Maphrao On Review
26 Jul, 2010 | Edwina Popescu and William Barns Graham
Peering in at the candle-lit interior of Asian restaurant Maphrao On, you cannot help but be drawn in by the wooden furnishings and Asian objets d’intérêt creating a romantic but homely atmosphere. Ascending the narrow spiral staircase to the second floor reveals a bar-lounge, classically decorated in black and red. Here you can enjoy something from their extensive cocktail menu under the smiling gaze of a (wooden) pregnant chimpanzee. The large cushions are ideal for collapsing onto once you have eaten beyond the point of movement – which is easy to do, for the food here is phenomenal. Whether you opt for Chinese, Burmese, Indonesian, Thai or Indian, the rich aromas of ginger, lemongrass, coconut and spices transport you to exotic lands. The full sensation can only be described as the four seasons simultaneously flooding into your mouth. The food is beautifully presented, the service friendly and efficient. Prices are steeper at “Maphrao On”, but for what it offers, this is one restaurant not to be missed. Diners will emerge sporting the same expression as that of the smiling Buddha who serves as the restaurant’s logo – one of deep, enlightened satisfaction.
