IT may be one of the most exotic cuisines out there but Thai food needs little introduction. Contrary to common belief, it is more than just fiery dishes. It is rather a blend of different flavors—sweet, sour, spicy, salty and bitter—creating a harmonious finish.
Having lived and worked in Thailand for over 20 years, a group of friends decided to open their own Thai restaurant when they returned home, due in large part to frustration—why Thai food here has to cost an arm and a leg, and why they never get the taste quite right. Hence the inception of Little Thai Kitchen.
The 50-seater restaurant takes pride in serving authentic yet affordable Thai dishes that would transport diners to the Land of Smiles. Here are some recommended items for your first visit:
Tom Yum Goong
Spicy, hot and sour, this dish has an intoxicating aroma lent by the fragrant herbs used—lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal and shallots. Chilis and fish sauce give it a kick, while the shrimps and vegetables make it a substantial main dish that’s best paired with rice.
Pad Thai
Another representative dish of Thailand, this is prepared by mixing in a searing hot wok wide and flat noodles with tofu, shrimp, cabbage, onions, egg and peanuts. It gets its flavor from fish sauce, sugar and chili powder.
Green Curry Chicken
Strips of chicken, eggplant, sprigs of coriander, a handful of Thai basil, and the traditional herbs and roots of Thai cuisine are bathed in coconut milk that’s been stirred with green curry paste. Rice will be required to ladle the glorious broth over.
Glass Noodle Salad
This fresh salad is both sour and spicy with just the right hint of sweetness. Cellophane noodles are dressed with shrimp, ground pork, onions, tomatoes and coriander in a sauce that will leave one wanting more.
Crispy Fish with Green Mango Salad
There are just some food pairings that work like magic to the palate no matter how odd they sound. This is one of those. Fish that’s been shredded is cooked to an unbelievable crisp. When eaten together with the green mango salad served on the side, a wonderful burst of flavors and textures envelop your mouth and you won’t want it to end.
The next time your taste buds are up for a little adventure, do drop by Little Thai Kitchen, open every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the first level of City Soho Mall, B. Rodriguez St., Cebu City.