Esarn Thai Corner Pasir Panjang

We only realised Pasir Panjang Hawker Centre was closed for renovation when we arrived at the location. With lunch plans disrupted, we crossed the road and decided to try E-Sarn Thai Food, located at the corner of the shophouses opposite.

E-Sarn Thai Corner

During lunchtime, they offer a value set menu priced at $9.90++ which includes a main course and a drink. We ordered two sets — the Green Curry Chicken with Rice and the Pineapple Rice — and added a few sides and desserts to complete the meal.

Menu

The interior reflects a typical Thai restaurant setting, decorated with pictures of the Thai King and cultural ornaments that give off a homely Thai vibe.

Interior

For drinks, we had Iced Lemon Tea and Sprite. The iced lemon tea tasted rather localised despite being served in a Thai restaurant.

Choice of Drink - Ice Lemon Tea & Sprite

We topped up our meal with a Seafood Tom Yum Soup. The soup was not very spicy but was appetising, with the refreshing fragrance of lemongrass and lime leaves. Pieces of chilli could be seen “swimming” in the soup, along with tofu cubes and assorted seafood.

Seafood Tom Yum Soup - $2.50

The Pineapple Rice came topped with chicken floss and four pieces of split mini wings. We added two pieces of homemade Thai fish cake for an additional $4. The pineapple rice was fragrant and satisfying.

Pineapple Rice with Thai Fish Cakes

The Green Curry Chicken with Rice was served with a fried egg. The curry gravy was rich and luscious, pairing perfectly with the white rice. We also added two sticks of Moo Ping for another $4.

Green Curry with Moo Ping 

With the set meal, we enjoyed a 20% discount on desserts. We tried the Red Ruby Delight, beautifully served in a Thai bowl filled with red rubies and topped with ice cream.

Red Ruby Delight - $5.60

We also ordered the Thai Ruom Mit Delight, a colourful mix of ingredients in pandan-infused coconut milk, including red ruby and jackfruit.

Thai Ruom Mmit Delight - $5.60

Overall, the set meal was value-for-money and satisfying. The desserts stood out the most, and it’s a place I wouldn’t mind returning to try other items on their set menu.

Esarn Thai Corner Pasir Panjang
Location: 130 Pasir Panjang Rd, Singapore 118548

Basil King (Clementi)

I have heard quite a bit about Basil King, and after a strong recommendation from a colleague, I decided to give it a try.

Basil King (Clementi)

Basil King essentially serves rice topped with a sunny side up egg and your choice of meat, chicken, beef, pork, prawns, or pork belly. You can also select your preferred spice level, ranging from Level 1 (non-spicy) to Level 5. On top of that, diners can choose anywhere from a single egg to a rather eye-catching quadruple egg option, which definitely stands out.

Menu

I went with the double egg meal with basil pork at Level 1, playing it safe on the spice level. The eggs were skillfully done and aesthetically pleasing, with runny yolks that paired well with the white rice.

However, the disappointment came from the basil pork. It lacked the distinct fragrance and taste of basil, tasting more like stir-fried minced pork served with rice and egg rather than a basil dish.

Basil Pork - Double Eggs - $7.90

My friend also ordered the basil pork with a single egg, but the yolk had already slipped out of the egg white. This made the overall presentation look inconsistent, suggesting that the standard and consistency might not be well maintained.

Basil Pork - Double Eggs - $6.90

All in all, the flavours did not quite meet my expectations, though it still makes for a filling meal. If you prefer a lighter basil fragrance, this might suit your taste.

Basil King (Clementi)
Location: 352 Clementi Ave 2, Singapore 120352

Chok Dee Thai Food Mookata

 Mookata buffet in a coffeeshop at just $22.90 per pax?! Yes, you read that right. If you’re anywhere near Tampines North, this is one spot you’ll want to check out, sizzling grills, bubbling soup, and unlimited indulgence without breaking the bank. 

Stall of Chok Dee Mookata

Ordering was easy, we simply scanned the QR code and selected what we wanted on their online platform. The mookata spread was impressively diverse, featuring salmon, smoked duck, lemongrass-marinated meats, Thai fish cakes, crayfish, scallops, and even bak kwa. Of course, the usual favourites were all there too: vegetables, Mama Mee, prawns, and squid.

