Living in the area, we returned regularly and for several years enjoyed Thai New Year celebrations when restaurant owners Naroon and his wife Supatra would include Thai kick boxing and Thai traditional dancing in the entertainment.
So together with four friends we popped out last week and were quite overwhelmed by the warm welcome we received. Naroon and Supatra (who can usually be found in the kitchen) have always be the most genial of hosts – one of the reasons why I have always liked this restaurant so much.
Within minutes of being seated hubby, to the astonishment of our friends, was recounting our first amazing meal at Ruean Thong – he could remember every mouthful! Of course, the menu has changed over time as has the décor and that’s another thing I like about Naroon. He has never let his restaurant get shabby. It has been decorated several times and on this occasion we encountered a warm, rustic interior with fairy lights and beautiful gold accentuated table settings.
After starting with a round of mixed entrees, plus a complimentary plate of six Thai fish cakes – just delicious – we then chose a mixture of flavours. Hubby could not resist the duck nest stir fry while I opted for a crispy pork penang curry. Others in the group chose crispy chicken and cashews and a green Thai curry among others.
Well, I cannot fully express how delighted we each were. While Ruean Thong yet again came up trumps on freshness, flavour and diversity, I’ve always believed dining is not just about food. It’s the whole experience that counts with ambience a big factor.
I really do love this cosy venue. One of the earliest, possibly the first Thai restaurant to establish itself in the district, Ruean Thong standards have remained consistently high and prices are more than competitive even without the specials. No doubt these are among the reasons why this restaurant is still here after 12 years!
And, the early week pricing of $14.90 for most mains during July is exceptional value at present especially as Ruean Thong is a BYO wine restaurant. In these recessionary times it makes eating out an affordable experience and patrons don’t have to sacrifice quality or atmosphere.
Yet again I commend this most cheerful of hosts and have to say he has ticked all the boxes to ensure I’ll remain a regular which really does give me great pleasure. There was a time when quite a number of Times employees dined here at least once a week. Some of that devoted group have now moved away from the district and I shall be sad not to bump into the old crowd.
On the other hand I’m all set to introduce a whole lot of newcomers to this little gem which is somewhat hidden away on Whitford Rd (near Video Ezy) but is well worth seeking out.
