346-348 Garratt Lane,
Balham,
London,
SW18 4ES
0872 148 5409
The ViewLondon Review
Amaranth is arguably the best Thai restaurant in London. It’s worth travelling from all over the capital for, as long as you book well in advance.The VenueAmaranth is as basic as a car showroom, with big windows and hardwood floors. The decor and the tables would do Ikea proud, but fortunately the food is much better than the interior design. The only real criticism is the lighting and the huge Everest climb to the toilets.
The AtmosphereAmaranth is located in a trendy area populated by people from the southern hemisphere, so the noise levels can get loud – especially combined with the bring-your-own policy and the small corkage fee. Don’t let the noise get in the way of the place, however. The staff are brilliant and are very attentive.
The FoodAs David Dickinson would say, this place is as cheap as chips. The Royal Thai menu gives you a taste of some of the best food the restaurant offers for around £20.00, and it’s absolutely fantastic. The tiger prawns are to die for and the coconut soup tastes like it’s been flown in from some of Koh Samui’s best restaurants. Try the beef panang too as this is fantastic with the freshly cooked steamed rice.
The DrinkAmaranth is a bring your own venue so if you want to come with a few bottles of wine for you and friends then it’s just a small corkage fee. There’s an off-licence directly across the road from the restaurant, and there’s no charge for taking in beer or spirits.
The Last WordThis is arguably the best Thai restaurant in London. Although it doesn’t have the gloss of the some of the capital’s upscale Thai venues, it’s great for an authentic taste of Thailand.