A tranquil haven amid the bustling Inverness Street, Zensai is not your typical Thai restaurant.

The Venue
A modest yet stylish wooden entrance greets visitors to this Thai restaurant on Camden Town’s vibrant Inverness Street. Once inside there is a reception area before the restaurant splits into two levels. Upstairs is a bright Zen garden-style dining area, complete with a massive slate water feature which makes up the back wall, while downstairs is further seating in the much darker bar area.

The Atmosphere
Zensai has put the emphasis on Zen, in particular in its upstairs section. The water feature provides a tranquil backing track to the quiet chatter of the customers. The limited space restricts the amount of seating available which adds to the cosy nature. Downstairs, the dimmer lighting makes for more atmospheric surroundings in the more comfortable booth seating. Regular club nights liven things up with live DJs till late.

The Food
The menu at Zensai is nothing short of excellent. A wide range of the traditional and not-so-traditional Thai dishes, prepared and served with an attention to detail that is often lacking in the increasing number of Thai restaurants. The menu hosts a good mix of the sweet, sour and spicy favourites, such as the hot and spicy wun tun soup starter – a perfect warmer as the colder nights draw in. The delicious mango duck – tender and juicy pieces of roast duck generously coated in a plate-lickingly sweet and sticky mango sauce – for just over £6.00 is excellent value, though note that the restaurant does not automatically include rice and noodles with the main courses. Zensai also offers a popular set menu for groups at around £13.50 for two courses, an increasingly popular option for visitors to Zensai.

The Drink
The only rival to the food is the stunning selection of cocktails available, all made with an obvious pride and reasonably priced. The Crystal Japan, a champagne cocktail flavoured with Midori, is a sweet green delight, while the Breakfast at Tennessee with Jack Daniels and Grand Marnier is definitely for the serious drinker. A selection of cocktail and beers are two-for-the-price-of-one during the happy hour during the week, which only adds to their success.

The Last Word
The increasing number of Thai restaurants in London could learn a lot from this example of the ideal balance of great food, drink and atmosphere. Zensai is real treat for any occasion.

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