Looking for a traditional Thai restaurant where Thai chefs prepare every dish from scratch to bring you an authentic, uncompromised taste of Thailand?
Look no further than Chokdee Thai Cuisine, conveniently located in both Nelson and Motueka.
Owner Sakawduean Muangthong says that people are often under the impression that Thai food is very hot and spicy, but in fact, Chokdee caters for all palates - from mild through to those who like their favourite Pad Thai extra hot. Families are enthusiastically welcomed as many of the dishes (such as the chicken satay) are mild, tasty and very popular with children.
"Thai food is a combination of flavours that are all important and not be disguised," says Sakawduean. She adds that many people get hooked on Thai food because of its delicious aroma and because the dishes are low in fat and not overcooked. At Chokdee, every dish is prepared only when the chef receives the order, so the vegetables are always perfectly tender and full of flavour.
The emphasis is on using the very freshest ingredients, because that is how they would prepare food in Thailand the traditional way. For Sakawduean, this means creating everything from scratch – the curry bases, the sauces and condiments – and sticking to their policy of "if it comes in a jar we won’t use it".