I have had a secret love affair with Busaba Eathai ever since it opened its doors in 1999. How could anyone not do the same? The interiors, ah the interiors whisk you away to a dimly lit sexed up Kuti floating over water. Oh, The light smell of incense that will lull you into a gastro-meditative trance. Oh and there is the food!
So what has happened in the last 10 years? To be honest I spend very little time in Central London so impromptu dining is few and far between. Dining in Central London is usually at more of a 'Destination' restaurant. I would see Busaba as a casual walk in restaurant, so I somewhat repressed my hidden love affair with Busaba. But when opportunities arise, you strike! Walking down Wardor Street on a September evening, I suggested ‘Hey Lets get a bite at Busaba!’ Was I disappointed?
So 10 years on? The interior looks as fresh and sexy as it did when it first gently opened it’s doors 10 years ago. There is a hushed buzz about this place with its intimate communal dining tables and low lighting.
From the first glance at the menue all the dishes seem like long lost friends. I was filled with the dilemma on which ones to get reacquainted with first. The menu is divided up by preparation style, (Soup Noodle, Stir Fry, Curry et al) and sides. Menu descriptions kept to a minimum, just the star ingredients nothing more. So choosing is rather straightforward.
I went for the Kweito Sen Mee (£7.50), which is a fragrant clear chicken soup with Thai fishcakes, springy fish balls and rice vermicelli noodles. Nothing fussy about the flavours just an elixir of clean chicken broth, notes of lemongrass and Thai basil, finishing with a kick of heat from chili. If this restorative soup does not get you to a Buddhist nirvana, nothing will.
If that were not enough, I was a bit of a greedy gullet and ordered 3 side. (before you judge I did share with the other half). First up was the Pandan Chicken (£4.00) , Tender chicken thighs marinated in garlic, coriander(cilantro) root, soy and fish sauce, then rapped in aromatic pandan leaves and steamed to glorious perfection. The joyous Thai vegetable spring rolls (Por-Pia Joy £3.50)) were crispy and grease free filled with tender vegetables. Last but not least the Goong Tahd Prawn (£5.30). Sweet butterflied prawns in a crispy panko breadcrumb served with a sweet green mango dressing.
So was I disappointed? No! The meal was an excellent value with both of us dining for under £35. Would I make the effort to go back? Yes- Now with three locations it makes it easier to pop in if I’m local.
Price £35 and under for 2
