You have made a virtue out of necessity. A restaurant on a flooded river in Tailand offers feasting in a water bath. And that’s how it became a hotspot on social media.
Bangkok – Thailand is the rainy season – the mighty Chao Phraya River is also flooded. A creative restaurant owner – with a bar right on the bank – has made a virtue out of necessity: He simply leaves the wooden tables and chairs in the water and offers his guests feasting in the water bath.
The idea is currently the big hit in Nonthaburi – north of Bangkok. “We have 14 tables and are always fully occupied,” says Titiporn Jutimanon, head of the “Chaopraya Antique Cafe”, in an interview with the German press agency.
How did the idea come about? “A few days ago, when some customers were eating, the water suddenly rose. The people didn’t care, they just kept eating, ”said Jutimanon. Some took photos and videos of the bizarre scenario and posted them on social networks. “From then on it was a sure-fire success.”
Since it is an old building, the structure suffers a lot from the water masses. “We have to clean everything and repair damage every day, so that cleanliness and safety are guaranteed for the customers.” However, he does not make a profit because of the maintenance costs – despite the booming business. But the guests are enthusiastic about the ambience. “They just love it. And we are happy to serve you. “
Meanwhile, the situation changes almost every hour – also for customers. “At lunchtime the water was up to our knees, in the evening up to our hips.” If the water rises higher than the tables, the service has to be suspended.
Even if there are repeated floods in Thailand during the rainy season, the current situation is unusual, says Jutimanon. The whole thing is ultimately a natural disaster. “It’s something we accept and face. But we are lucky that, despite the crisis, our customers find their visit to us a pleasure. “
The water spectacle could soon come to an end, the local manager believes: the level of the Chao Phraya will probably have dropped in just a week – and people could eat with dry feet again. dpa
