Vibrant Flavours.
Soho has long been blessed with restaurant options of various ethnic persuasions, but Banana Tree, a pan-Asian restaurant in Wardour Street is, for me at least, a favourite for both food and service.
Wardour Street is near the tourist attractions of Shaftesbury Avenue, Leicester Square, Covent Garden and China Town. Banana Tree has plenty of competition, to which it squares up very nicely. The ambiance is polished casual which works perfectly with the pan-Asian cuisine. It is the restaurant of choice for office workers and visitors alike. I noted that there were plenty of regulars and that is a good sign when there are a great many other eateries in the neighbourhood. But after the working day Banana Tree is also ideal for a pre-theatre meal.
Mekong Prawns were my guest’s starter. They were crispy butterfly prawn-meat patties served with chilli salsa. These were well-textured and piping hot. The delicate flesh was complemented by the spicy dipping sauce. A great nibble to enjoy with a cocktail.
I ordered Singapore Laksa Soup. This was a steaming bowl of classically seasoned coconut soup with, in this case, chicken – although one could also have it with either tofu or seafood. This was rich and warming and perfect on a cold London afternoon. The spice was evident but balanced, though only the fearless would chomp on the red chilli garnish!
Generous portions here
Massaman Curry was my companion’s main dish. This was a beautifully presented aromatic mild Thai curry with slow-cooked chicken, tamarind paste, lemongrass to the fore, and coconut milk, garnished with peanuts. This curry was served with rice, prawn crackers and slaw on the side. Generous portions here.
I was tempted by Indonesian Chicken Jawa with Nasi Goreng and Asian Slaw. This was another substantial plate. De-boned chicken thighs were marinated in Javanese aromatic spices, and slowly chargrilled chilli salsa. I would definitely order this again, although I suspect other menu items might turn my head. If this lunch experience was representative of the other dishes then I will be working my way through the whole list. I’ll call it research!
Opening Hours:
Monday 12:00 – 22:30
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 12:00 – 23:00
Friday, Saturday 12:00 – 00:30
Sunday 12:00 – 22:30
Banana Tree Soho
103 Wardour Street
London, W1F 0UG
Phone 020 7437 1351
Visit Banana Tree here