Nipa Thai

Inspired by its name namesake restaurant at The Landmark, Bangkok, Nipa Thai stands out among the numerous Thai restaurants in London even as the popularity of Thai cuisine continues to grow. It is one among the chosen 15 places in Britain to be given the 'Thai Select' award by the Thai Government for restaurants proven to be performing to the highest standards of quality and cuisine.

The restaurant's credentials are impeccable - both the décor and menu are based on those of its illustrious Bangkok sibling - teak panelled interior with furnishings and artefacts have been brought here from Thailand and many of the chefs and waiting staff have worked in the original Nipa.

Chef Mrs Nongyao Thoopchoi was one of the staff who came from Bangkok to open London's Nipa in 1995. Her cooking mainly reflects the traditional dishes of central Thailand, while some of them blend the tastes of the different regional specialities to suit all kinds of culinary preferences. Her curries are of differing degrees of strength, but customary Thai fare must not be predominantly hot. The sharpness of the chillies and the spices ought to be toned down by the sweetness of the coconut cream, which also enhances the flavours of other delicate ingredients and herbs.

The à la carte may open with deep-fried soft shell crab served with plum sauce; steamed minced chicken with peanuts wrapped in a flour crepe, and consommé with slices of beef and bean sprouts. Main courses range from roasted duck in red curry and deep-fried marinated chicken enclosed in pandanus leaves to stir-fried scallops with green asparagus and spicy aubergine salad with grilled prawns. Novices to Thai cuisine could just pop a question to the Restaurant Manager, Kaseam Jongpitikrat, and his members of staff, who will be happy to assist you.

Those impervious to the idea of experimenting could just choose from their three set menus featuring dishes such as spicy prawn soup with lemongrass, chillies and lemon juice; stir-fried chicken with cashews, and sweet and sour fish with vegetables. More information, including full menus, is available on their Website.

"One of the finest Thai meals that I have eaten anywhere in the world" - Richard, Earl of Bradford Website