Need an excuse to gorge on Thai food? Nah, us neither. But just in case you did, Songkran, Thai New Year, is this week, and it’s as good a reason as any to get stuck into your old favourites and a few new dishes too. Festivities in Thailand last for three days, from April 13-15. Across the country, everyone takes to the streets to splash each other with water as a sign of cleansing and renewal, and tie colourful strings round each other’s wrists to wish them good luck for the following year. There might not be so much of that going on in downtown Abu Dhabi, but you can still party like it’s Bangkok, albeit in a more sedate style, by visiting one of the capital’s Thai eateries.
Eating to excess is a part of practically every festival you care to mention, regardless of the culture, and Songkran is no different. Dance displays and traditional music, as well as lavish spreads will all be part of the celebrations in our favourite Thai restaurants. So if you want to get out of a green curry-ordering rut, now’s your chance – head to one of these venues to try out some new regional specialties.
Royal Orchid: The Thai Food Festival at Royal Orchid restaurant is set to be an extravaganza of upmarket Thai grub, traditional dance performances and music. Running from March 31 to April 16, there will be a specially designed menu for the new year period that includes taste bud-tingling delicacies such as scallop satay with mango salsa, and sliced duck in the chef’s secret sweet red sauce. You’ll also get the chance to sample the exotic Thai fruits on display throughout the festival. Contact Royal Orchid to find out which evenings the dance and music performances are being held.
Best for: Live dancers and music mean you can incorporate a little Thai culture into your evening
The Thai New Year à la carte menu will be available at lunch and dinner. Noon-3.30pm and 7.30pm-11.30pm. Salam street (02 677 1199)
Cho Gao: The wooden South Asia-inspired decor at this cosy restaurant-cum-bar and the Thai music on the sound system will make you feel as though you’re in Thailand, and Cho Gao will also be adding a selection of authentic Thai dishes to its Asian menu for the festive period. Make sure you don’t miss out on the issan grilled beef, pandan chicken, or fresh mango served with warm and creamy sticky rice. These dishes and many more will be served at lunch and dinner time between April 13 and 30.
Best for: A grown-up sophisticated atmosphere in which to enjoy your new year’s meal
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Hamdan Street (02 616 6149)
Taste of Thailand: Throughout April, head to Taste of Thailand to try their special new year set menu. For just Dhs104 you get four courses, including soup, spring rolls, stir fried prawns and squid with asparagus or fish with Thai herbs, plus a steamed rice flour with sweet coconut dessert for good measure. The restaurant will be playing authentic Thai music throughout the month, and its regular menu will also be available.
Best for: You want lots of Thai bang for your buck
Al Ain Palace Hotel, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, Corniche Road (02 679 4777)
