The buzz: Owned by Anthony Kranepuhl, whose been working on the service side of things at Four Seasons Hotel, Melange is a new family-friendly restaurant serving up comfort dishes on the lively Ekkamai Soi 10. What sets it apart is that Anthony and his partner have converted a house complete with outside pool to be a welcoming spot for visitors to dine, swim or even throw a pool party. Oh, and canine friends are welcome, too.

The decor: Dining takes place on the first floor of the house, where you’re ensconced by warm wood. Most tables are quite big, suited for groups of friends and family gatherings. Outdoors things get a bit more exciting with white wooden seats and wicker swings hung from trees amid some nice greenery and the 14-meter pool.

The food: The menu focuses on Western and Thai classics, many of which are served in portions for sharing, like the oven-baked mussels with garlic butter and parmesan cheese (B280) or the Four Cheese pizza (B260). For dinner by the pool, you can try the chicken Normandy (sauteed chicken in stew served with green apple rings and fettuccini on the side, B380) or a tenderloin steak (B980). Lunch is also catered for in single dishes like spaghetti carbonara (B280) and namprik platoo (chili paste with mackerel, B350). Early risers can drop by from 7am for breakfast staples like omelet (B35), scrambled eggs (B35) and khao tom gung (B250) or opt for the set with two eggs, sausage, ham, cheese, waffle with coffee or tea (B230). Dog lovers, keep an eye out for snacks for your pooch coming soon.

The drinks: The drink list covers coffee and juice through to booze. Espresso starts at B60 while hot tea is B50. Cocktails (from B170) include the frozen pomegranate margarita (B200), while there are also non-alcoholic options like the Melange Beach Soda. Beers are Memminger Weissbier (B140) and Thai standards, which start at B80. You can also kick back poolside with wine by the glass at B150 or by the bottle at B770.

The crowds: Families and friends looking to gather in a space far less pretentious than most in this swanky neighborhood, plus white collar workers at lunch time on weekdays. Wanvida Jiralertpaiboon