We first crossed paths with Chef Andrea Bonaffini during the launch of 101 Days of Summer Afternoon Tea at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River and it was impossible not to notice how his warm, lively energy mirrored the playful charm of the treats he presented. If you’ve wandered through the elegant halls of Four Seasons Bangkok, there’s a good chance you’ve already delighted in Andrea’s sweet creations.
– Featured image credit: Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River –
Hailing from Torino, this Italian pastry maestro oversees the hotel’s pastry program and guests can sample his genius creations at Café Madeleine and The Lounge.
Melding the mastery of French craftsmanship with the free spirit of Italy, his confections don’t just taste amazing; they aim to amaze and amuse.
But Andrea is more than a pastry virtuoso. His journey reads like a passport-stamped roadmap of culinary brilliance: honing his craft at the three-Michelin-starred The Fat Duck in the UK and founding Taipei’s trailblazing dessert bar Yellow Lemon, to name a few.
When he’s not whisking, tempering chocolate, or experimenting with butter and sugar, Andrea (like many Bangkok locals) loves exploring the city’s rich gastronomic landscape. We caught up with him between services to uncover his #RadarList: the restaurants that make his time in the city endlessly delicious, the Bangkok experiences that light him up, and the profiles that keep him inspired.
Get to Know Chef Andrea in His Own Words
“I’m Andrea Bonaffini, Executive Pastry Chef at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River where I oversee the pastry programme at Cafe Madeleine and The Lounge, as well as the hotel’s entire dessert operation. My career has taken me from the three-Michelin-starred The Fat Duck in the UK to founding Yellow Lemon in Taipei, Asia’s first dessert bar, and working across some of Asia’s most dynamic culinary hubs. At Cafe Madeleine, I marry French finesse with Italian soul to create desserts that are refined, playful, and memorable.”
“Alongside our daily creations, I’m passionate about curating pastry collaborations with world-class chefs, welcoming one to two guest chefs each year. Currently, we are unveiling a limited-edition collection of French ice cream sandwiches at Cafe Madeleine, inspired by sun-soaked Italian summers and crafted with French artistry. Featuring bold seasonal flavours, each handcrafted treat is layered with silky ice cream and delicate marzipan almond sponge.”
“This September, we are delighted to welcome Senior Executive Pastry Chef Nicolas Lambert from Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach for an exciting Cafe Madeleine takeover and a special Afternoon Tea at The Lounge, bringing a vibrant exchange of ideas and flavours to Bangkok’s dessert scene.”
Why Bangkok Should Be on Everyone’s RADARLIST
“Bangkok is one of the most vibrant and energetic cities in the world, a place that truly never sleeps. It’s a paradise for food lovers, where you can start the day with local street food that bursts with flavour and end it with a world-class fine dining experience. The city is a culinary hotspot, home to some of Asia’s most exciting restaurants, bars, and cafés, with a dining and drinking scene that is constantly evolving. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, hidden speakeasies, or riverside terraces, Bangkok offers endless tastes, sights, and experiences, making it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves food, culture, and energy.”
Must-Dine Spots
“Bangkok is full of incredible dining spots, but a few personal favourites stand out for their character and flavour. Margo in Sathorn is perfect for a date or a casual dinner, offering beautifully crafted dishes in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.”
“For authentic Thai cuisine, Charmgang captures the soul of local flavours in every plate.”
“Aunglo by Yangrak in Bang Rak is an intimate, super-casual, open-kitchen yakitori restaurant where the smoky aroma and lively energy make every visit fun and relaxed.”
“When it comes to bars, I love Messenger Service in Chinatown, a cosy hideaway with creative cocktails and an atmosphere that feels like a secret worth keeping.”
“For something truly unique, Fridge and Oven: Bake Along near Mahanakhon Tower is a must-visit; with only two seats, it’s as personal as it gets.”
“And once a month, I make my way to Yamani Shoten, a small Japanese izakaya beloved by expats where the food is comforting and the welcome is always warm.”
Must-Try Bakeries & Cafes
“As much as I love creating desserts, I also love discovering them around the city. One of my favourite spots is HUGS, a Japanese café in Songwat run by a Japanese couple. It’s an easy-going place for all-day breakfast, lunch, and of course, dessert. Their Tonka Bean Basque Cheesecake is a standout; rich, fragrant, and perfectly balanced, and I’m equally fond of their simple yet delicious matcha cookie and refreshing house-made crafted cola.”
“For gelato, Hey Gelato in Chinatown is my weekend go-to with my wife and child. It’s always a sweet family ritual.”
“Sauvage is another gem where the French Miso Caramel Flan and SV Chocolate Cake are indulgences worth every bite.”
“And for a taste of Italy, Grazia is truly special; the owner has transformed his home into a cosy café serving authentic gelato that takes me right back to summers in Italy.”
Must-Do Activities
“When I’m not in the kitchen, I love staying active and exploring the city. I often play tennis at The British Club, which offers excellent facilities and a welcoming community. For a slower pace, Lumpini Park is my favourite spot for jogging or walking with my family, there’s something truly refreshing about being surrounded by greenery in the heart of Bangkok.”
“I also enjoy spending time in Songwat, a neighbourhood where heritage meets creativity. Its beautifully preserved architecture, independent shops, and vibrant café culture make it a joy to explore. One of my favourite stops is A Keen House, a coffee shop in One Bangkok, the new shopping and lifestyle centre. I often pause there for a coffee and soak in the lively and inspiring atmosphere.”
Must-Follow Profiles
“Bangkok is full of inspiring individuals who bring creativity, passion, and a fresh perspective to everyday life. I enjoy following @Junejuneeeeh (Khun June) for her charming lifestyle posts and heartwarming glimpses of her family life.”
“@eatchillwander (Khun Nat) shares inspiring travel and lifestyle content that always sparks curiosity.”
“For food inspiration, I love @tastytravelers (Khun Polly), whose foodie adventures make me want to explore every corner of the city.”
“I also follow @popdot (Khun Akekluk) for his unique lifestyle perspective and @snapbeforeeat (Khun Prang), who shares thoughtful insights into Bangkok’s food scene and recently highlighted exciting new places she visits.”
“These profiles are not only fun to follow but also constantly remind me of the vibrant, creative energy of the city.”