/ Reviews / Thai
Thai-Pho, Power Combo
by Steph Wy Ng
on Friday, April 23, 2010 12:00 AM
Co-owner of 3Top, Gladys Ho has added another noteworthy restaurant to the Shanghai dining scene. In a large space inside the Kerry Centre lobby on NanJing Road are the twinned eateries of Pho Asia and Thai Loft. The two separate restaurants, although sharing the same kitchen, offer two different types of popular food to satisfy the Vietnamese and Thai cravings of its diners.
"The main concept behind this restaurant is its prices," explains Gladys. "We wanted to offer a place for customers to dine where the prices are reasonable - and you can have a meal here for pretty cheap, especially if you compare our prices to other Thai and Vietnamese restaurants in the city." Though Gladys' first restaurant 3Top vends rather expensive fare, diners at Pho Asia and Thai Loft can expect a faster, more relaxed and cheaper dining experience.
Pho Asia, at present only open for lunch, is already packed with eager eaters waiting to sample their extensive Vietnamese food. It's a casual area, with brick walls painted a light cream. A set lunch at Pho Asia costs from RMB42 to RMB62, and includes a starter, main course and a drink.
Thai Loft is the other side of the restaurant and is a slightly more formal dining environment with dark wood walls and dim lighting - be careful that when standing you don't hit your head into the low-hanging ceiling shades. Try their Lime Soda, Salty Lime and Sprite drinks (RMB10) - they definitely awaken your taste buds with the tangy, slightly sour taste. The Tom Yam Soup with Prawns (RMB18 for one person, RMB32 for two) is fresh flavored and served with large, crisp prawns. The Spicy Barbeque Stingray Fish with Spicy Lime Dip (RMB40) is a great starter. Though it isn't boneless, the meat is flaky and the citrus aftertaste highlights the overall freshness of the fish.
For curry lovers, the Chicken Drumstick Meat with Thai Eggplant (RMB42) will not disappoint. Although slightly oily, it's cooked just right; the green curry isn't too spicy but still packs a punch of flavor.
A new wine display and menu is coming soon to both restaurants. The selection is set to feature over 80 different grape varieties from around the globe, and all at supermarket prices.
The Bottom Line: Two of the city's most popular cuisines are brought together for a killer Asian combo.
