Khao Khai “Thai Chicken House” perfectly encapsulates an authentic Thai diner experience. Its quaint ambiance and explosive arsenal of flavors and fragrances are exactly what you would expect in the Land of Smiles.

Their imaginative use of dynamic flavors – mostly sweet and spicy – served in the most humble setting is the charm that makes Thai food one of the most sought after cuisines. No matter where you go in Thailand, be it in their busy local eateries or even their ever-lively night markets, you will get to relish incredible creations served in their raw and honest forms – no extravagant backdrop, luxurious plating, and the like needed.

Khao Khai does an excellent job in recreating this gastronomic voyage within the trendy neighborhood of Poblacion, Makati City. Its decor – from its interiors down to the nitty-gritty elements – is as Thai as it can get. Music, paintings, etc. You name it. And then there are the restaurant’s food choices.

Much like the Philippines, Thailand has several regions with distinct cooking styles. Well, Khao Khai ultimately ensures that Thai food is well represented here. In their menu, there are dishes inspired by various parts of the country like Isaan (North) and Chiang Mai (South).

The owner, Daniel Mabanta, handpicked some of his favorites, which every food connoisseur should get to try. Here they are:

Nag Kai Tort (Php300 | Good for 1-3 people)

This is fried chicken skin coated in sweet-spicy sauce. This appetizer is so tasty that you can probably finish this on your own. It goes perfectly well with Chang (Php95 | Good for 1), a bottle of local Thai beer.

Victory Wings (Php290 | Good for 2 people)

This is a good alternative for the Nag Kai Tort and is my personal favorite. These spicy chicken wings have a hint of acidity that will make you savor it down to the bones. Want rice to go along with these wings? Order a cup of Sticky Rice for only Php65!

Drunken Spaghetti (Php350 | Good for 2-3 people)

This Central Thai creation is similar to Aglio e Olio. It’s an oil-based pasta with garlic, chili, basil, and anchovies.

Gai Tod (Php115/one piece; Php190/two pieces; P260/three pieces | Good for 1-3 people)

Fried chicken is one of the most famous street foods in Thailand. Sink your teeth in this local favorite, and crunch into its crispy skin and tender meat.

Gai Yang (Php200/quarter; Php350/half | Good for 2-3 people)

They also have a Northern Thai-style roasted chicken called Gai Yang. It’s equally as good as the fried variant – it’s all up to your preference. Both come with Jasmine or Sticky Rice and Dipping Sauce.

Dry Pork Curry (Php225 | Good for 1 person)

Dried Curry is a specialty in Southern Thailand. It’s as aromatic and flavorful as regular curry, but with no sauce. One of the must-tries at Khao Khai!

Moo Krob Kra Pao (Php350 | Good for 1-2 people)

At first glance, one might mistake Moo Krob Kra Pao for sisig. You’re not entirely wrong. It’s stir-fried pork belly with chili, fish sauce, and holy basil. It also comes with a crispy sunny-side-up egg.

Thai Iced Tea (Php70 | Good for 1 person) and Spiked Iced Tea (Php90 | Good for 1 person)

To saturate all of the powerful flavors of Khao Khai, legitimate Thai Iced Tea can do the trick. For an affordable price of Php70, you get to refresh yourself with this delicious drink. Not in the mood for beer? Get the Spiked version of the milk tea! Be warned, though: it can be strong!

Have you tried Khao Khai before?

Khao Khai “Thai Chicken House”

5772 Ebro, Makati

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KhaoKhaiPH

Instagram: @KhaoKhaiPH