Our Spread

When it comes to mookata, it’s hard to skip the staples, especially Thai fish cakes, which are always a must-have for us.

Thai Fish Cake

This scrumptious mookata spread was perfect for warming up our stomachs on a rainy day. One thing worth highlighting was the service, the staff were prompt and attentive, quickly responding whenever we needed the grill paper changed. On top of that, their lemongrass-marinated meat stood out with a distinct and refreshing flavour that set it apart from the usual marinades. 

Mookata

All in all, this mookata buffet proved to be a comforting and enjoyable experience from the generous spread and unique marinades to the attentive service that kept everything running smoothly. For mookata lovers looking for a fuss-free, value-for-money spot in a casual coffeeshop setting, this is definitely one worth checking out.

Chok Dee Thai Food Mookata
Location: 445 Tampines Street 42, Singapore 520445

Central Siam Cuisine

Another gathering with the pals, this time we headed north to Yishun’s Wisteria Mall for some comforting and flavour-packed Thai food at Central Siam.

Central Siam at Wisteria Mall

Siamese Boat Noodle

We had the cha yen, because really, what’s a Thai meal without their signature milk tea? To complete the experience, we went for both the Original Thai Milk Tea and the Thai Green Milk Tea, each offering its own distinct charm and creamy sweetness.

Thai Milk Tea & Thai Green Milk Tea - $3.90 Each

The Thai Pink Milk Tea caught my eye, it looked interesting and was definitely to my liking with its cheerful hue. On the other hand, the Thai Lemonade Green Tea brought back a wave of nostalgia, reminding me of the "Sng Bao" flavour we used to enjoy as kids.

Thai Lemonade Green Tea & Thai Pink Milk Tea - $3.90 Each

The Crispy Thai Crab Roll immediately reminded me of our local Ngoh Hiong with its golden, crunchy appearance. However, this version was packed with crab meat and other savoury fillings. A quick dip into the sweet and spicy chilli sauce made each bite even more enjoyable.

Thai Crab Roll - $18

The Deep-Fried Pork Belly had a wonderfully crispy top layer, though the meat underneath leaned on the tougher side. Still, dipping each piece into the mixed Thai sauce brought out that satisfying crackling joy with every bite.

Deep Fried Pork Belly - $10

Boat Noodle, also known as guay tiew ruea (ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรือ), has always been one of my favourites. Unlike the spoon-sized servings typically found in Thailand, this place serves a full bowl and with Kurobuta pork slices too. The broth was rich and flavourful, while the pork liver stood out for being perfectly cooked with just the right texture. It’s a comforting bowl that satisfies both the appetite and the craving for authentic Thai-style flavours.

Boat Noodle with Kurobuta Pork Slice - $13.90

Not only do they serve Kurobuta Pork Slice, but they also offer Australia Wagyu Beef Boat Noodles and it’s fantastic. 

Australia Wagyu Beef - $15.90

The portion of beef slices was generous, tender, and flavourful, soaking up the rich broth beautifully. Each mouthful was satisfying and full of depth, making it a standout choice for beef lovers.

Beef Slices

Visually pleasing with its vibrant green hue, this dessert features Pandan-flavoured Kaya paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, served atop two thick slices of golden toast and sprinkled with chopped peanuts. The combination was both savoury and irresistible, a delightful balance of local flavour and indulgent sweetness.

Thai Pandan Toast

We ended the meal with a staple Thai dessert, Mango Sticky Rice. The mango cubes were sweet and refreshing, bringing a nice touch to the dish. However, the block of sticky rice was rather clumpy and hard to separate, which unfortunately brought down the overall experience.

Mango Sticky Rice - $8

Central Siam Cuisine serves comforting Thai dishes with friendly Thai service staff. It’s a place I wouldn’t mind returning to again.

Central Siam Cuisine
Location: Wisteria Mall, 598 Yishun Ring Rd, #01-51/52, Singapore 768698

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.

Playful Tree

Kin Kao Mai Thai Restaurant Sembawang
Location: Sembawang Yatch Club, 43 Admiralty Rd West, #02-01 Singapore 759962

Warm Up Cafe

Good news for lovers of authentic Thai food and late-night eats!  If you enjoy a Thai live band, you're in for a treat—they play Tuesdays to Sunday, 715pm to 12am

The dining area is beautifully themed under a big tree, with leaves and plants overhead, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere. The combination of lights and thoughtful furnishings adds to the charm, making it a delightful spot to enjoy your meal. 

