Published: July 31, 2020 | Updated: 31st July 2020
An authentic new Thai restaurant and bar launches in Bournemouth next week.
Kala Thai officially opens on Friday August 7.
It will feature locally sourced produce and genuine Thai ingredients paired with glamorous cocktails
The restaurant and bar, in Old Christchurch Road opposite Horseshoe Common, will be operated by Thai businessman and chef Tom Saengthong.
Tom, who hails from Bangkok, Thailand, has chosen to settle in Bournemouth.
He made the decision to take on a town centre premises having previously operated several successful family-run businesses in Bangkok.
Following major investment and a full refit, the restaurant will open seven days per week, from midday until late for dining and drinks.
Tom will be supported by a team of four authentic Thai chefs and his wife, while his new venture creates additional opportunities for bar and front of house staff.
Tom said: “We are very excited to bring our new restaurant to the area.
“Covid delayed the launch by several weeks, but we are looking forward to opening and welcoming diners.
“The menu will include traditional favourites such as satays, dumplings, curries, Pad Thai and stir fry dishes.
“Several specialist dishes include Weeping Tiger, a dark rum and soy marinated sirloin steak served on an oriental stone, and Duck Honey Tamarind.
“All will be cooked to order in our kitchen and we do not use MSG.
“We’ve got great cocktails to whet the appetite,
“They include Thai Cuchi Cuchi, Thai Style Bourbon and ginger, Lychee Martini, an array of Mojitos and Margaritas, plus our own Spiced Rum Lassi and Spicy Thai Basil and Mint Mojito.
“For non-drinkers, we offer Thai Pearl Cocktail, Lime Leaf Cooler and the Mango and Coconut Cocktail, to name just a few.
“The restaurant and bar are spacious, therefore we can adhere to social distancing requirements.
“Despite opening in post-lockdown circumstances, we have seating for 80 inside and 50 alfresco, whatever the weather, under a bespoke electric roof.
“The bespoke dining tables have been created by our fitters using locally sourced wood from the New Forest.
“We aim to create an atmospheric, stylish venue where Thai cuisine, cooked and created by Thai staff, can be enjoyed until 2am, complemented by exotic cocktails, quality beers, wines and great music.”
Tom hopes that the government’s mid-week offer and Budget reduction on VAT in the hospitality sector will encourage locals and visitors to come along and sample the Kala Thai vibe.
For more information visit www.kala-thai.com or https://www.facebook.com/kalathaibournemouth and @kala.thai