Krua Walaiphan: Authentic Thai in the Bustling City

Just when you thought you couldn’t eat anymore…

District: Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
Cuisine: Thai
How Much: Dishes Range From $68 – $188
Best for: Casual lunch
Must Order: Gaeng Pad Gai (Thai Red Chicken Curry) and Kao Niew Ma-muang (Traditional Mango Sticky Rice)

We know Hong Kong has numerous Thai restaurants to choose from, but how many of those places are both authentic and MSG-free? It’s hard to come up with one off the top of our heads, but we’ve found you one that ticks both those boxes! Located in Sai Ying pun, Krua Walaiphan (which translates to Walaiphan’s kitchen), serves loving homemade food prepared personally by Chef Walaiphan and her team. Its recipes are put together using only the finest and freshest ingredients flown in from Thailand daily. While the place lacks in vibrant atmosphere, it more than makes up for it with quality food, flavours and hospitality.

I’ve never considered myself a big fan of Thai food, so trust me when I say the food was phenomenal! Some of our favourites from the menu included Yum Som O (Pomelo Salad – $118) – it was the perfect way to start a meal on a scorching summer’s day. The juicy pomelo went well with the crispy shallot, and managed to wholesomely capture the essence of Thai food by using a variety of traditional ingredients including, dried coconut, palm sugar, and tamarind dressing. Another appetiser I enjoyed was the Gai Yang (Barbecued Chicken Thighs – $159) as the meat was tender and marinated to the bone – it paired perfectly with house special sauce and cucumber.

Now for the highlight of my life – okay, the highlight of my meal – the Gaeng Pad Gai (Thai Red Chicken Curry $108). This curry was both fragrant and creamy and contained a variety of vegetables. Let’s just say I came back for seconds (okay, thirds). My dining partner let me feast on the Salt-crusted Grilled Barramundi (starting from $188), which was served with noodles, herbs and lettuce. The fish itself was so fresh it was almost as if it were caught that morning.

I’m sure you can imagine how full we must have been – but who are we to resist some Kao Niew Ma-muang (traditional Mango Sticky Rice – $78)? The combination of the sweet coconut rice and refreshing mango was just the right ending to a delicious meal. 

Krua Walaiphan, G/F, Ko Wang Court, 29 High Street, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong, www.facebook.com/kruawalaiphan