresh truffles can be added to any dish. Rich and satisfying is veal osso bucco with parmesan polenta and gremolata, as are the many options of imported Australian beef and fresh Phuket seafood. Wines, including a pinot noir from Marlborough, New Zealand, have been chosen to match the flavours as the meal progresses.