Superb food and warm hospitality that are creatively prepared and generously offered and served in a hip and chic setting are the ingredients that set the stage for a wonderful evening out. This fusion of exquisite and inviting elements provide for a memorable occasion, and is a place that tempts both visitors to Phuket and local residents to return again and again.

That Patong is the place to go to enjoy a wide variety of cuisines and entertainment on Phuket Island is a well known fact. A recent addition to the dining and funtime scene is Jean-Pierre Restaurant @ BYD Lofts, a trendy bar and restaurant that hosts a casual yet stylish approach to good times of a nature rarely seen on Phuket.Comfortable couches with plush and colourful cushions and chairs dominate the open-aired dining area and backdrop for which a casual and enjoyable evening amongst friends can occur. Pull up a stool at the bar for more lively conversations and good cheer.

Often the best meals are those served at the recommendation of the chef. Stephan Bouwman, a three-star Michelin chef with an extended repertoire of innovative and superb meals in Europe and Phuket, prepared a medley of starters and entrées in the open kitchen.

The Large Grilled Prawn with two truffle-based sauces was one of the first of the chef’s delicacies to be savoured. The mushroom condiments were a surprising complement to the prawn with a hint of mint in one offering a unique touch. The Tuna Fillet with spinach ravioli in a Parmesan walnut sauce not only paired different textures and taste combinations but was also a pleasing dish to the eye.

Further joys and delights arrived with the entrées. The Rack of Lamb and Rib Eye Steak on a bed of mushrooms were both cooked to medium-rare perfection. A selection of Thai green vegetables and potatoes gratin dauphinois were ideal partners.

An Italian wine, Umani Ronchi, Montepulciano D’Abruzzo 2005, proved to be a smooth and easy red that ideally complemented the seafood and meat dishes.

A stylish and upscale setting with exquisite food and a warm ambience, make Jean-Pierre Restaurant a place to go to get a taste of that something special.