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The historic city of Hamburg boasts of having over two thousand three hundred bridges, more than Amsterdam and Venice put together, giving you the best of both these magnificent places. Then there is the rich culture reflected in the umpteen theatres, museums, music halls and clubs. Adding an element of class and bringing to life authentic Italian cuisine in this apt setting is the Massimo.

The interior of this restaurant is a classy affair with the white walls and crispy clean linen offset by chrome seat backs. The bar at the far end features greyish blue metallic veneer for the counter. The lighting is soft and contemporary paintings adorn the wall.

Massimo, the host, likens food to a delicate game of love where the presentation is eye catching, starters are heart warming, main dishes - pleasantly fulfilling, desserts a catchy performance and finally the espresso the climax. Another factor is the effort to keep the menu light and healthy. It is this outlook and philosophy which has made his culinary creations popular.

Hamburg's evolution as an increasingly metropolitan city has seen it become a melting pot of cuisines in Europe, and Manee Thai is proof of the quintessential foray into Oriental food that has become quite the fad. However, there is nothing typical about the décor, which offers a delightful view of the historic city hall from its dining room along with beautifully designed Siamese lithographs adorning the walls. Authenticity is also given its due consideration and dishes follow the traditional route.

The fluffy and spicy fish and prawn cakes served with chilli jelly and cucumber relish stand out from the range of appetizers. Soups are always pleasing, particularly the mung bean noodle soup with minced pork and amongst the specialty dishes, the grilled duck with wok sautéed spoon cabbage and whole sea bass in sour orange curry are interesting choices. End with a tropical treat, mango slices with sticky rice and palm sugar and the wine list offers a selection of fine wines that are predominantly European.