Thailand

Decor that's about as dismal as the endless traffic outside shouldn't distract you from the high-quality food within Thailand. Faux-stone tiles, a mock-tiki bar awning in the corner and dull paintings suggest that this is yet another dreary Thai takeaway - but the menu holds treasures. The Thai options include well-prepared classic stir-fries and curries; for more of an adventure, go for the Laotian specials, which offer real treats. The dramatically named angry lamb featured stir-fried meat swimming in a delicious sauce that was thick, sweet and fiery, topped with fresh basil. A duck curry offered the ultimate opportunity for sweet indulgence: perfectly tender thick slices of the bird in lashings of smooth coconut milk enlivened with tomatoes, pineapple and lychees. An otherwise classic pla kung (prawn salad with mint, coriander and spring onions) was let down by slightly undercooked prawns. While Thailand is often quiet, and may not be the ideal place in which to linger over a romantic meal, the bold and varied flavours make it an excellent spot to enjoy an interesting dinner.