If you’re on the lookout for genuine Thai food that sparkles with subtle flavours, then Padbok Thai in Brooklyn, Pretoria, should be on your hit list, says Diane de Beer.

Food

This restaurant really aims to provide cuisine as authentically Thai as possible. Not for nothing are they the recipients of the Thai Select symbol, which stands for authenticity. The selection starts with dumplings, dim sum and an excellent sushi offering. But this is Thai heaven, so ask for their famous green papaya salad (som tam) with prawns, chilli, garlic, limes juice and roasted peanuts, or opt for spicy glass noodles with prawns, shredded pork, tomato and onion.

Avo maki at Padbok Thai. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

The open kitchen allows you to observe the preparation of your meal, so you can see them using the freshest of ingredients. Try one of their red or green curries to experience a taste of the real thing (not the diminished version we’ve come to know), but if you really want a measure of their competence, sample one of the vegetable-dominated dishes, like the fried broccoli with prawns, which sparkles with subtle flavours. Think ginger, lemongrass, coconut and chilli and you will experience the essence of Thai terroir.

Drinks

They have a comprehensive, affordable and well-chosen wine list which includes unfamiliar brands like the Ayama Sauvignon Blanc, as well as the Philip Jonker Brut Entheos.

Service

Service is sweet and swift, helped on by the open-plan feel of the restaurant and the fact that diners and waiting staff are easily visible to one another.

The interior area at Padbok Thai. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

Ambience

This is laid-back, easy dining. The space (situated somewhat oddly on the periphery of a busy traffic circle) is reminiscent of a high-end canteen, with polished cement floors and practical seating. The clientele probably find their way by word of mouth, which is a good measure of a restaurant’s mettle.

And…

Have a word with the owner for some recommendations if you want to try some of the more unusual items on the extensive menu.

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