There are times in life where you see yourself indecisive, unable to choose what type of cuisine you would like to savour. Perhaps it’s the hunger, not letting you think clearly, perhaps you just want more than one type of food? In cases such as those, have you ever felt like going to a restaurant which combines flavours from across the continents of the world? A bit of Mexican, a touch of European, a taste of local Thai food or perhaps a good fulfilling course of typical Vietnamese dishes. If that is you, then the Café Mekong has exactly what you are looking for. Recently relocated to Soi 94 merely a few streets south of Market Village and 200 metres past the railway tracks, it has undergone some wonderful remodelling.
The Hot Magazine team arrived to the tune of some vibrant Gypsy Kings music, and with that flair we were immediately presented with some beverage options. Mojitos and margaritas followed, and whilst we sipped on these delectable cocktails we accommodated ourselves in the ambiance of the establishment: Spacious and decorated with a predominant white theme, it truly provides a sense of comfort. Stylish red-themed modernist paintings contrast the white walls and set a nice scene, equally reproduced in the bar area.
The first thing our team was brought was a complementary appetizer in the form of a sweet corn cake. Presented in a small concave plate, it had a crunchy first texture, which became tender as one savoured the corn kernels. These released their natural sweetness which spread across the palate, followed subtly by a curious kick of the lemon grass spices with which it had been infused. A wonderful and unique teaser.
Our evening brought more focus to the signature Mexican and Vietnamese dishes that are prepared here and it was the latter with which we began our entre: Fresh chicken and shrimp spring rolls with sweet peanut sauce and chili paste. This dish combined both the elements of land and sea, beginning with the distinct taste of the shrimp and which was thoroughly complemented by the soft chicken strips. These added a smoky flavour to general taste and was wonderfully contrasted by the nutty touch of the sweet peanut sauce. It is the chilli paste however that gave it a distinct kick, highlighting all the flavours with a touch of tanginess. A wonderful dish all in all.
Next we were presented with some variation from across the globe, in the form of some crunchy Mexican tacos. The first thing one noticed was the distinct smokiness of the chicken, which was complemented wonderfully by the separate tomato sauce. There was then a creamy touch, provided in combined fashion both by the crème fraiche and the Asadero cheese. The beans gave the dish a rounded taste, a certain hickory smokiness and roasted feel to the palate that ended each delectable bite.
Next we ventured back to Vietnam and its intriguing tastes, in the form of Vietnamese Grilled Beef. This was a confection of beef pods wrapped in betel leaves that had been left to simmer in a special marinade and were neatly presented with cocoons of vermicelli siders. Very well cooked, tender and flavourful, this was the dish that impressed the team the most because of its distinct taste. The leaves granted it a wonderful dimension and the vermicelli added to the array of textures.
Lastly came another classical Mexican dish in the form of chicken fajitas. Presented in a sizzling circular plate, they came flaming out the kitchen, ready for consumption. As we finished mounding the meat on the tortilla and applied the platter of condiments with which it came, we took big juicy bites. The sweetness of the onions first kicked through. This was complemented by the flavourful meaty hint of the sauce and of course the wonderful touch of the chicken, with a touch of spice. The dish was wonderfully ended with the characteristic aroma of the red peppers. A wonderful combination all in all.
Café Mekong is definitely a place worth visiting in the up and rising restaurant filled Soi 94. Vietnamese, Mexican, European and Thai, this restaurant does it all beautifully. Our team was left thoroughly satisfied and look forward to going back soon again.
Café Mekong
Soi Hua Hin 94
032 903 551