Kitima at the Kronendal is situated in an old Cape-Dutch style homestead dating back to the 17th Century. Several hundred years ago, the Dutch East India Company traded between Europe, the Cape of Good Hope and Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Siam. At Kitima we are re-creating the romance of this era, when the refinements of an eastern way of life were imported to the west for the very first time.
Legend tells that the homestead is haunted by Elsa Cloete, a young girl who fell in love with an English soldier. Her father did not approve of their union and forbid the young couple from marrying. It is said that Elsa died of a broken heart. In keeping with the Thai tradition of offering food to spirit, a table is laid every night with food and wine so that the lovers might dine together.
All our dishes are created with the utmost care by our highly accredited team of Thai chefs, led by Chef Kuan Lai and chef Nitas Yotha. The ingredients are sourced from the best local suppliers where possible – otherwise they are imported from Thailand specifically for Kitima.