This week we returned to the Siam Bayshore Resort in South Pattaya to try some outstanding authentic Thai cuisine created at their signature Siam Elephant Bar and Restaurant.  This elegant resort is located in the tropical and lush grounds with its charming pavilions set between Second Road and world famous Walking Street.   In fact, the main entrance to the restaurant is from Walking Street at the Bali Hai end, where one is welcomed by friendly staff into the peaceful world of Siam Bayshore, which is probably one of the oldest hotels in Pattaya going way back to 1974.   The Siam Elephant Restaurant has established itself for producing excellent top quality Thai dishes.  It has an indoor section and open air bar and restaurant terrace that overlooks Pattaya Bay where one can enjoy a signature cocktail or cold beer and literally watch the world go by along Walking Street.  The modern style Siam Elephant creates authentic and traditional recipes known to Western palates, such as Red or Green Curry or Phad Thai Koong Sod, (Noodles, Shrimp, Tofu, Bean Sprouts and Tamarind Sauce) but also some very interesting Thai regional dishes that are unique to the creativity of the executive chefs.    

Appetizers such as Pho Pia Tod being deep fried Vegetable Spring Rolls with a Sweet and Spicy Sauce Dip.   Rhum, a tasty mixture of sauteed minced Chicken and Shrimp, Peanuts, Onion and Garlic, wrapped in Egg Noodle Nests.

They have an unusual assortment of Thai Salads, including Yum Pla Salid Dad Diew which is a Crispy and Spicy Sundried Fish with a subtle Herb Dip. Yum Tua Pu, being sliced Wing Beans, with Chicken, Shrimps in Peanut and Sweet Chili Sauce.  

There are also a good range of Soups and Curries available on the menu, including the ever popular spicy  Tom Yam Khung made with giant River Prawns, Mushrooms, Galangal, Kaffir Leaves, Lemongrass and Chili and the classic Kaeng Phed Ped Yang, being sliced BBQ Duck in a Red Curry.

We sampled a variety of the appetizers and specialty dishes from the menu, which all came in traditional Thai style; that is all at once!   Each dish different and each one really tasted wonderful. We had Tung Tong, golden crispy parcels filled with Shrimp and Water Chestnuts and served with Plum Sauce.   Karawake Sod Si, being tiny bite size Egg Pancakes filled with Minced Sweet Sausage and Pork.  Kanom Pang Nah Koong, deep fried marinated minced Shrimp and Pork on toasted Bread Squares.  My favourite was Ma Hor, sliced Pineapple shaped like a spoon, and topped with Sauteed Pork, Ginger and fresh Herbs. A must try!

For a Salad we chose Yum Sam-O, a refreshing Pomelo Fruit Salad with Roasted Coconut, Shrimps and Shredded Chicken.   From the wonderful choice of Curries we tried another classic dish, Kaeng Massaman Nuea - with Beef, Peanuts, Onions and Potatoes.  From the Fish section, it was Pla Sum-Lee Dad Diew, succulent and meaty textured fried Cotton Fish with Mango and Chili Dip.

All served with a mound of delicious steamed Thai Homali (Jasmine) Rice.

This was followed by a specialty of the house Dessert, simply called Coconut Delight, which it surely was. Coconut Milk Sherbet served with fresh Coconut meat and roasted Peanuts, making a super conclusion to a expertly presented and outstanding meal.   If you like top quality Thai food at fair prices then you will not be disappointed at the Siam Elephant Bar and Restaurant.

All menu prices are liable to government tax and 10% service charge.

The Siam Elephant is open every day from 6pm until 11pm.  Telephone: 038 428 678-81.