Mantanah

The most authentic thai food I have tried in London. The owners and staff were so lovely too and the cooking seemed really exceptional. Some dishes particularly centred on their home village and were unusual - not necessarily what western tastes would expect - but well worth a try. I can't recommend it highly enough. The staff were telling me that they have been hit hard by cheaper chain restaurants nearby. What a shame - people who live near here are so lucky. I have to travel half an hour to get there but it is worth it.
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SE - View all reviews by this user
10 Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 10
Tuesday, February 08, 2011

I recently visited Mantanah as I love Thai food and had read a couple of positive reviews. Having been dissappointed with most Thai restaurants in London (with the exception of the Esarn Kheaw in Shepherds Bush) Mantanah really did surprise me. I'd have to completely disagree with the blog site comments (but to be honest I personally wouldn't use Pad Thai to judge the cooking or authenticity of any Thai). If you are looking for authentic, creative and regional dishes then this is the place to come. Thai ingredients are flown in weekly, so there are no substitutes. Try the chicken and banana blossom, Fish in a Garden (crispy seabass, ground rice, chili, thai basil, coriander and spices), shredded green papaya salad or any of the other regional specialities - delicious. The staff are so friendly and passionate about the food. They are also very helpful and although the food is prepared authentically hot (for a change!), they are happy to prepare it as you like it. They serve Thai beer and a selection of wine and everything is very reasonably priced. It seems a little bit out of the way but after our first visit we're regulars - absolutely worth the trip!
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10 Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 10 | Value for money 10
Saturday, July 31, 2010

On reading the great review in the current Time Out Restaurant Guide, I went with my partner for Sunday lunch for their buffet.

On arrival, we were the first to arrive but no sign of the buffet so we enquired about this. We were told it was a set buffet and the waitress informed us what this consisted off and was told we could order more and make a few changes.

The starters of chicken sateh, spring rolls, treasure bags and squid rings were fresh and very tasty, although fish cakes would have been a lovely addition. Mantanah if you're reading please take note.

The main courses of chicken green curry, beef oyster sauce, mix veg, steamed rice and veg noodles was delicious. When the waitress noticed we had finished our main courses, she came up to see if we wanted to order more so we ordered a pork phad prig which was even tastier than everything else.

What a great restaurant with great food and friendly staff (both the waitress and the chefs). Will definitely be going back soon!
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PANDAHEAD
10 Overall rating
Food 10 | Service 10 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 10
Monday, November 16, 2009