Spaghetti with Lobster – Portofino, Le Méridien

Spaghetti with Lobster in brandy-tomato sauce by Chef Jacopo Di Michele at Portofino, Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort, Karon.

Spaghetti with Lobster

by Chef Jacopo Di Michele, Portofino – Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort, Karon

At Portofino, the Italian restaurant of Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort, Chef Jacopo Di Michele creates authentic coastal flavors inspired by his native Italy. This Spaghetti with Lobster balances the sweetness of fresh Maine lobster with brandy, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs — a true Mediterranean celebration on Phuket’s shoreline.

Ingredients

1 (1 lb) live Maine lobster
3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
1 cup brandy
1 cup tomato sauce
4 ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
12 oz spaghetti
4 sprigs of parsley and basil, trimmed and chopped
Salt to taste

Method

  1. Humanely kill the lobster by plunging a knife into the head just behind the eyes.

  2. Separate claws and tail.

  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  4. Add lobster pieces and any juices with garlic; cook while turning gently.

  5. Add brandy to the flambé and cook until the alcohol evaporates.

  6. Stir in tomato sauce and fresh tomatoes; simmer until the mixture thickens slightly.

  7. Season with salt.

  8. Meanwhile, boil spaghetti in salted water until just tender.

  9. Drain and toss pasta into the sauce, coating well. Cook a few minutes more to blend flavors.

  10. Garnish with parsley and basil before serving.

Chef Jacopo Di Michele

Executive Chef at Portofino, Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort – Karon

Chef Jacopo Di Michele began his culinary journey on Italy’s east coast, working in hotel kitchens from the age of 14 before moving to Ibiza to cook for Europe’s elite. He later owned his own restaurant in Italy and led kitchens across Spain, Thailand, and Myanmar.

Now at Le Méridien Phuket Beach Resort, Chef Jacopo has elevated Portofino’s reputation through Michelin-inspired guest chef events and refined wine dinners. His signature dishes celebrate authentic Italian ingredients with contemporary precision.