Lapis Thai

4 Photos

by Rosy Meek
on Monday, July 28, 2008 12:00 AM

Lapis Thai, a new venture from Lapis Lazuli, has opened in Thumb Plaza. No doubt many a Puxi-er will have heard about this index of restaurants clutching onto the outskirts of Pudong and imagined thumb-fuelled gimmicks aplenty. On that score, Thumb Plaza wins hands down with a silver statue's ‘thumbs up' salute as you pass by. And before you palm it off as another decidedly odd Pudong venture, this plaza also has finger in every pie with a fistful of restaurants, bars and attractions for Pudong families.

Lapis Thai keeps a low profile at the far end of the plaza, cleverly using a steamed glass surround to add an air of exclusivity and privacy to diners. A stony aisle leads to an elevator that opens onto a dark, atmospheric space laden with Thai-inspired carved paneling alongside crimson velvet chairs and oversized aviaries holding lanterns and candelabras. Traditionally dressed table staff serve a large selection of dishes with a spice guide marked by red chillis. To test the authenticity of this Thai restaurant, I sampled the Seafood Tom Yun Kung Soup 30RMB which proved a tangy, and ultimately refreshing first course; sour in all the right places with a reassuring kick as you swallow, the juicy prawns made sure the flavours didn't overpower your palate. The ‘2 chillied' Thai Papaya Salad's moist lettuce leaves were a welcome coolant. Succulent Chicken Satay skewers with peanut sauce were a milder alternative 55RMB. To follow, the Shrimp Green Curry was not too creamy and piping hot, moreish and nicely mellowed by plain rice. For those diners with tamer taste buds a variety of Chinese foods are available including Sweet and Sour Chicken and noodle dishes.

Pudong diners fumbling for a fine-dining experience amongst the fast-food chains and snack vendors in Thumb Plaza now have a new rule of thumb in the form of Lapis Thai. With great character in both its food and décor, Lapis Thai's menus are sure to become a well-thumbed favourite