Portrait of Christian Martena
i. Biography
Christian Martena works the line between Italian rootedness and Bangkok service, with the kitchen notes kept plain: Puglia first, then Sensi in Bangkok, and now CLARA. He started as a cook at Family restaurant in Puglia, Italy, then moved to Bangkok, Thailand, where he served as chef / creator of Sensi. He is executive chef of Six Senses Koh Samui and founder and chef of Clara.
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Christian Martena in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.
The Path
A cook’s foundation is often built before the title arrives. In Christian Martena’s case, that foundation was set at Family restaurant in Puglia, Italy, before he moved into Bangkok, Thailand, and into the role of chef / creator of Sensi.
The Work Today
CLARA in Bangkok, Thailand is the present focus for Christian Martena.
Signature
Christian's signature dishes include Spaghetti come una Bruschetta.
FAQ
Asked of Christian
Where did Christian Martena work before?
Christian Martena's earlier career included Family restaurant and Sensi.
What recognition has Christian Martena received?
Listed in MICHELIN Guide Thailand (2023).
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Christian Martena in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.