This is the last in a six-part series of profiles on some of the Saanich Peninsula’s wonderful restaurants and pubs.
“Interesting or exciting because of being unusual or unfamiliar, because they are from foreign countries.” This is the essence of “exotic,” as defined by the Macmillan Dictionary. The Thai Corner Restaurant in Sidney brings all the flavours of a faraway country to our community in more ways than one. With tantalizing food and shades of a unique and different culture, the popular downtown restaurant enhances our community with an international buzz and a rich exotic tapestry of cultural ingredients.
Kashane and Nina Chalermwat, owners of the Thai Corner Restaurant, are always amiable and charming hosts. Digging into my Ginger Beef with Coconut Rice, I was giddy with anticipation. Was I ever in for an exotic treat! The Ginger Beef was the best thing this side of heaven. The ginger coating had just the right “tanginess,” the sweet and sour vibes perfectly matched, and the beautiful sunny-ginger explosion in my mouth will keep making memories for years to come. The beef was fresh and savoury. I have never had rice cooked in coconut milk before, but I am now a “coconut-rice junkie,” addicted for life. The rice was cooked to perfection, infused with a delicate mellow taste of coconut that made my taste-buds dance the tarantella. “It’s very popular, Doreen,” beams Kashane.
Sitting in the light of the window eating divine Thai food, I imagined that I was chilling on the Hat Phra Nang beach in Thailand, laying in soft pink sand and surrounded by gigantic limestone cliffs and breathtaking emerald water. Kashane talks fondly of his native country and their cuisine. “Thai food involves a lot of spices, herbs and different vegetables.” He explains that Thai food evolved through many Asian historical influences, with a mix of different international cuisines from India and China. “Thailand was at a historical crossroads with many other countries. Spicy, sour, sweet and spicy altogether. That’s Thai food!” Kashane talks about the practicality of using many vegetables in Thai food: his father would pick whatever looked good around their house, plucking herbs and plants. The Thai native values creativity and innovation in his restaurant, taking an “artistic” perspective. With more chefs, they are being adventurous with the Lunch Buffet menu, offering more variety of exotic tastes – in true Thai tradition. “Thai food is not boring!” Different herbs such as lemongrass ignite the palate and a variety of special chilli peppers add a tropical exotic edge to western taste buds.
Caring customer service is a high priority for the Chalermwats. Kashane is always there, making sure diners get a silver-lined dining experience. They try to accommodate different customers with varying tastes, going the extra mile. With her warm smile and kind manner, Nina meets patrons when they come in, talks with them and makes them comfortable. In true Thai fashion, the owners welcome visitors to their “home.” In Thailand, social activity usually involves eating: “Hello, how are you? Have you eaten today?” The Thai Corner Restaurant is a warm friendly community gathering place, to relax, eat and be in the comforting atmosphere of a fascinating culture. Nina is excited about their new “loyalty card:” customers put money on the card, then every time they dine, a percentage is added onto their balance.
After being at their downtown location for only about eight months, the owners have seen an upsurge in customers and they are enjoying a thriving business. They have hired more staff just to handle the crowds: “We have two full-time chefs and one part-time chef now.”
So, if you have a yearning for Pad Thai, saunter down to the Thai Corner Restaurant. You will see why our community is far richer for this taste of an exotic faraway tropical land and how our community is enhanced by the culture of people with good, caring values.
Kashane and Nina thank all their loyal customers for their patronage.
Contact: www.thai-corner-restaurant.com.
