We know that Jim Thompson reimagined the exoticism of and reinvigorated the Thai silk craft. But Thompson’s brand of vibrant and sensual Thai-inspired aesthetics has translated deliciously into food.

 

Occupying a sprawling colonial house surrounded by wise trees and soft-spoken water features, Jim Thompson Restaurant & Wine Bar plates luscious, bright fare that pays homage to traditional Thai cuisine.

 

As you settle into your chair, no less backed by plush Jim Thompson silk cushions, you’ll take in a sensorial feast: resonant metallic clangs of traditional Thai music, sumptuous and exotic decor and elegantly dressed Thai dancers slowly weaving around the tables.

 

The gustatory journey at Jim Thompson Restaurant & Wine Bar is equally as layered as the visual and auditory experience. The vibrancy and complexity of Thai dishes often comes out best in fresh salads.

 

The restaurant’s banana blossom salad is packed with a rainbow of flavours in each mouthful. The dish is a toss of whole shrimps, cashews and shallots that are fragranced with handfuls of fresh Thai basil and lingering red chili. 

 

One of the newer salads on the menu is the eggplant salad – a dish of stacked sliced grilled red pepper, eggplant and scallop served on a bed of tangy and spicy minced chicken, scallions and coriander. The dish gets a boost of earthy, luxurious fragrance with a drizzling of white truffle oil.

 

Traditional Thai food enthusiasts will fall for their rendition of seafood tom yum. The rich, gingery and sour soup is lifted with generous handfuls of fresh herbs. Make sure to ask for an accompaniment of red rice when you order.

 

Round off your Siamese experience with a cocktail or two. The concoctions here use only fresh fruits and herbs and tickle your palate just as the food does. Don’t miss the Siam Sun Ray which is a mix of house made lemongrass infused vodka, Malibu rum, lime juice, mint, kaffir lime leaves, ginger, red chili and finally more fresh lemongrass.

 

45 Minden Road, Dempsey Hill. Tel: 6475 6088