I have always had quite an affection for King Street in Hammersmith. It is close to where my father was born, and home to a few of my favourite restaurants. It also neighbours Chiswick High Road, a part of London I like to spend time in. It was a few years ago, that I noticed while on an evening out 101 Thai Kitchen. Situated on King Street, It’s Pink coloured unassuming front blends easily into its urban surroundings. I was immediately struck at how busy it was, in fact it was busy every time I walked past there after. I made a mental note to pay a visit, and last year I finally did.
The moment I walked into 101, I could sence it was a restaurant all about food. Now that might sound strange, but there are a lot of restaurants now that focus too heavily on the ‘experience’, and not enough on the food. For me memories are made with flavours, not interiors. As I was led towards my table, I could see by the plates leaving the kitchen and the beautiful aroma, I was in for quite a treat. On reading the menu, it quickly became apparent that the dishes carried a high level of Thai authenticity, and none of this had been lost in its transition to west London. Choosing what to eat proved to be quite difficult, I finally picked 2 starters and one main course, but I needed one more. I asked the waitress to pick a ‘signature’ main, that was regally ordered at 101 and to surprise me, I waited with anticipation.
Choosing Thai iced tea to accompany my meal, soon my starters arrived. Tord Mun Plaa spicy fish cakes carried a gentle heat and were both beautifully cooked as tasty. To accompany them Kanom Jeeb, delightful steamed dumplings. Their soft outer perfectly protecting a delicate filling of chicken and prawn. The sodium content of the soy dipping sauce complemented the subtle sweetness of the prawns with the chicken building both texture and flavour. Main courses arrived promptly and the aroma seemed to draw me in. My ‘surprize’ main course looked wonderful. Laotion fish salad is a combination of fried fish, salad, fresh and dried chilli, lemongrass, lime leaves and toasted ground rice.
This is Thai 101’s own creation and both looked and smelled amazing. Beautiful delicate fish pieces, deep-fried and crisp, lead to serious heat. Red chilli instantly heightening my taste senses, lemongrass somehow intensified the spice, while cooling and refreshing at the same time. Tomatoes added sweetness, toasted rice texture, making very complex and delicious tasting dish. Curried Sea Bass, its sauce rich in spices, red chilli and peppercorn delicately sweetened by basil leaves. Sea bass soft and so very flavoursome.
Thai 101’s plain and minimal interior is no reflection of their food. Dishes are bold, flavours big and pack serious complexity. I think the Laotion Fish Salad was quite possibly one of the most balanced dishes I ate last year. Food has a real essence of authenticity and is excellent value. I have enjoyed dining at 101 with both friends and family and is fast becoming one of my favourite restaurants.
3 Courses With Drinks, Expect To Pay Around £25 – £30 Per Person.
For More Information On 101 Thai Kitchen Please See http://www.101thaikitchen.com
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