There is a sense of calm and peace as you step into Oam Thong, situated close to the famous hotel Puerta America in Madrid. It's truly oriental at heart with none of the European influences usually found in many Asian restaurants. With the 'Thai Select' brand award in its kitty from none other than the Ministry of Commerce in Thailand, Oam Thong's emphasis on royal Thai cooking has won the hearts of many Asian food enthusiasts in Spain.

The interior is designed along Oriental lines with a slightly modern touch and the feeling of space is accentuated. The colours of sand, mink and tobacco have been chosen as they add to the natural sophistication. Exposed stone work interestingly juxtaposed with the smooth bamboo draped walls of different shades blend well to create an intimate atmosphere. Lighting has been given prominence with bamboo screen lamps placed at strategic locations to personalize certain tables. Each detail is well thought out and adds its own unique touch to create the right ambience.

Dishes are marked with stars ranging from one to five to indicate the degree of spiciness with number one being the mildest and five the hottest. Whether it's the pad Thai, pork issaan, jungle curry or massaman venison, the menu ensures that all the regions of Thailand are covered. Start with some tom yam goong, the spicy Norway lobster soup; beef carpaccio salad with lemon grass, coriander and lime or marinated spare ribs. Pad Thai, rice flour noodles with peanuts and dry shrimps and mae nam khong, satay chicken with spring rolls served in pandan leaves, are their other specialities.

There is also a wonderful choice of curries such as goong pad nam markham piek, langoustines in a tamarind sauce and Chiang Mai beef curry. The nue oam thong is daringly famous for its countless dry chillies and high degree of heat. Cool off with some glutinous rice accompanied with mango and coconut ice cream or the refreshingly exotic fruit sorbets. There is also a limited selection of beers from Asia.

Thai cuisine is a harmonious amalgamation of sweet, spicy, sour, salty and even bitter flavours and each dish has its distinct characteristic even though they are made from similar ingredients. With a name that means preservation of the best, Oam Thong hopes to provide diners an experience that will remain sealed in their memory.