Food, Lifestyle, Travel & Photography: Kin Kao Mai Thai Restaurant Sembawang

Saturday, May 17, 2025

Kin Kao Mai Thai Restaurant Sembawang

“Kin Kao Mai?”, a familiar Thai phrase meaning “Have you eaten yet?” is more than just a question. It’s a warm invitation rooted in Thai culture, one that I experienced firsthand during my visit to Kin Kao Mai Thai Bistro at their Sembawang Yacht Club branch.

Kin Kao Mai Thai Bistro

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Johor Strait bordering Malaysia, the evening offered more than just authentic Thai cuisine.

From the open dining area, the sunset skyline painted the horizon with breathtaking colours, making the meal even more memorable.

View from Kin Kao Mai Thai Bistro

While waiting for our dishes, nothing beat a chilled glass of lemongrass drink in hand. Light, fragrant, and subtly sweet, it was the perfect refresher to cool down from the lingering heat of the afternoon sun.

Lemongrass Drink - $4.80

The first dish to arrive was the glass noodles with seafood, a savory, flavor-packed plate that immediately caught our attention. The noodles were springy and well-seasoned, tossed with plump prawns, squid, and vegetables. What stood out were the charming star-shaped carrot cuts, adding a playful touch to the presentation. The vibrant colors made the dish as visually enticing as it was delicious. Every bite was a delightful mix of textures and umami, truly satisfying.

Fried Glass Noodles with Seafood - $14

Next came the Seafood Tom Yum Soup served in a less spicy version, yet no less flavorful. The broth leaned toward the sweeter side, striking a comforting balance between tangy and aromatic. It was incredibly addictive, especially with the generous portion of plump, succulent prawns that soaked up all the zesty goodness. Each spoonful warmed the soul without overwhelming the palate, making it perfect for those who enjoy tom yum with a gentler kick.

Seafood Tom Yum - $15

We also had the Breaded Thai Fish Cakes, a plate of four golden, crispy pieces that were just the right size for sharing. Each bite revealed a springy, flavorful interior, rich with herbs and spices. Dipping them into the accompanying sweet plum sauce added a lovely contrast of sweet and savoury, making the experience totally indulgent. Simple, satisfying, and undeniably tasty.

Thai Fish Cakes - $12

The Deep-Fried Chicken Wings with Thai Herbs were a hit as well. Crispy on the outside and juicy within, they were infused with the aromatic depth of Thai herbs that added an extra layer of flavor. Each wing was satisfying and well-seasoned , a great finger food that paired perfectly with the rest of the meal.

Deep-Fried Chicken Wings with Thai Herbs - $10

The Crackling Pork Knuckle was another standout , perfectly deep-fried to a golden brown with a shatteringly crisp skin that lived up to its name. Hearty and bold, it was a great addition to our spread and ideal for sharing.

Crackling Pork Knuckle - $30

The Deep-Fried Sea Bass with Sweet Chilli Sauce was thoughtfully prepared, the fish was already portioned into battered, bite-sized chunks, making it incredibly easy to enjoy without the hassle of bones. The sweet chilli sauce was mild and complemented the crisp, golden exterior without overpowering the delicate flavour of the fish. It was a well-executed dish that balanced convenience with taste.

Deep-Fried Sea Bass with Sweet Chilli Sauce - $35

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll by the water and stumbled upon a quirky surprise, a tree adorned with a pair of oversized rolling eyes. Its playful look made it instantly Instagram-worthy, standing cheerfully against the scenic straits and twilight sky. It was the perfect light-hearted end to an already delightful evening at Kin Kao Mai Thai Bistro.