There is nothing like the smile and refinement of a beautiful lady to take your breath away. “Chanadda” (the Thai word for beautiful lady) is a restaurant that does actually that. With elegant surroundings, the pleasing tones of traditional Thai instruments and the subtly spiced taste of aristocratic Thai cuisine, Chanadda hosts an evening of that special “Taste of Thai”.

Situated in the Katathani, Phuket Beach Resort at the quiet and secluded Kata Noi Beach, Chanadda exudes a notion of peaceful serenity. Dark coloured hardwood floors and ceiling with ornate d?cor reminiscent of Thailand’s heritage characterise this small exclusive restaurant and provide the stage for a journey into Thai culture and history.

We began our evening with a pre-dinner cocktail, the “Top of Siam”, a medley of rum, liqueurs and juices for which the hotel has won first place in Phuket and fifth place in Thailand in bartending contests. This was followed with a Thai wine, Chateau de Loei, Syrah 2003, a dry red, that complemented the food to come.

With only an evening to venture into Thailand’s culinary traditions, it was suggested that we sample a range of dishes. What was to come were light and subtly spiced dishes with a presentation that deserves special mention: different shapes, colours and textures offered a fascinating and creative way to serve the food and were a treat to the senses.

Thoong Thong which aptly translates to “money bag” due to its appearance, are bean curd parcels filled with minced shrimp. What we initially mistook for a dessert due to its lavender colour and jelly-like texture was Cho Meuang Savoey, a flower-shaped dumpling filled with mixed chicken. We also enjoyed Ghoong Hom Sabai, fried white prawns wrapped in egg-net and a soup of garden vegetables and shrimp, Guengliang Talang, as starters. The Pla Tord Samun Prai, deep fried marinated fish with Thai herbs and the Ghoong Phed Phong, wok fried prawns and vegetables with yellow curry which followed, completed our culinary experience.

Tucked away at Kata Noi Beach is a haven of authentic Thai tastes, distinctive sights and sounds served in an elegant setting with warm Thai hospitality. An introduction to Chanadda makes for an enchanting journey into Thailand’s heritage.