The Best of Thai at One Farrer Hotel & Spa (2-16 Apr)
It's always a tricky issue dealing with guest chefs; the hosting establishment may want recipes toned down to sate the taste buds of regulars—which is understandable—and sometimes, incoming chefs just don't know how to please the local palate.
Lucky for us, visiting Guest Chef Aek Charttrakul whips up a tantalizing spread of Thai delights that hits all the right notes for the upcoming 'The Best of Thai' promotion at One Farrer Hotel & Spa.
Available 2 - 16 April 2015, diners can look forward to lip-smacking and authentic Thai signatures—such as Kao Tang Na Tang (crispy rice crackers with spicy chicken dip), Mieng Khum (traditional betel leaf-wrapped snack), Hor Mok (fish custard), Poo Pad Pong Karee (stir-fried crab with egg curry)—by the current Thailand Culinary Academy board of director and his team, in addition to traditional Thai dance performances and attractive lucky draw prizes (the top prize being a trip to Bangkok with 5-star accommodation for 2).
Highlights include the robust Massaman Nua—a rich and nutty Southern Thai curry, that isn't too spicy, filled with generous, tender chunks of beef—and his signature Tom Kha Gai (Thai coconut chicken galangal soup).
What makes Chef Aek's rendition outstanding is how refreshingly intense and bright it is, compared to other more pedestrian offerings. The sour and spicy notes shine through the silky, aromatic broth, yet without dulling the dulcet creaminess infused with the unique flavor of galangal.
Also good from the hotel's regular buffet lineup are the Roast Pork with delicious crackling, the chilled seafood counter and their concise selection of homemade ice cream—my personal picks were the pistachio and strawberry.
The 'Best of Thai' promotion by Guest Chef Aek Charttrakul and his team from the Thailand Culinary Academy is available from 2 - 16 April 2015, and is priced at $45 per adult for lunch, and $60 for dinner.
Escape Restaurant & Lounge One Farrer Hotel & Spa, Lobby 1 Farrer Park Station Road, Singapore 217562
Tel: +65 6705 7828
Operating hours: Lunch 12pm-2.30pm Dinner 6pm-10.30pm