Nava Thai

Nava Thai is located in the lovely village of Stedham, just two miles from Midhurst and delivers authentic Thai fare right in the heart of the West Sussex countryside. Proprietor Mudita Karnasuta ensures that dishes are prepared using traditional techniques that always have been a part of Thailand's culinary legacy. She teaches Thai cooking and has even produced a video called Simply Thai.

With ten non-vegetarian starters such as cod fishcakes, pork spare ribs and squid rings there are plenty of choices, while vegetarians can enjoy spring rolls and deep fried vegetables served with tangy sauces. One can order meat soups or the special seafarer's poh-taek soup, served in a fired pot to keep it piping hot.

Once your taste buds are tickled, do have some coconut based Thai curries along with rice or noodles. You can also try the medium hot chicken, beef and duck preparations in bamboo shoot and fruit gravy. The main course menu is neatly segregated into different sections based on the meat or seafood used and has forty dishes to choose from.  With chicken or pork, stir-fried with chillies and hot basil leaves, beef fried with broccoli, garlic and vegetables, the tantalising list seems endless. The ped yang or special roast duck with pickle, ginger and cucumber deserves a mention.

It is a great feeling to tuck in heartily, knowing that a portion of your bill is used to help underprivileged children in Thailand by providing them an education, a cause the restaurant is committed to and supports through its trust. If the meal has proved to be enjoyable and consequently you wish to try your hand at Thai cooking, you can buy not just the ingredients needed, but also get advice on how to use these at the little store within the restaurant.