From the minute you step into Soho restaurant Patara
the first thing that hits you is that familiar aroma of fine dining Thai style – a heady mix of lemongrass and other room engulfing aromas.
The main reason for this taste bud treat is to sample the Maldron Oyster festival which is on until the end of this month. On offer is either three or six of the Maldron Oysters served raw or cooked with a Thai twist accompanied by mint, coriander, lemongrass, Thai vinaigrette, lemon and crisp shallots or deep-fried in soda batter served in its shell with bean-sprout and chilli sauce. We opted for three each of the famous aphrodisiac appetisers, washed down with champagne, naturally.
My guest was a newbie to Oysters and I had only tried them once before – they were refreshing but both of us preferred the dry ones served in a light, crispy batter. Next we shared the divine melt-in-the-mouth poached king scallops with the added bonus of the after effects of the chilli leaving a unique and lasting impression. We also had the tasty beef and prawn satays wrapped in seaweed.
Throughout the meal food presentation is impeccable with the food looking inviting and pleasing to the eye. Thankfully the taste of the food lived up to its attractive looks.
The Patara menu is extensive and choosing the mains took quite some time. Already impressed by everything so far we knew that the mains would not disappoint. The Gressingham duck breast with garlic and chilly was scrumptious but was out shone by the boar steak. The meat was tender and the sweet coconut red curry sauce with sweet basil, moreish.
We chose the fragrant jasmine rice as our side dish and were now satisfied and unsure as to whether we could squeeze in dessert. Well, it seemed rude not to indulge so for afters we shared the delicious warm fruits wrapped in a crepe and sprinkled with almonds – perfect for the winter months.
At 7pm on a Friday night, it was barely full but by 8.30pm Patara was heaving; proving that exquisite food and sophisticated ambience can go a long way.
Info: Patara Oyster month continues until November 30, 2011 |Patara London, Soho, 15 Greek Street, London W1D 4DP
