Thai with a Twist

1 Photo

by Victoria Harrison
on Friday, July 29, 2011 12:00 AM

A new addition to the Lapis Group, the "lux lounge" version of Lapis Thai at the Shanghai Centre is open and ready for business. But, unlike its sister restaurants, there's a fresh ingredient in the so-far successful Lapis recipe: fusion cuisine.

There are, of course, a large range of curries, stir-fries and noodle dishes on offer. Kheaw Wan Kai Green Curry with Chicken (RMB88) is a safe option, and the Goong Pad Broccoli Stir-fried Prawn (RMB68) is ideal for veggie lovers. To these are added international dishes infused with Thai flavors. Even dishes like the grilled T-bone is served with a twist, marinated in Thai spices and herbs, and served with roasted potatoes (also Thai-style, of course).

As a starter, the Som Tham Talay (RMB98), a papaya salad with mixed seafood, is light and refreshing; but if you are a chili fan, the Tom Yum Talay (RMB78), a spicy soup with fruits of the ocean, is our recommendation.

You can tame the burning peppers with a range of cocktails, as well as cold South-East Asian drinks and smoothies. Worth a try is the chef's special Thai milk tea, served hot or cold.

For dessert, allow temptation to win through and succumb to the restaurant's homemade ice cream (RMB42), either plain or fried. Flavors such as rum and raisin, chocolate and chili, and rock melon are sure to leave you smiling. And what's even better? There's no reason to feel guilty! All ice cream is 100 percent fat-free.

Lapis Thai's new branch is set for its official opening in mid August, in order to coincide with the completion of their upstairs rooftop, which overlooks NanJing W. Road.
Sitting in the al fresco area of the latest link in this chain, one could easily forget that it's located in the center of town, as bustling traffic disappears behind the shelter of the trees.

Surprisingly secluded, Lapis builds on their strong reputation with another sturdy Thai restaurant.