My latest post is in definite violation of the idea behind my blog i.e the idea of recommending good places to eat, places that make my stomach growl and my bloggers hungry with every descriptive word ! I’ve decided to make an exception to Smiling BKK due to the fantastic experiece we had at that place, not once…but twice!

I was told about Smiling BKK a few months ago - a place described to me in a way I couldn’t even conjure. A hole in the wall - a Thai restaurant with no address - wild and eccentric - so weird - Thursday is a themed night - nothing is what it seems - food is below average are only but a few things I’ve heard. 

Obviously, my friends and I were sold at “themed nights” so on Saturday, clearly not a themed night, we decided to dress up Androgynous a la Thai!With our bow ties firmly wrapped around our necks and suspenders in place we headed to Smiling BKK.

(Location:nestled cozily in a back street in Jumeirah surrounded by little random neighbourhood dukkans)

A mustached Mona Lisa sign, very much in trend with 2012, greeted us at the door of a very dark yet colourfully lit place. If you’ve ever wondered what happens to furniture/household items you’ve disposed of over the years then let me assure you there’s a high chance its sitting somewhere in Smiling BKK! Its walls are filled with mismatched picture frames including those of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on their wedding day, random colourful jerseys as well as artwork that is too raunchy and controversial to be displayed at any art gallery in Dubai. 

Nothing about this place is normal! Upon being seated, you are given a tambourine like stick to rattle “if you need anything”! The menu is longer than the music list at a Japanese karaoke bar and the names of the dishes will make you re-think your favourite Thai dishes because now I know for a fact that Pad Thai will never sound the same to me!

REVIEW

Food

Not my favourite Thai place however some dishes we good. My favourites:

1. Sticky rice
2. Spicy chicken with cashew nuts
3. Green curry
4. “Fook Mi” Noodles
5. Fried Banana for dessert since the mango w/ sticky rice was unavailable

Service

Pleasant the first time we went - I suppose the place is so small so makes it easier to get good service. Hospitable Thai waitress during our second visit who spent time chatting with us and recommending dishes.

Ambiance

FAN-TAS-TIC! and never a dull moment!

Smiling BKK 

Location: Behind Emarat Petrol Station on Al Wasl Road (next to Emirates NBD)

Telephone: +971 4 349 6677