Thai cuisine, one of the most popular cuisines in the world influenced by Chinese and Indian foods, is unique and has a distinct flavor of its own. With strong aromatic components, Thai food is a wonderful amalgamation of five tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, salty and spicy. But don’t worry! You don’t need to travel all the way to Thailand to experience its national cuisine – simply head to Sofitel Mumbai BKC before 5th June, 2016!
The bustling BKC property is hosting ‘Tastes of Thailand,’ a ten-day long Thai festival in association with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and SO Sofitel Bangkok. Mumbaikars can revel in an array of authentic and sumptuous Thai cuisine prepared by Chefs Chitsanuphat Dungjampa and Chalermchai Tavornaroonrat from the Bangkok property, who have specially flown in to provide a true taste of their homeland. Indulge in an eclectic mix of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes complemented by a range of exotic spices and fresh herbs. An innovative menu has specially been crafted by these talented chefs featuring Thai speciality dishes.
I attended the launch of the festival on 27th May, 2016 in the esteemed company of Mr. Biswajit Chakraborty, General Manager, Sofitel Mumbai BKC and Ms. Sirin Surathin- Deputy Consul General. Our evening started with a traditional Thai dance performance that took place in the lobby – the grace and grandeur of which set the perfect tone for the meal ahead!
Soon after, we made our way to Pondicherry Cafe, the hotel’s lively coffee shop that’s playing host to the festival. The regular buffet spread did grab our eyeballs for a few minutes until we reached the Thai section. The salad counter featured the likes of Yum Woon Sen (Glass Noodle Salad), Som Tam (Spicy Papaya Salad) and lots more. The latter was being prepared on the spot with chilli, garlic and tomatoes and was a sight to see. It surely hit all the right notes with its flavors and spices. The main course consisted of Gai Phad Kra Prao (Basil Chicken), Pla Nueng Manao (Steamed fish with a raw garlic, lime and chili sauce), Phad Thai Goong (Shrimp Phad Thai Noodles), Gang Phed Ped Yang (Roasted Duck Curry) among others. Out of everything I tried, I loved Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Prawn Soup), Gang Kiew Wan Puck (Green Thai Curry), Chu Chee Pla (Fish with Red Curry Sauce).
Known for its lavish dessert spread, the counter had endless varieties ranging from ice creams to chocolate-based desserts to Thai-inspired desserts and more. Though its hard to pick what I liked most (considering I’m a dessert person), the refreshing coconut based Woon Ma Prao Orn (Young coconut jelly), Sticky Rice with Black Bean in Coconut Milk, Banana in Coconut Milk, White Chocolate Brownie and the Himalayan Honeycomb were unique and worth trying.
Overall, I had an enjoyable experience with impeccable hospitality, superb service, great food and entertainment.
Venue: Pondichéry Café, Sofitel Mumbai BKC
Date: 27th May to 5th June, 2016
Time: Lunch – 12:30 pm onwards and Dinner – 7:00 pm onwards
Price: Lunch and Dinner – INR 3,100 (plus taxes)
For table reservations, please call +91 (22) 6117 5115
*The meal was paid for by Sofitel Mumbai BKC
That Foodie Chick 
