Water Library Brasserie

Established in 2009 by Mr. Pote Lee, Water Library has expanded from Chamchuri to Thonglor and Chidlom. Each dining location is unique and offers a variety of cuisines such as Western fine dining, Gastro pub bar, French brasserie and Grill.

We decided to head to the branch located in Central Embassy to try the French brasserie. The distinct black and white array of tiles on the floor were unmistakable upon entering and the walls were lined with shelves of books and displays of glass bottles: the signature decor of a Water Library restaurant. Reservations were not necessary as there was no line, which was possibly due to the higher pricing of dishes.

Firstly, we were served complimentary bread with truffle butter. The parmesan-topped bread was slightly greasy but paired nicely with the rich mushroom infused spread.

Complimentary Bread with Truffle Butter

Next the appetizers from the 2 set menus (฿990 for one set) arrived. This consisted of Tuna Tartare and Mushroom Velouté. The finely diced tuna tasted crisp and fresh with the coated sesame seeds, parsnip-ginger cream and pickled daikon. Curls of cucumber and herbal flowers were used to decorate the dish.

Tuna Tartare

The manager was kind enough to offer a serving of Risoni Gratin as we had only ordered two sets for three people. Unfortunately, although the texture was nice, this tasted too strongly of cheese and herbs which almost completely disguised other elements of the dish. However, this was redeemed by the mushroom soup with smoked milk foam which had strongly infused truffles and sliced chives.

Risoni Gratin

Mushroom Velouté

After this, our main courses of lamb and lobster pasta arrived. The lamb was served with a sides of sweet potato which was grilled to perfection and smooth buttery mashed potato. The dish was flavoured with miso jicama purée, roasted parsnip and lamb jus. Although the sides were delicious, the Lamb Short Loin itself was tender in the middle but noticeably tougher on the edges. This could be due to the thick cutting of the meat.

Lamb Short Loin

The Lobster Pasta was bursting with flavours from the lightly seasoned seafood and spicy chorizo and chili. Even though the capellini did not seem to be handmade, it nevertheless accompanied the meal well. Our last main course was the Butternut Pumpkin Ravioli which we ordered a la carte. This was prepared in an oxtail broth and was adorned with thin wisps of cheese and edible flowers. It was apparent that the ravioli was homemade as it tasted crisp with its refined butternut squash filing.

Lobster Pasta

Butternut Pumpkin Ravioli (฿360)

Upon finishing our main courses, we were served our Coconut Panna Cotta and drinks of choice. The panna cotta had refreshing hints of coconut in its creamy texture and was topped with a single shred of candied coconut. This was paired with mango sorbet and fresh passion fruit. For drinks, we chose the fragrant Rouge Métis tea and the Jasmine Mandarin Green tea. These were served with their respective teapots and set over heated stands.

Coconut Panna Cotta with Mango Sorbet

 Overall, our dining experience was excellent. The staff were consistently polite and helpful while the manager was gracious and friendly. Everything was aesthetically pleasing from the ergonomically shaped bowls and plates to the meals on our tables. Additionally, portions were suitable enough to allow customers to try different dishes while being satisfied at the end. Regardless of the higher prices, the quality of the food was worth it.

Jasmine Green Tea

 


Water Library
www.waterlibrary.com
Pricing: $$$$
TB Rating: 4.5/5
Recommended: Butternut Pumpkin Ravioli, Tuna Tartare, Lobster Pasta, Mushroom Velouté