Kinnaree Thai Restaurant

As you walk into this beautiful Thai restaurant, the warm welcome transports you to a world that's part real and part make believe, very much like the name Kinnaree itself. Kinnaree is a lovely ethereal being, which has the head and torso of a beautiful woman, with her delicate waist tapering into the tail and legs of a swan.

The décor is eastern, with its touches of the Buddha, elephants, beautiful sculptures and carved screens, but the most eye-catching is the beautiful boat in the centre. This graceful wooden artefact with its dragon head and boatmen is intricately painted and adorned with fresh flowers. The silk cushions and potted plants also contribute to the tranquil ambience.

Like most Thai restaurants, the variety of food at Kinnaree is extensive. You could start with the Thai fishcake of minced fish with red curry, green beans, served with sweet chilli sauce and peanuts or sample the crispy golden bags filled with minced prawn and chicken served with sour and chilli sauce to whet your appetite.

Stir fried vegetables, tofu, duck, lamb or chicken are great options for mains and these can be had with pork, beef or sea food curries. There are the staple favourites of red, green or golden curries and salads. You can also choose from the chef's specials of deep fried whole sea bass, prepared in the South of Thailand style, and served with vegetables, herbs and Thai whiskey or get adventurous and order the exotic flaming weeping tiger, an interesting medley of marinated steak, Thai gravy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, mushroom, spring onions and Thai whiskey, a choice you will not regret. The food is beautifully presented and is a treat to the eye.

Many diners find it a challenge when they have to make difficult choices in the menu, so they take advantage of the set meals on offer. Others simply plan their next visit to the restaurant even before finishing their meal. Kinnaree has been highly recommended in the Taste of England in Tourism Awards 2007, so when you are in Birmingham next, plan a leisurely meal at Kinnaree and enjoy a luxurious experience that touches more than just your sense of taste.