Taste of Thailand in Kathmandu

Finding Thai food in Kathmandu can be a little tricky, not because there is a lack of Thai eateries but because those that are around do a decent job of catering traditional as well as creative Thai dishes. Now, for those looking to have an authentic taste of Thailand, Bao Xuan restaurant in The Soaltee Hotel is back with its Thai Food Festival.

Bao Xuan means the flavour of China, but till 30 April epicureans in Kathmandu can delight in the diverse gastronomic flavours of Thailand especially prepared by Chef Wimon Junlawong and her team. Known for its aromatic flavours and spicy edge, Nepalis are bound to feel right at home with Thai food.

Specialising in presenting authentic Thai cuisine in a contemporary style Chef Junlawong and the culinary team have curated a special ala carte menu including Som Tam, the quintessential green papaya salad that combines all four tastes- sour, spicy, sweet, and salty, Moo Yang Num Jim Jaew (grilled pork with Thai dipping sauce), home-made red, green and yellow curry, Panang Curry, Pad Keemao (stir-fried noodles) among others. To finish the flavourful and bold meal on a sweet note, a banana and coconut cream dessert concludes the menu.

"I had worked in India for many years, but this is the first time I am in Nepal," says Chef Junlawong, "I expect to have some exciting experience here as I have heard that the Nepalis are interested in Thai food."

Junlawong grew up in the northeast part of Thailand where spicy food dominates the palette. She learned to cook as a child and slowly became more serious about pursuing it as a career. "My mom worked on a farm and would tell me to prepare food when she came back. This way I learned to cook local dishes,” she shares. “Gradually I began to be serious about cooking as friends and family liked my cooking.”

Apart from leading the event, she is also training the chefs at Soaltee in Thai cuisine. Chef Tank Bahadur Rai, with more than 12 years of experience in Thai cuisine will take over the kitchen once Junlawong departs.

Opened eight years ago, Bao Xuan serves authentic Chinese food. After the fest, they are looking to expand their menu, says maître d' Mahadev Shimkhada.