Tong Thai is one of Dubai most spectacular (and awarded) Thai restaurants. In fact, the only other Thai restaurant which comes close is the Koh-i-Noor of Madinat Jumeirah’s culinary crown, Pai Thai. Common to both restaurants is the hugely talented Chef Rittiyos, who started at Pai Thai and later moved to Tong Thai. The man is a legend. He is also unbelievably humble and genuine.
The interior of Tong Thai is incredible, resembling a high-end nightclub more than a restaurant. There are a number of private rooms leading up to the main dining area where one can have a drink (and/or a smoke) before, or even during one’s meal. The high-ceilinged, main dining area is breath-taking; with blood red, lantern-like, hanging ceiling lights creating an aura of exotica – sexy, sinful, sinister,…sensational.
Chef Rittiyos and his team have created a simple menu of hand-picked Thai favourites. We ordered two of the dishes we know best (and love most), a Green Chicken Curry and Phad Thai Noodles. From the stir fry section, we ordered the Beef Tenderloin with Thai Broccoli, and from the signature section, a stir-fried Chicken with Cashew Nuts. But before these were brought to our table, Chef sent us a complimentary starter of soft shell crab and pomelo, and hands down, the best Tom Yum soup I have ever had.
The food at Tong Thai is amazing, a true testament to the obvious gift Chef Rittiyos has. That said, I couldn’t help feeling a little disappointed that, in order to cater to an international, five-star pallet, he and his team have had to tone down much of the heat Thai food is so famous for. Of course, ‘how hot do you want it?’ is one of two questions asked when one’s order is taken (the other is, ‘do you have any allergies?’). Tong Thai is the only restaurant I will from now ask for HOT because that’s the only thing it’s not. And with that silly rhyme, I’ll move on to conclude…
The service at Tong Thai is typical Thai; warm, hospitable and infinitely accommodating. Thai cuisine is the epitome of balance. And like the cuisine it represents, Tong Thai achieves its excellence through balance; sensational ambience, delicious food, and unparalleled service, making this one of the best Thai restaurants in Dubai, and well worth a detour. Highly recommended.
Waste NOT. Want NOT.
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