Yitong Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar opens atop Meliá Pattaya Hotel

Yitong Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar, a rooftop venue drawing inspiration from calligraphy and Gulf of Thailand vistas, has opened this month on the 12th floor of the newly inaugurated Meliá Pattaya Hotel. The hotel itself celebrated its grand opening on 14 February this year, located on Second Road (Pattaya Sai Song), close to a variety of local attractions.

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by a ribbon-like ceiling sculpture installation, presenting a modern interpretation of calligraphy. The décor features a refined palette of gold and black with accents of crimson symbolising prosperity, while floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views of Pattaya Beach and sky.

The main dining area is softly lit, adorned with earthy tones and natural textures, which draw on the landscapes of Chonburi and northern Thailand to cultivate an atmosphere of calm and sophistication. The chic rooftop sky bar is surrounded by lush greenery and provides panoramic views. Additionally, Yitong includes “wellness alcoves”—quiet, intimate corners designed for relaxed dinners and conversations.

The restaurant’s name, Yitong, translates as “together”, reflecting a tribute to the longstanding Chinese communities of Chonburi with their traditions of communal dining. Dishes are served family-style to foster shared meals and a sense of connection.

Paying homage to the heritage of Pattaya’s Chinese settlers, the wellness‑centred food and beverage menu prioritises both flavour and health. Ingredients are locally sourced from Chonburi fishermen and farmers. Organic vegetables are supplied by northern Thailand’s Royal Project farms, which aim to support hill‑tribe communities, reduce opium cultivation and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Signature dishes include steamed Chonburi fish with ginger and lime, promoted as beneficial for heart health and detoxification, as well as a double‑boiled Cantonese herbal soup featuring locally grown Thai herbs, ginseng and goji berries, described as “to heal and revitalise the body”. A five‑spice tofu and vegetable stir‑fry utilises the earthy richness of Royal Project produce. Other highlights include Sichuan Mala free‑range chicken salad with Northern Thai greens and peppercorn dressing, and “Longevity” noodles combining fresh Chonburi prawns with Royal Project vegetables.

“Wellness is at the heart of every meal at Yitong,” said Javier Gimeno, General Manager of Meliá Pattaya Hotel. “We place an emphasis on a nourishing dining experience. Cantonese cuisine is known for its light, fresh and delicate approach via steaming, poaching and stir‑frying to retain nutrients, and Sichuan cuisine’s bold and invigorating flavours, such as chilli and peppercorns, have health benefits such as improving circulation and metabolism.”

The bar menu features signature cocktails that blend traditional Chinese ingredients with Mediterranean bases. These include the gin‑based “Kuaile De”, infused with goji berry, honey and lemon juice, topped with cava; “Chun Hou” with brandy, orange curaçao, lime juice, rosella tea and rose syrup; and “Tian De”, combining Campari, ginseng, Chinese liquor and brown sugar syrup.

An assortment of mocktails is also available, such as “Year of the Snake”, blending kiwi juice with ginger and lemongrass syrup, pear juice and honey; “Virgin Chit‑Cha Toddy”, made with lemon juice, ginger and blossom syrups, oolong tea and cinnamon; and “Chinese NY Rita” featuring yuzu and goji‑berry syrups with orange and lemon juices.

Through its design, menu and ethos, Yitong offers an integrated experience that combines aesthetic elegance, panoramic coastal views and a health‑focused interpretation of Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine. The use of locally sourced ingredients and organic produce reflects the venue’s commitment to sustainability and community support.

With its ribbon‑inspired ceiling sculpture, wellness alcoves, family‑style dining and innovative drink selection, Yitong seeks to establish itself as a distinctive rooftop destination in Pattaya.