In many respects, Café Buongiorno is not merely another addition to Bangkok’s Italian dining scene. The gentleman behind the venture, the newly appointed Commendatore Enzo Peroni, is profoundly passionate about what he calls “the place,” despite the fact that he does not actually cook, according to his English wife, Teresa.
“It’s not just a restaurant,” Peroni—who was recently bestowed with the third-highest state decoration by the Italian President—told a gathering of twenty or so guests and journalists. “It’s a café and a lifestyle living space.”
The establishment requires no Michelin star for validation; Peroni, a successful businessman who has resided in Thailand for over three decades, is already recognised as a leading promoter of Italian culture and produce both within the Kingdom and beyond. That reputation in itself serves as a guarantee.
Beyond its authenticity, the menu is remarkably well priced. This writer enjoyed a hearty Tuscan bean chicken soup (180 baht) and a bucatini Amatriciana (250 baht) prepared perfectly al dente, slightly spicy and highly recommended. A curated selection of Italian wines is also available, starting at just 215 baht per glass.
I sampled the Manon (Pinot Grigio) from Friuli Venezia and the Simon B (Nero d’Avola) from Sicily (both 215 baht), both of which offered a fair representation of Italy’s diverse terroirs.
A dedicated section awaits gelato enthusiasts, featuring rare flavours such as beer and Prosecco. A “must-try” is the Café Buongiorno Affogato (160 baht): vanilla gelato drowned in a shot of espresso and served with the house’s handcrafted biscotti.
As the café explains, biscotti were originally crafted for sailors embarking on months-long voyages; they were “thoroughly baked to draw out moisture” to ensure they remained preserved at sea. It is worth noting that these handcrafted biscuits were available at a major Western coffee chain in Bangkok for years—until, according to Teresa, the house refused to lower the quality of ingredients such as almonds, to meet the chain’s price requirements.
Essentially, Café Buongiorno is a refreshing, authentic Italian spot offering fair prices and a wide selection. The black olive focaccia with pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella is only 165 baht, while a ciabatta log with ham and cheddar cheese stands at 185 baht. The décor is tastefully executed, vaguely evoking the warmth of Southern Italy. While the limited al fresco seating may not overlook Piazza Navona, the food is arguably more authentic than the overpriced tourist traps typically found in Rome’s famous squares. Having dined at one such place at Piazza Navona decades ago, I can attest to that.
The writer would like to thank the Peronis for the kind invitation.
Want to see Café Buongiorno for yourself? Find it at Soi Sukhumvit 49, near the Samitivej Sukhumvit Hospital.
