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| - In spite of the rain last Friday, my inquisitive mind and insatiable appetite for Thai food insisted that I tried this place with all the conflicting reviews.
AMBIENCE
Upon entering you have an impression you left Toronto and went to an exclusive tropical hotel lounge. As the courteous staff guided me towards my reserved table, you can't ignore the captivating gesture of the minimal Thai art deco and the grandeur of the cozy space. The wooden chairs and granite tables harmonize with the huge bell-like lamps. A small pond with colourful coy fish located near the dining tables provide a sense of tranquillity. I have chosen to seat at a table with better vantage point, it's great to know that a small soft pillow is provided on the long couch. The mild and gentle background music sooths well with the elegant furnishings.
It's particularly funny that the restrooms are located one level below. A patron needs to use the stairs and pass through all the doors. It's like playing in an elaborate labyrinth searching for a hidden treasure. Fortunately, there are visible directions to guide you. Looking at the bright side, this is a form of exercise to burn those calories.
SERVICE
Pass 12 noon the influx of patrons are increasing and noticed the following:
1) More patrons are forming a longer line on the buffet banquet
2) The buffet dishes are quickly diminishing which needs to be replenished
3) Most of the tables are left unattended and the used plates are not cleared since most of the staff are helping to replenish the food
It's understandable that tables need to be cleared for the next patron, but the manner in which you clean makes a significant difference. It was both shocking and surprising that the waiters were cleaning the granite table besides me; quickly spraying and wiping with their white cloth. No patron wants any spray mist contaminating his or her food. Understandably, the waiters meant well and doing their job diligently, but this actually happened twice, one on my left side table and a few moments later, on my right side table...I was caught in between. It's an unfortunate and peevish encounter that no patron needs to endure.
Just as suggestion, your waiters can be trained to be discreet and effective at the same time. Have them oppositely face the eating patron while clearing the other table. Their back is behind the person, so they won't contaminate the food with their cleaning spray.
A personal thanks to Britwin Diaz, who promptly ensured that I received the replenished Thai Chili Seafood. Tip of the hat to Ali, he delivered a superb service on my table. Always ready to serve with a smile and enthusiatically answered all of my queries.
FOOD (Please see the attached pictures)
On the Buffet banquet, the tidy covered food warmers add more mystery on the dish.
I started with Fresh Spring Rolls, Mango Salad and Thai fried Rolls.
The Fresh Spring rolls almost looked like a simple California rolls, but it's actually bean sprouts, bean curd, red pepper, lettuce and parsley wrapped in soft and smooth paper rice. I relished the way the rice melts in you mouth while biting the crisp vegetables.
I enjoyed the shredded firm mango mixed with parsley, red pepper, shallots and grind peanuts.
The Fried rolls are crunchy yet not oily. I intentionally avoided the Thai sauces that goes with the appetizers; so as to taste its natural flavor.
I reveled with the 3 Pagodas, the zucchinis and carrots are fresh and firm. It goes well with the mildly spicy coconut milk. Likewise, I enjoyed the Thai Omelette. The savory bean sprouts mixed with eggs are tasty and not salty.
The Tamarind Beef deserves a special mention. The tender beef compliments with the roasted peanuts, potatoes, tamarind and coconut milk. I liked the Chili Seafood, a combination of the sauteed mixed vegetable with the mildly spiced tender shrimps.
The Thai Street Noodle Bar is fully organized and tidy. I tried the chicken breast with, coriander, chives, garlic and roasted nuts poured over with chicken broth. A perfect warm soup for a rainy Friday.
For the price of the Lunch Buffet, I have expectations that were not met:
First of all, I have enjoyed other versions of Pad Thai in Asia, New York and Toronto. I was expecting more on what Bangkok Garden has to offer with this local staple food. It took me another plate just to determine what seems to be lacking. The noodles are a bit saggy; there are no sufficient eggs, and no bean sprouts (apparently finely cut cabbage was used as a substitute). Also, it taste less tangy and has less spice.
Second, it's unfortunate and surprising that they are not serving any fish or squid on that day.
Third, the Thai Noodle is too dry and not tasty at all.
I have just tried their Lunch Buffet and fair enough to give them a benefit of the doubt. I would like to have the opportunity to try their dinner menu and experience what they have to offer.
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