Feast of best-loved Thai dishes

Chainat with some of his dishes featured in Makan Kitchen buffet at DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur.

A guest chef from Thailand is bringing some of the country’s most popular dishes to a limited-time dinner buffet in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

DoubleTree by Hilton Phuket Banthai Resort executive chef Noppadon Chainat has curated a selection of Thai dishes in his collaboration with DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur.

The feast kicks off with a bite of Mieng Kam, a classic Thai appetiser.

Yam Sam O, (Thai pomelo salad with shrimp), is another excellent choice, featuring juicy pomelo segments tossed in a vibrant and tangy dressing.

The grilled Gai Yang or marinated chicken with smoky charred notes and paired with the spicy and tangy Naam Jim Jaew dipping sauce.

Chainat said some of the must-try dishes are Tom Yam Goong, Pla Kapong Neung Manaw, Masaman Nuea, Tom Kha Gai, Geang Kiew Warn Gai and Gai Yang with Naam Jim Jaew.

“Visitors to Thailand often order these dishes, so I thought it was best to bring them here,” the chef said.

A variety of seafood and vegetables accompanies the spicy-sour Tom Yam Goong.

Pla Kapong Neung Manaw (steamed seabass fish fillet with lemongrass) is light and fresh, elevated by a bright and zesty lime-garlic sauce.

Masaman Nuea (southern curry with slow-cooked beef), proves rich and comforting, featuring tender beef in a curry with warm spices and a subtle sweetness.

Tom Kha Gai delivers a perfect balance of creamy coconut milk and aromatic herbs and spices, while Geang Kiew Warn Gai – tender chicken in green curry – offers a vibrant sauce packed with bold flavours and just the right amount of heat.

Gai Yang, marinated chicken, is grilled with smoky, charred notes and pairs with the spicy and tangy Naam Jim Jaew dipping sauce.

The light and freah Pla Kapong Neung Manaw or Steamed Seabass Fish Fillet with lemongrass.

The Pad Thai Goong (stir-fried rice noodles) is too light for my liking, but Chainat said the southern style of cooking doesn’t use much spice.

For dessert, diners can enjoy Khao Niew Mamuang (mango sticky rice) while Thai green tea and milk tea are among the beverage options.

The Essence of Thai Cuisine dinner buffet is priced at RM168nett per adult and RM84nett per child (six to 12 years). It is available on Friday and Saturday, from 6.30pm to 10pm, until July 31.

Diners can also take part in “Smell the Fragrance” challenge by identifying the scent of various spices and ingredients used in Thai cuisine to win a prize.

MAKAN KITCHEN,

DoubleTree by Hilton Kuala Lumpur,

Intermark Mall, The Intermark,

348 Jalan Tun Razak, Kampung Datuk Keramat, Kuala Lumpur.

(Tel: [phone]). Business hours: 6.30am-10.30pm.

This is the writer’s personal observation and is not an endorsement by StarMetro.