Ayatana Modern Thai

The thing I love the most about South East Asia is the people; hospitable, welcoming and oh so friendly they make Mother Theresa look like Darth Vader. Continuing the tradition, a newly opened Thai restaurant in Windsor is ready to welcome you with open arms.

The friendly folk at Ayatana Modern Thai have put a modern spin on not only the cuisine but the decor of their small space, with dark walls, modern finishes highlighted with hints of red and silver. This proves to be a nice change from the seemingly half-finished fit-outs of those trying to bring Bangkok to Brighton.

Staff are extremely attentive and my dining partner and I never go without a full water glass. As I can’t go past a lightly fried entree we share the prawn spring rolls ($12), which come with a full juicy king prawn nestled in its crispy wonton bed, and the tempura calamari ($14) that come with a spicy kick of seafood sauce.

Our mains of beef massaman curry ($20) and soft shell crab curry ($23) are surprisingly light. The beef is accentuated nicely with star anise and cinnamon, while the curry with the crab has a good amount of heat to complement the crustacean’s crispy exterior.

Ayatana lies in a tricky spot on the strip that often has trouble finding a voice, but with friendly service and spicy offerings it might find its footing. Plus anyone looking for a lunch deal should check out Ayatana’s $10 lunch special.

AYATANA
97 Chapel Street, Windsor
9533 8813
Wed – Sat 12pm – 4.30pm, open seven days for dinner, 5pm till late
Open all during the holiday season