The story
Within the Royal Cliff Beach Hotel on Pattaya's southern headland, the Royal Grill Room & Wine Cellar holds a distinction that sets it apart from every other restaurant in Thailand: its own underground wine cellar. That singular feature is not mere decoration — it shapes the entire experience from the moment guests arrive.
The cavern beneath the dining room houses more than 1,000 new and old-world wine labels, each hand-selected by the restaurant's in-house sommelier. Before dinner, guests are invited to descend into this underground space for pre-dinner wine and canapés — a quiet, atmospheric ritual that gives the evening a sense of occasion without theatrics. The sommelier is on hand throughout to guide personalised wine and food pairings, whether from the gourmet set menu or à la carte selections.
This dedication to wine has earned the restaurant a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, a recognition that reflects the depth and curation of a cellar that takes years to build. The restaurant is also accredited by the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the international gastronomic society with roots in classical French culinary tradition — a credential that speaks to the kitchen's commitment to quality.
The menu centres on premium imported meats and seafood, prepared with the care that defines serious European fine dining. Gourmet set menus are available with or without wine pairings, giving guests flexibility without compromising the experience. The indoor dining room seats up to 80 guests in an opulent setting, while an outdoor terrace offers a different pleasure entirely — evening meals taken as the sun drops over the Gulf of Thailand.
For those who prefer an intimate gathering, the wine cellar itself accommodates up to 12 guests, making it one of the more unusual private dining settings in the region.
Smart casual dress is required — no shorts — which signals the tone accurately: formal enough to feel special, relaxed enough to enjoy. European cuisine here is treated with genuine seriousness, from the sourcing of ingredients to the structure of the wine list. For anyone in Pattaya looking for a dinner that rewards attention, this is the address.
Recognition
Ambience
Location