Thai Nongkhai, an authentic Thai restaurant located on Macleod Trail, next to Desperados, provides a much needed relief from the dull Thai found in a mall cafeteria. A quick fifteen-minute walk from Chinook Mall, the restaurant is open for both lunch and dinner.
A perfect selection for authentic Thai food, whether one is looking for more spice or more flavour in their curry. A vast selection of choice is available, ranging from mild to extra hot, and if the extra hot curry does not satiate one’s taste-buds, the curry can be made even hotter on request. A medley of vegetables marinate in the curry, along with chicken, beef, or seafood (unless the dish is vegetarian). The range of choices available are so vast that Thai lovers will never get bored, although I personally have a favourite, which I order again and again. Certainly this restaurant will have the ethnic food lover hooked on Thai, once one has dined here it is virtually impossible to choke down the mediocre mall “Thai” food.
The restaurant offers a lunch special, which gives customers a choice of chicken, beef, pork, shrimp or squid in a range of curries. A great choice for a spicy dish is the Kang Phed a “red curry dish with mixed vegetables,” or for those who prefer a milder meal, the Ka Ree a “yellow curry dish with potatoes and vegetables” is an excellent choice. For a delicious and spice-filled tea try the ginger tea, a wonderful, aromatic treat sure to tantalize one’s taste-buds.
Recently the restaurant underwent renovations, it now features a raised, separated seating area, along with getting some new decor. The separated area creates a better atmosphere for the restaurant; diners can feel a greater sense of privacy with the division of the room. However, the lighting is quite dim, to the point where some people may find it
a hindrance, rather then adding ambiance. Also, the music is fairly distracting when dining with others, as it is quite loud and unusual (being of Thai origin).
Nonetheless, this restaurant boasts some of the best Thai food around and a polite and prompt staff. Although the prices could be considered expensive (over $10 an entrée) the ingredients are of good quality, and the spicing generous. Thai Nongkhai is the perfect Thai treat.
The restaurant is open for lunch Tuesday to Friday 11:30-2:00 and dinner Tuesday through Thursday 5:00-9:30, Friday and Saturday 5:00-10:30, and Sunday 5:00-9:00.