If you’re craving an authentic taste of Thailand, look no further than Nara Thai, a gem among the Royal Thai Embassy’s Thai SELECT certified restaurants in Manila. As the proud holder of the coveted title of Bangkok’s Best Restaurant, Nara Thai at SM Megamall, continues to stand with its reputation as one of the finest purveyors of genuine Thai cuisine in the city, proudly certified by the Royal Thai Embassy itself

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Founded in 2003, the restaurant pays tribute to one of its founders, Narawadee Srikarnchana, whose vision and passion have shaped its culinary legacy. Launched in 2018 by Filipina entrepreneur Sheila Romero, the Philippine franchise has since thrived with its timeless recipes and delightful innovations bringing the flavors the of famous Nara Thai restaurant of Thailand here in the Philippines as a franchisee.

Appetizers: Exploring Thai Culinary Delights

Embark on a delightful journey of flavors with Nara Thai’s tantalizing appetizers. Nara Thai’s appetizer menu offers an exciting array of dishes, each a gateway to the rich flavors of Thailand.

Roti with Massaman Sauce

The Roti with Massaman Sauce is a delightful starter that combines the softness of roti bread with the aromatic richness of Massaman curry. Prices range from Php 255 (ala carte) to Php 1,000 (large, serves 10), making it a perfect choice for sharing among friends and family. The Roti (bread) is best when hot and newly served.

Goong Kabeuang

For seafood enthusiasts, the Goong Kabeuang, a Crispy Prawn Pancake, is a must-try delicacy. Savor the crispy exterior that gives way to succulent prawn goodness inside. Priced from Php 350 to Php 1,700 depending on the serving size, this appetizer is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Best with the dipping sauce.

Yum Phak Khom

For something crunchy and flavorful, the Yum Phak Khom, featuring Fried Spinach Leaves served with Minced Pork & Prawn Chili Lime Dip, is a true taste sensation. Prices range from Php 280 (ala carte) to Php 860 (large, serves 10).

Soups: Warmth and Spice in Every Sip

Thai soups are known for their aromatic spices and bold flavors.

Tom Yum Goong

Tom Yum Goong, a Prawn-based Spicy Lemongrass and Lemon Soup, promises an explosion of tastes, with prices starting at Php 480 (ala carte). Very generous number of shrimps in the servings and one of the best Tom Yum Goong I ever tried. A must order for a complete a hearty Thai meal.

Ayutthaya Beef Boat Noodles

Their Ayutthaya Beef Boat Noodles take center stage, promising a symphony of flavors in every spoonful, this dish is perfect for those who crave the rich taste of beef immersed in aromatic Thai spices.

Rice and Curry: A Feast of Colors and Aromas

Khao Phad Nam Prik Goong Seab

Nara Thai’s rice and curry selections promise an explosion of colors, aromas, and tastes. The Khao Phad Nam Prik Goong Seab, a Fried Rice delight featuring Chili, Shrimp Paste, Caramelized Pork, Crispy Catfish & Salted Egg, is a symphony of flavors priced from Php 335 to Php 1,675.

Kang Kiew Wan Nuea

For those craving the delightful complexities of Thai curries, the Kang Kiew Wan Nuea Green Curry Beef will get your taste. Packed with aromatic herbs and spices, this dish elevates the tender beef to new heights of deliciousness. Served in three sizes – ala carte (Php 650), medium (serves 5 pax – Php 1,625), and large (serves 10 pax – Php 3,250).

Crab Meat Yellow Curry

Seafood enthusiasts will love the Crab Meat Yellow Curry, priced from Php 950 to Php 4,750. Great for crab lovers who hate grueling with the shell! The yellow curry enhances the flavor the fresh crab meat.

Meat: Savory Pleasures for Every Palate

Gai Tord Krob Sauce Ma Nao

For meat lovers, Nara Thai offers an array of delectable dishes. The Gai Tord Krob Sauce Ma Nao, Fried Chicken in Lime Sauce, delivers a zesty kick, priced from Php 335 to Php 1,680.

Kai Yang Bang Tan

The Kai Yang Bang Tan, a Chicken Barbecue Thai Style, is a delightful choice at Php 385.

Seafood: With a Thai Flavor Twist

Phu Nim Tord Kra Tiem

If you’re a seafood lover looking for a scrumptious treat, the Phu Nim Tord Kra Tiem Fried Soft Shell Crab with Garlic is a standout choice. This indulgent dish boasts crispy soft shell crab, perfectly seasoned and complemented by the delightful aroma of garlic. Priced at Php 990 (ala carte), it can satisfy a group of 5 (Php 2,475 for medium) or a grand gathering of 10 (Php 4,950 for large).

Beverages: Sip and Savor

Nara Thai Milk Tea and Peach Ice Tea

Complete your culinary adventure with Nara Thai’s signature Nara Thai Milk Tea (left), priced at Php 185, providing the perfect blend of creaminess and tea goodness. Their Peach Ice Tea (right), concentrate from Thailand, is refreshing.

Dessert: Indulge Thai’s Sweet Delights

On our experience, Nara Thai served us with their special desserts so the serving here might be different on the actual thing they put in the menu. However, you can check their desserts here for your own reference: https://narathaiph.com/full-menu-1. Here are my thoughts on the served delights:

Khao Niew Ma Muang

The sweet aroma of ripe mangoes wafted through the air, enticing me to indulge in this classic Thai treat. The perfectly cooked sticky rice was bathed in creamy coconut milk, which added a luscious and velvety touch to the dish. Each spoonful was a delightful blend of the tropical sweetness of mangoes and the rich creaminess of the coconut milk.

Tako

The playful addition of Tako, or colorful tapioca pearls, provided a fun burst of chewiness, enhancing the overall dessert experience. This dessert truly captured the essence of Thai cuisine – a harmonious balance of sweet and creamy goodness.

Thai Summer Mix Shaved Ice

The dessert was a visually stunning masterpiece – a vibrant medley of colors and textures. The finely shaved ice was drizzled with sweet coconut cream, which infused every bite with a cool and refreshing sensation. Each spoonful revealed a delightful array of tropical flavors – from the creamy coconut ice cream to the tender red monggo beans and the chewy goodness of Nata De Coco. The sweetness of ripe jackfruit and the refreshing crunch of water chestnut provided a delightful contrast, elevating the dessert to a truly tropical paradise for the taste buds.

OVERALL EXPERIENCE

Nara Thai’s food experience is like being in Thailand’s famous Thai restaurant in the Philippine setting. The base of their dishes is imported directly from Thailand giving authenticity to the flavors. Although the flavors are rich, it is not too intense to be enjoyed for our Filipino taste pallet.

So, head over to Nara Thai at the 3rd floor of SM Megamall Fashion Hall and let your taste buds revel in the vibrant flavors of Thailand. Experience a gastronomic voyage that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, capturing the essence of Thai cuisine in every bite.

For more information and to explore their full menu, visit their website at https://narathaiph.com/. Don’t miss the chance to savor the best of Thailand right here in Manila!