BEYOND PAD THAI: SPICY THAI ~ THAI CAFE

Exactly one week ago, I had the privilege to sample Spicy Thai ~ Thai Cafe together with a bunch of bloggers. Going to a food tasting with actual food bloggers really got me to step up my photography game, man! Haha! Not that it was any problem because they brought out dish after dish of mouthwatering goodness. I was sooo hungry just looking at the food and don't get me started on the aromas - YUM! I was pleasantly surprised by the not-so-usual Thai entrees and the owner's commitment to authenticity. They use charcoal, even if it requires more hard work, to keep the food simmering at a constant heat because as Mr. Ron Poh said "We do not want our customers to be compromised, we want them to enjoy Thai food the authentic way". Being an avid Thailand visitor, he chose dishes that the Thai people normally enjoy, and no, it doesn't include Pineapple Rice which was actually made to cater to Westerners who are fans of Raisin Rice. You learn something new everyday, no? Anyway, check out the delicious North-Eastern Thai dinner we had and I dare you not to get a craving. 

Hommok Thai Style Otak (SGD 18) - I'm not really a fan of otak (grilled fish cake from minced fish, spices, etc) but I loooved this Thai version which is creamier and more appetizing than the regular otak 

Larb Moo Tok (SGD 12) - The minced pork balls were really spicy, but there's actually a trick to it - you eat it with the raw veggies provided for balance. I was a bit skeptical but when I tried it, it worked really well. (Side note: I think it'll also go well with a glass of Singha, hehe!)

Deep Fried Kang Kong with Special Thai Sauce (SGD 10) - I've always loved Deep Fried Kang Kong. Spicy Thai serves it ala fries instead of ala chips (like the one in Dencio's where I've first tried it and loved it) and it's more dangerous coz you just munch and munch and munch. But at least it's vegetable? Hehe! 

Fish Maw Crabmeat Abalone Soup in Coconut (SGD 28) - a really interesting soup dish because  of the various textures that come with every spoonful. As complex as it looks (coconut? abalone? fish maw?), the elements work well together in creating a sumptuous treat. 

BBQ Squid and Squid Roe (Seasonal Price) - I hate it when squid is rubbery, Spicy Thai's wasn't. It was tasty and tender and I admit to having seconds, hehe! They only use Japanese squid, which I learned is sweeter than normal squid. There's also the squid roe on the side and it reminded me of bagoong. 

Lala Bee Hoon (SGD 18) - Clams, clams, and more clams! I love how they didn't scrimp on the clams. The bee hoon has fully absorbed the essence of the clams that you can taste it even if its all just noodles in your mouth.

BBQ Pork Belly (SGD 18) - this dish is sooo Filipino! Hehe! I loved the marinade used which was a bit sweet but best of all, I love the cook on the pork - juicy, soft, and just the right amount of char on the outside. 

 Deep Fried Sea Bass with Mango Salad (SGD 18) - probably my favorite from the night! The fried sea bass in itself was good, crunchy on the outside and soft and flaky on the inside, but dip it in the mango salad?! OH MY GOD. Delicious x 100! 

 Thai Walking Cat Fish with Spicy Lemon Soup (SGD 35) - it took every ounce of strength I had to refrain from attacking this dish as soon as they served it. It smelled soooooo good! The taste didn't disappoint too, it was bursting with aromatic flavors. 

Thai Style Curry Crab (Seasonal Price) - if you want a change from the usual Chili or Pepper crab, you're gonna enjoy this Curry Crab. It's spicy, but not overwhelmingly so, perfect if you want something distinctly Thai for your crustacean.

Behind the Scenes. #thestruggleisreal

Honey and her husband, Alvin, Rocket Girl, Farrah, Cherry - Good times with this bunch! Thank you so much to Honey and Christina for inviting us to this culinary treat! :) Had so much laughs with these folks!

our dinner spread

If you want to go beyond the Pad Thai, Tom Yum and Pineapple Rice, Spicy Thai is your best bet. It's reasonably priced and the amount of care they put into every dish is really apparent. It's the perfect spot for your intro to North-Eastern Thai food. 

Spicy Thai ~ Thai Cafe is located at 115 Aljunied Avenue 2, #01-35, Singapore 380115