We warm up at the chic bar area – the entire venue is decorated with a plush, deep mahogany-style wood, with Thai lanterns on the tables.
The menus are extensive – for the drinks there are pages of cocktails, wines, champagnes – and for the food, there is a myriad of fish and meat dishes as well as one of the best vegetarian and vegan selections I’ve come across in a restaurant.
We decide to leave ourselves in the hands of our waiter while we sip on a glass of champagne – well, it is Christmas after all and relax. There’s sing-song music playing in the background that wouldn’t be out of place in a spa.
Our starters arrive – a selection of spring rolls, which are crisp and light, with a delicious sweet and sour sauce; Som Tum fresh green papaya salad as well as a tempura-style lobster – which gets the thumbs up from Claire.
All the dishes are served on wooden plates – continuing the natural theme throughout the restaurant.
Pleased with our starters, we’re intrigued about what the chef will choose for our mains. We don’t have to wait long to find out. We delve into what is one of the best massaman curries I’ve ever had – a rich, smooth dish which is bursting with flavour. There’s also a Pad Thai, a moreish stir-fried seafood with blackbean sauce and rice.
Dishes cleared away, we decide to have a quick look at the dessert menu – which is always dangerous. A few minutes later, I’m delving into a light chocolate brownie and lemongrass ice-cream and Claire’s enjoying Guay Ob Ma prow Sod – layered caramelised banana and coconut pudding with banana ice-cream.
We wrap up warm to brave the elements outside – but one thing is for sure, you’re guaranteed a warm experience inside The Mango Tree.
Mango Tree
46 Grosvenor Place, SW1X 7EQ
Call 020 7823 1888 to book a table
mangotree.org.uk.
Starters from £7, mains from £13.50.
