Modern classics and Thai fusion at Thong Dee Bistro

MODERN CLASSICS AND THAI FUSION AT THONG DEE BISTRO

The second venture of the charismatic Patrik Lundgren and the talented Chef Ponchan has opened its doors in Phuket Town, with a menu combining traditional Thai dishes reinvented and western classics, reminiscing of the cuisine served in Europe’s gastropubs.

Ask any locals or expatriates about dinner recommendations in the Kathu area, and chances are Thong Dee - The Kathu Brasserie will be in their top 3, and for good reasons! Carefully selected premium ingredients and a love and passion for cooking have pushed this establishment at the top of Trip Advisor and other review websites for several years.

Now, the very same Thong Dee we fell in love with has opened new doors in the heart of Phuket Town, on Ratsada Road. The decor is inviting and elegant, with many blackboards and pieces of art hanging on the walls and a little terrace at the entrance of the venue.

Starting with the appetizers, we were served a selection of bruschettas and crostinis with grilled goat cheese, walnut, honey, apple and a touch of shallots, as well as a chicken liver mousse, served with cranberry jam and butter-fried bread; a fantastic way to start off the meal. We also had the opportunity to try one of their specialties: the gambas ‘Pil Pil’, which are spicy Phuket prawns served with garlic and oregano.

We then moved on with some delicious main courses; first, we indulged in the Swedish meatballs, a mix of pork and beef meatballs served in a rich gravy sauce with mashed potato and a green salad. The meat was seasoned to perfection and paired wonderfully with the gravy.

Our second main course was the epitome of Thai fusion cuisine; the classic Pad Gapraow, but served with premium, sliced Australian beef in oyster sauce with Thai holy basil, peppercorn and some chili to provide that traditional heat. By far, one of the best stir-fried basil dishes I have ever tried, and they offer different versions of that same dish, too, including one with pork fillet, chicken and tender grilled duck breasts.

For dessert, you have to go with the chocolate lava cake, made with 72% dark chocolate and served with roasted hazelnuts and vanilla ice cream; the perfect way to finish a culinary adventure like no other.

Thong Dee Bistro is a must-visit destination in Phuket Town and a great venue to visit before continuing the party in town.

Thong Dee Bistro is opened from Tuesday to Saturday, from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. You can find the restaurant on Soi Ratsada in Phuket Town, right before the intersection with Takuapa Road and the large Krungthai bank. You can find more information on their website at www.thongdee.com/bistro.