Mons Ban Sabai

Overview

"I have the simplest tastes. I am always satisfied with the best."

This Oscar Wilde quote is featured on the menu at Mons Ban Sabai in Camp Hill. As it turns out, it's an apt introduction to the dining experience at what is one of Brisbane's finest Thai restaurants.

Finding authentic Thai food in the suburbs isn't always the easiest of missions, but with Mons Ban Sabai, residents of South-East Brisbane have a gem on their hands. Located amongst a hub of small businesses on Martha Street, the restaurant is open seven days a week and has gained both local popularity and critical acclaim over the years. Although, coming from the same team that's also behind the wonderful Green Papaya restaurant and Pawpaw Café, that's hardly a surprise. Most notably, it was awarded Best Thai Restaurant in Queensland in the Restaurant and Catering Awards for Excellence in 2007, 2008 and 2009, and gained a Chef's hat in the 2012 Australian Good Food Guide awards.

Walking into the restaurant, you'll notice that it's not huge. If you haven't made a booking on a busy night, steel yourself for potential disappointment. Early in the week, however, you should be safe with a walk-in. The interior of the restaurant is divided into sections so that no matter where you sit, the dining space feels intimate and cosy. These spaces can also be configured to suit large groups or functions.

Now, to the menu. Entrees on offer range from spring rolls ($10.90) and Tom Yum soup ($14.90) to deep fried tofu ($11.90) and Thai fish cakes ($13.90). Standing out on the curry menu is the Gang Massaman ($22.90) – tender beef and potato pieces in a thick sauce dotted with peanuts – or for something more exotic, the Island curry with roasted duck, lychees and pineapple ($26.90). Of the seafood menu, the Pla Lard Prik – juicy fish fillets in an onion and sweet chilli sauce ($25.90) - is delicious. The servings are generous, but don't worry; if you can't finish your meal the staff will prepare a takeaway bag for you to take home where you can enjoy it all over again.

For those who aren't satisfied with just taking great Thai food home, Mons Ban Sabai also runs cooking classes.

Images: Hennessytrill