Go Go Daddy - CLOSED

Overview

If you're over the days of sub par bao and average pad Thai, listen up. Go Go Daddy is here to restore your faith in Asian fusion.

From the streets of Bangkok to a cosy corner at Ponsonby Central, Go Go Daddy captures the intensity and character of Thailand: bright, fun and full of flavour. The new canteen takes the place of Burmese-Indian restaurant, Honeybear, where the vibe was giant dosa, curry poutine and spiked health elixirs. It was a quick turn around by acclaimed hospitality duo Mark Wallbank and Che Barrington.

Step into the courtyard and you'll find yourself greeted by a face just as excited to see you as you are to see the menu. As they fill your glass they will also maintain a glass half full attitude, and as they explain the menu you will have to contain your excitement.

Pink lights illuminate the space, but not in the way that makes you want to flee; instead they charge the vibe with electricity that can't be seen but rather felt. Whether you're inside or out you can't escape the dynamic energy that occupies every inch of space, every conversation and every bite of food. A bright wall mural by French artist Egle Zvirblyte looks how the restaurant feels; vibrant, quirky and totally tasteful. The art is carried through to the menu, making the experience of ordering food an even more exciting one.

Veering off the well-beaten track of Asian fusion cuisine, where hoisin sauce is used by the gallon, and where pork belly gets stuck in your teeth instead of your stomach, Go Go Daddy introduces Thai food that you haven't tried before (or if you have, you'll be jumping at the chance to try again). The charred rice noodles featuring a cocktail of Chinese broccoli, straw mushroom, and crispy shallots ($18) is worth its weight in gold. Similarly the duck fried rice ($18) or slow cooked beef cheek laksa ($20) is a valuable addition to the lineup. Top it off with some Milo chocolate mousse, which tastes just as nostalgic as it does wonderful.

Go Go Daddy is Thai street food at its finest, without the risk of food poisoning. Don't spend your cash on a plane ticket; a trip to Ponsonby Central is really all you need.