Executive Chef Alvin Dela Cruz brings a touch of garden, farm, ocean, and grill to the new concept menu
The verdant rice paddies and the mysterious peaks of Doi Suthep provide North by Four Seasons an authentic canvas to illustrate the rich tradition of fire grilling in the inimitable setting of Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. As the restaurant's central fire pit simmers, Executive Chef Alvin Dela Cruz reimagines recipes cooked on open flame where farm-to-table ingredients and premium cuts of meat come together in a fine work of art. "Our concept focuses on reimagined classics that highlight the richness of the ingredients," shares Alvin, as he collaborates with local farmers and artisans for this dining experience. Capturing the authenticity and heritage of the region, the menu is carefully crafted to highlight the finest ingredients from Chiang Mai - renowned for having some of the best produce in the country - while honouring traditional western flavours elevated through modern culinary techniques. "This approach not only supports our local community but also provides our guests with a deeper connection to culture and flavours of the region," shares Sean Mosher, General Manager, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai and Tented Camp Golden Triangle.
Farm to Fork
The crux of this new menu, as Alvin points out, is a local touch in every aspect. "Our key ingredients are either from Chiang Mai, from the Northern region, or from our chef's garden," he shares, highlighting the dinner experience. The simple composition divides the menu into four sections - Garden, Farm, Ocean, Grill - combining a fine selection of sides and desserts to make up for a hearty meal experience.
Authenticity at the Core
The play for premium meats and local ingredients makes for a delicate dance of flavours and Chef recommends dishes such as the Pork Belly and Cauliflower, which features succulent crispy pork belly served with mustard grain jus and longan honey sauce from a farm in Mae Rim Valley, complimented by pickled vegetables for added texture.
Taking inspiration from local flavours, Chef Alvin brings a Thai essence to the menu. "We're known for our high-quality beef, and that's exactly what we highlight with our wagyu option," he shares. The finest cuts of tender, locally-sourced wagyu beef are expertly grilled and paired with fresh, crisp vegetables. To complement the richness of the beef, guests can choose from a variety of sauces, including peppercorn, mushroom, barbecue, red wine jus, bearnaise, and lemon butter. "Each sauce adds a unique flavour to enhance the wagyu experience," he smiles.
"It brings all the flavours together!" Finished with fresh herbs from the house garden, each bite is a harmonious balance of light, zesty, and savoury, offering a taste of the sea with a vibrant Thai twist.
Quality Ingredients
As with any grill concept, the focus is equally on seasonal vegetables and seafood, as well as the finest cuts of meat. Guests at North by Four Seasons can select from a variety of premium beef options, each known for its exceptional quality from different renowned regions, allowing for a delightful tasting experience where they can sample and compare the unique flavours.
"This is more than just a meal - it's an exploration of global excellence," he remarks. On the menu, the Roasted Bone Marrow is a winner, featuring caramelised onions and roasted garlic. "Spread it over crisp, char-grilled baguette slices, allowing the smoky crunch to contrast with the silky marrow for a luxurious burst of flavour."
Another standout on the menu is the Half Rotisserie Chicken, perfectly seasoned and slow roasted to let the wood's rich flavours infuse the meat, keeping it tender, juicy, and succulent. The slow-roasting technique achieves a crispy, golden skin while maintaining the meat's tenderness and juiciness. "Each bite reveals layers of flavour, enhanced by a blend of aromatic herbs and spices - whether enjoyed on its own or with your favourite sides," says the chef. "Every ingredient in our menu at North by Four Seasons tells a story and we invite guests to be a part of this culturally-rooted narrative."
Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience at Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai. For reservations, reach out at 053 298 181, email fb.chiangmai@fourseasons.com, or connect via the FS Chat App.