No matter where you go in the world you will find Thai food. That’s a guarantee. Be it an upscale restaurant or a simple street vendor, Thai cuisine is a global phenomenon. Distinctly different from its other Asian cousins, Thai food incorporates different flavours and aromas in to one dish playing on several taste senses at the same time. This is perhaps why although the cuisine is widespread not many get it completely right.
In the sunny island of Sri Lanka where one can find almost any type of cuisine, Thai has been one that many have tried and failed to get right. Kudos to those few establishments who have got it right though and maintained their offering over the years. The latest addition to a handful of authentic Thai restaurants is “Nara Thai”, a Thai food franchise that opened up on Duplication Road.
The old building that earlier housed Chesa Swiss was converted in to a more colourful restaurant sporting bright purple, red and gold colour palettes in keeping with the flamboyance of the cuisine being served inside. The outdoor seating area is also decorated with some interesting ornaments and large metal gongs which we are told have significance to Thai culture. Conveniently located and easily accessible the restaurant also scores with adequate parking and easy access.
However, where location and ambiance scores Nara Thai loses out on service. Although the staff is friendly and welcoming, they seem to keep with the laid back atmosphere of the restaurant and take ages to first take orders and then actually get the food on the table.
Thai cuisine is known globally for sizeable portions and Nara Thai pays tribute to this fact by being equally generous. Once the food actually makes it to the table there are no complaints on the feast before your eyes. Much attention is paid to presentation especially with the purple orchids that add a touch of class to the dishes.
Our first dish for the day was a spicy Tom Kha soup which is a lemongrass and coconut milk soup in either beef or chicken. We opted for the beef which was tender and well cooked. The sizeable portion enough for two was thick in consistency and surprisingly did not have a strong aftertaste from the coconut milk. Instead it gives a tangy and spicy mixture of flavours. Next came an array of chicken satays which were also well seasoned and cooked. Traditionally served with plum sauce or chutney, the restaurant has various choices in terms of dips.
Our host for the afternoon also suggested that we try one of the traditional Thai lobster dishes and we were not disappointed with his suggestion of the Lobster Phad Kra Pao or the Chilli Basil Lobster. Although a bit pricy the dish is sufficient for 2-3 people and beware is a bit on the spicy side. The menu is quote extensive when it comes to its seafood offerings and some of favourites we are told include the Pla Dory Neung Manao (Steamed Dory with Spicy Chilli Lime Sauce), and the Kung Tord Kratiem (Deep Fried River Prawns with Garlic). For those who prefer their meats we recommend (strongly!) the Pae Aob (Braised Mutton Ribs with Ceekrong Coriander and Garlic). Paired with Jasmine Rice these dishes need to be enjoyed slowly as the flavours breakdown individually.
No Thai meal is complete without the traditional dessert of Sago Pudding or Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango and Nara Thai serves up healthy and tasty portions of both. The Sago Pudding has just the right balance of sweetness but for those who prefer something very sweet then the sticky rice cooked in coconut milk is definitely a must-try. We personally preferred the latter.
To wash it all down Nara Thai also serves some traditional Thai beverages which you could try if you are brave enough. The Anchan (Butterfly Pea) and Lemongrass juices are quirky in taste and may not be for everyone. If you want to play it safe with the drinks then the restaurant also serves the usual juices, iced teas and fizzy drinks. The perfect combination for the food we feel though is the lychee, peppermint or lemon iced teas.
One of the reasons we would definitely go back to Nara Thai is for the food and the fact that they have truly kept it authentic. All they need is to up their game on the service front and we have a healthy competitor in Colombo’s ever growing list of must-try food outlets.
So here’s our rating…
Location **** (Easy access and parking is always a plus point!)
Ambiance **** (Apparently a professional Thai interior designer was hired for the job!)
Service ** (Friendly but extremely slow!)
Food ***** (A great combination of taste and value for money!)
Overall ***
Ratings
***** We Love It!
**** Got It Right!
*** Getting There!
** Not So Great!
* Needs Serious Re-Thinking!
By #FoodiesSL