Don’t miss out on this unique experience!

Warm Up Cafe

We enjoyed a plate of fresh, healthy greens topped with generous chunks of crispy roasted pork. The contrast between the crispiness of the pork and the refreshing crunch of the greens made this dish a delightful and satisfying combination.

Interior

The Thai Lemongrass drink was simply refreshing when served chilled, providing a perfect way to cool down the heat from the spicy dishes. On the other hand, the warm honey lemon drink was just as enjoyable, with its balanced sweetness that perfectly suited the cold and wet weather—it was a comforting choice.

Thai Lemongrass & Honey Lemon - $3.90 Each

We were served Isan sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces resembling fish balls. The exterior was nicely charred, while the interior had a mince-like texture. Staying true to Thai traditions, the dish was accompanied by raw vegetables and chilli padi, enhancing its authentic flavours.

Isan Sausage - $11

The seafood Tom Yum clear soup we ordered came with two prawns, along with the usual seafood like squid and others. Despite its clear appearance, the soup packed a spicy punch. However, it lived up to expectations as an appetizing and flavorful dish.

Tom Yum Soup Clear - $16

The omelette was of the creamy and runny variety, generously topped with large chunks of crabmeat. While it was a tad too milky for my taste, those who enjoy watery and creamy omelettes will likely find it irresistible.

Creamy Crab Omeleete - $21

Boat Noodles are always a favourite of mine when ordering from a Thai menu. Unlike the typical one-mouthful serving, the portion was generous. The bowl was packed with meatballs, lean meat, liver, kang kong, and innards, making it incredibly hearty

Thai Boat Noodle

The broth had a rich depth of flavour and was simply delicious—comfort in every bite.

Boat Noodle

We tried their Seafood Vermicelli Salad, which was a refreshing and appetizing choice. The dish combined seafood such as mussels, squid, prawns, and minced meat with vermicelli, all tossed in a tangy and zesty sauce. The flavors came together beautifully, making it a vibrant and satisfying addition to our meal.

 

Vermicelli

We enjoyed a plate of fresh, healthy greens topped with generous chunks of crispy roasted pork. The contrast between the pork's crispiness and the greens' refreshing crunch made this dish a delightful and satisfying combination.

Kai Lan with Crispy Pork

The braised pork was served in eight generously sized chunks, with distinct layers of fat and meat. We absolutely loved how the braised flavours had infused deeply into the meat. The texture was springy yet tender, making each bite a delightful experience.

 

Braised Pork - $16

Steamed Seabass with Lime & Garlic is a must-have for me in any Thai meal. It’s served with a bowl of zesty gravy to pour over the fish as it cooks over the fire. I absolutely love how appetizing this dish is, with its perfect blend of spiciness and tangy goodness, which pairs beautifully with the tender flesh of the seabass.

Steamed Seabass with Lime and Garlic - $31

No meal is complete without dessert, and we opted for the Thai Coconut Milk Custard, also known as Kanom Tuay in Thai. This traditional dessert featured two layers—a creamy coconut layer on top of a pandan-infused base—and was served in small ceramic cups with wooden spoons, adding an authentic touch.

From the very first bite, we were captivated by its homey yet delightful taste. The salty coconut cream perfectly balanced the sweet, aromatic pandan layer, and the smooth, custard-like texture made it light and satisfying. It was the perfect way to round off our meal.

 

Thai Coconut Milk Custard

We also had Red Ruby as dessert, a delightful choice to end the meal. The mildly sweet coconut milk paired perfectly with the gelatinous coating around the crunchy water chestnut pieces of the red ruby. Adding to the experience was the natural sweetness of the jackfruit, which brought everything together beautifully and completed the meal on a satisfying note.

Red Ruby

To sum up, the Thai staff were warm and friendly, and despite the busy peak hours, our orders were served fairly quickly. The food was authentic and absolutely delicious. If you’re a fan of genuine Thai cuisine. Warm Up Café offers an impressive spread that’s sure to satisfy. Plus, they feature a live band during certain times, adding to the lively dining experience. Definitely worth checking out!

Warm Up Cafe @ Grantral Mall Macpherson
Location: Grantral Mall, 601 MacPherson Road  #01-37 Grantral Complex, 368242