By Sahasni Gamage
Nara Thai Restaurant’s enchanting purple and white-themed ambiance is a feast for the senses, where aesthetics blend seamlessly with the rich tapestry of Thai cuisine. The use of purple and white extends beyond just the walls and decor. Even the table settings and the staff’s uniforms adhere to this color palette, creating a unified and visually stunning atmosphere.
Starting with a complementary starter, Nara Thai sets the tone for the meal with a delightful assortment of crispy and savory bites that awaken the palate. The Fish Salad with Pineapple is a refreshing and harmonious combination of flavors and textures, while the Poa Pia Nara, deep-fried spring rolls with chicken, are a crispy delight that tantalizes the taste buds.
The Larb Pla dish packs a punch with its bold flavors and just the right amount of spiciness. The saucy base, enriched with a medley of herbs, elevates the tender fish fillet to new heights. If I were to encapsulate this experience in one word, we’d call it “electrifying.” Each appetizer was a flavorful journey in itself, leaving us eager for what was to come.
The mains at Nara Thai Restaurant did not disappoint. The Kang Phu, a crab red curry, was a luxurious indulgence with its rich and creamy sauce complementing the tender crab meat.
The Grilled Beef Ribs with Salad & Sticky Rice presented a carnivorous delight, while the Kao Phad Samunprai, Fried Rice with Thai Herbs, showcased the art of Thai cooking with its fragrant herbs and satisfying ingredients.
The Kuay Tiew Tom Yum was a comforting and invigorating noodle soup, and the Phad Thai with prawns was a classic favorite that pleased the senses.
The Phad Pak Bung, a stir-fried kang kung, provided a light and healthy option, demonstrating the versatility of Thai cuisine. Every main course presented a culinary masterpiece, delivering a delightful and diverse expedition into the heart of Thai culinary heritage.
Moving to the selection of drinks at Nara Thai Restaurant was equally impressive. The Lychee drink was a refreshing and subtly sweet option, while the Lychee Iced Tea combined the richness of tea with the sweet notes of lychee.
The Watermelon drink offered a hydrating and vibrant choice to complement the bold flavors of the dishes.
The Sunday Brunch option provided a variety of tantalizing beverages to elevate the dining experience.
Each beverage on the menu displays a stunning array of colors, each glass a vivid invitation to a unique taste adventure.
Onto the deserts the Sizzling Brownie is a showstopper with its contrasting textures and rich chocolate sauce. The warm, gooey brownie contrasts beautifully with the cold ice cream, creating an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite.
The Mango Sticky Rice is a tropical delight that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. Sago with Mango offers a refreshing contrast. It’s especially perfect for those who prefer a dessert that’s not too heavy but still bursting with flavor, while the Fried Banana with Syrup is a delightful marriage of crispy and sweet.
The banana fritters arrive golden and crunchy, coated in a delectable syrup that adds a delightful sweetness. No matter which you choose, you’ll end your meal on a sweet and satisfying note.
Last but not least, we want to mention that the staff are very helpful and kind. They helped us navigate through the menu and understand each element in each dish.
Nara Thai Restaurant exceeded our expectations in every aspect. From the captivating ambiance to the thoughtfully crafted dishes and refreshing drinks, it offered a culinary adventure that celebrated the essence of Thai cuisine. Nara Thai Restaurant is a true gem for those seeking an authentic and memorable taste of Thailand right in the heart of their city.
Location: No. 31, Deal Place, Kollupitiya Colombo, Sri Lanka
Price per person: LKR 3500/- upwards
Check their menu here.
Opening hours: 12AM- 12.30PM
Visit their Instagram @narathaisrilanka or Facebook @NaraThai