Despite regular revelations about the relative frugality of the Queen's table, there is a tendency to think that royalty commands the best when it comes to cheffing. If this is really true, eating at Absolute Thai should be a breeze with Chef Yui, a former cook for the Prince and Princess of Thailand and more recently delighting the palates of inhabitants of the Thai Embassy, weaving spells amongst the stoves in Covent Garden.

This is authentic Thai food at a high standard and those who have been fortunate enough to experience the real thing in Thailand pay handsome tributes to Absolute Thai. The crispy duck spring rolls are in a class of their own, and if you really like your duck try it roast with tamarind sauce to relish the full flavour.

Without doubt one of their best desserts is the sweet sticky rice served with coconut milk and Thai fresh mango.

Décor is modern without being chic, with comfy cushions, plenty of wood panelling and an air of Eastern dignity and calm.