Discreet Diner and two companions headed for the Siam Star restaurant on Lairgate, having heard it had changed hands and had a complete refurbishment.
As we approached, we shared grim recollections from many years ago when we had visited this building…which was also a Thai restaurant – but I am delighted to report that this place is nothing like it was under previous ownership.
What a delight it is now – the interior has a relaxing atmosphere, subtle oriental music, a serene fish tank and beautiful carvings and wall hangings. The lighting was gentle, tables arranged nicely for privacy and the overall impression was lovely.
We were shown to our table by a traditionally dressed waitress and her service was polite and impeccable.
Although the choice of wine by the glass is limited, we were all very happy with our drinks which we sipped at as we perused the menu.
Eventually we ordered – two of us sharing a set meal for £21.85 a head. My other friend chose her meal from the main menu, where the prices were generally around the very reasonable £7.99 mark for a main dish.
The set menu started with Tom Kha Soup with Chicken – and it was gorgeous! Delicately flavoured with lemongrass, fresh coriander and chilli, and the coconut milk and chicken were combined perfectly. It was excellent in our opinion, and set us up with great expectation for what was to follow.
Our singular friend was less delighted with her choice however – her Tom Yum Soup with Prawn was far too spicy for her taste. Although marked with two chillies on the menu, this nearly blew her head off! Discreet Diner with a penchant for spicy foods agreed, the overall taste was HOT. Sadly she wasn’t able to finish her starter, but declared her main course of Gaeng Massman with Chicken (only one chilli symbol) as “wonderful!”
The set meal then offered upon a gilded raised stand, a selection of starters such as Prawn Toast, Prawns in Filo and so on. These were tasty but the only niggle was that the Thai fish cakes, although flavoursome, had an unpleasant texture. However, the fantastically carved turnip and carrots on this platter made up for our disappointment, it was a work of art!
The set menu then arrived – and my goodness, I’m glad they are happy to give a doggy bag! Thai Green Curry with Chicken, (great) Sweet and Sour Prawns (delicious), Stir Fried Beef (ok…the beef was not as flavoursome as hoped), Stir Fried Noodles with Vegetables (moreish) and finally…Rice (fragrant)
Our companion announced that although her evening had had a shaky start, her main meal was fantastic, and she alone was ready for a dessert!
We guiltily had a little taste of the “awesome“ Banana Fritter as the waitress put our considerable left-overs into containers for us to take home.
What a great evening! What delicious food! What reasonable prices for something very special! What a fantastic overall experience – the Siam Star should be on your agenda, and I’m sure you will be as charmed as we were.
