Restaurants Review (Sec 09)
“Patara Fine Thai Cuisine Thonglor”
Patara is synonymous with Thai fine dining, and one of Thong Lor's most elegant and classic options for enjoying Royal Thai cuisine. Founded by noted restauranteur Khun Patara Sila–On, the highly successful establishment has branches in Singapore, Beijing, Vienna, and several branches in London, along with this refined, yet intimate branch in Bangkok. The restaurant is located in an old Thai home set along a quiet leafy soi, and has both an open-air garden as well as a stylish interior plus a private dining area upstairs, as Patara is quite popular with corporate groups and the expat Japanese community that is found in the neighborhood. The menu is extensive, covering all of the finest aspects of central and Royal Thai cuisine, and you'll probably need several visits to start making a dent in it. Standouts include the pla kapong luisuwan, an entire fried sea bass smothered in Thai herbs, with outstanding flavors of lemongrass, mint, mango, and chilies. Also high on the list is the grilled Kurobata pork belly with macuna beans and young tamarind leaves, served in a rich and succulent curry broth. The neua tom kati slow braised beef in perfumed coconut herbs and mint sauce is also delightful, again served with a burst of Thai flavors including plenty of fresh lemongrass. All the produce here is organic, coming from the Royal Project, most of the meat is organic herb fed, and the quality of all ingredients is to be admired. Make sure to save room for dessert too, as the creme brulee infused with passion fruit meringue sauce is worth several trips to Patara alone, as is the home made coconut ice cream. The restaurant is popular with both foreigners and Thais, is English friendly, and is certainly a great spot for a romantic date or special occasion. Prices are on the high side, but are par for the course given the high end ingredients, along with the elegant cuisine and surroundings.
Tanyasiri Sukkeerin 5710202 (sec 09)