Along the shores of Hua Hin, Azure, located within the InterContinental Hua Hin Resort, offers a dining experience that blends coastal elegance with modern comforts. Entering the light-filled interior, guests are captivated by the panoramic ocean vistas framed through expansive windows, while whimsical murals of marine life set an imaginative tone that complements the refined decor. On the covered terrace, diners can savor the fresh sea breeze and stunning views as they indulge in locally-sourced seafood and authentic Western and Thai specialties. From its breathtaking setting to its artful design, Azure exudes an undeniable allure.
Experiencing one of the best Caesar salads in Thailand was the first of many delights of the evening. The salad chef, with a practiced hand, assembled the dish tableside, starting with a blend of anchovies, lemon juice, egg yolk, and olive oil to create a luxuriously creamy Caesar dressing. As the emulsion thickened, the chef tossed in the romaine leaves, evenly coating them before adding a generous amount of shredded parmesan, crisp bacon, and homemade sourdough croutons. The first bite was a revelation, with the lemon-kissed dressing dancing across the tongue, the parmesan adding depth and richness, and the romaine maintaining its satisfying crunch.
Next was the Tuna Crudo, with jalapeños, Sunkist oranges, pistachios, cracked black pepper, and olive oil. The sashimi-grade tuna, fresh caught from the Andaman Sea, was so thinly sliced it was translucent. Each bite was velvety and fresh, the jalapeños adding just the right amount of heat, balanced by the citrusy burst of the orange slices. The pistachios brought a delightful crunch that complemented the silky texture of the fish, showcasing simplicity and innovation.
Our last appetizer was a Burrata, served over pickled beet-root, with crispy Kumara chips, and a lemon vinaigrette. The creamy, delightful cheese, with its outer shell of solid mozzarella encasing a mixture of cream and shreds of mozzarella, sat over thin layers of pickled beetroot that was first roasted in a honey sauce. Cutting into the Burrata allowed the creamy center to ooze out, unleashing a myriad of wonderful flavors and textures when combined with the earthy beetroot and lemony vinaigrette.
We then moved into the mains with a very flavorful BBQ Octopus, marinated in a local herb sauce and served with lemon butter, chili oil, and a petit herb salad. This dish stimulated the senses, showcasing the mastery of blending bold flavors with delicate accents. The octopus was expertly prepared, tender yet with a satisfying chew that burst with freshness. The local herb sauce marinade imbued the octopus with a spicy, fragrant, earthy complexity, while the lemon butter’s rich creaminess and citrusy tang enhanced and balanced the spiciness. The chili oil provided an extra bit of heat, accentuating the flavor of the octopus, and the petit herb salad was a perfect counterpoint, lightening the intensity.
Next came a decadent dish that perfectly married the seafood flavors of lobster with a saffron-infused risotto. Succulent lobster crowned the dish, its tender and sweet flesh complemented by the smooth, velvety consistency of the risotto, showcasing the chef’s skill.
Our final main for the evening was Surf and Turf, the ultimate indulgence for the discerning palate. Azure’s take on this signature dish featured huge tiger prawns, scallops, and wagyu beef, delivering a symphony of flavors and textures. The tiger prawns, colossal in size, were grilled to perfection, their natural sweetness enhanced by a delicate smoky char. The scallops seared beautifully, boasted a buttery and tender interior that melted in the mouth. Included in the Surf & Turf experience are roasted potatoes, a refreshing caprese salad, and a perfectly chilled Peroni beer straight from the tap.
No meal is complete without a sweet finale or two, and Azure did not disappoint. The restaurant’s signature dessert is their Vanilla Bean Gelato accompanied by pear tartare, coconut snow, and pear gel with a candied coconut crumble. Exquisitely combining timeless flavors with innovative textures, each spoonful of gelato adorned the palate with a rich, delicate creamy texture, complemented by the refreshing fruity contrast of the pear tartare and the complexity of the coconut snow.
And last, but not least, Mango Tango. The homemade mango semifreddo was a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, its smooth and creamy texture blending expertly with the tropical mango flavor. The candied walnuts provided a delightful crunch and rich, nutty flavor, pairing with the mango perfectly, with the dessert crowned with a fresh waffle cone.
As the sun faded, casting a warm glow over the tranquil shores, our experience at Azure left an indelible mark. From the breathtaking setting to the exceptional cuisine, every element exceeded expectations. This was truly a meal that would linger in the memory, inspiring us to return and bask in the coastal elegance and culinary mastery that defines Azure.
Azure Restaurant
IntertContinental Hua Hin Resort
33 33 Petchkasem Rd, Hua Hin
032 616999