Prior to my trip, I was doing some research on what to eat in Krabi. Some I read (over the internet) recommended western cuisines while some just pointed straight to fast food joint (read : McDonald’s). I didn’t really fancy those and hence, I did more research.
And that’s how I stumbled upon a website / blog that mentioned about this place; Lae Lay Grill, a mid-high end restaurant that serves local Thai food as well as western food. Apart from good local cuisines, it is said that they offer stunning view overlooking the mountains and sea which enhances one’s dining experience.
Located on the mountain, the environment was cosy and comfortable with slow soothing contemporary songs being played over the air.
Although the tables were limited, they were arranged spaciously with customers dining al-fresco style. They practice open kitchen concept and hence, you get to view the chefs working out their magic.
Their menu are pretty extensive; categorised to sections such as appetizers, types of meat, seafood, noodles, rice and western food. They have separate menu for drinks and dessert too.
Coconuts
Refreshing and sweet, the coconuts were good although they were a little small size. They are best served chilled. Bliss…
Tom Yum Goong (220 Baht)
A visit to Thailand would not be complete if you didn’t try their tom yum. They are after all the originators of this famous dish. The version by Lae Lay Grill didn’t disappoint us. Sourish, spicy and appetising, the soup was good. The usage of kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass was at an appropriate level that they didn’t overpower the soup. Best of all, the prawns were fresh. We liked it so much that we finished it and left us sweating for more.
Squids Stir-Fried with Salted Egg Yolk (220 Baht)
Squids were okay – chewy texture, but the way they fried it wasn’t. I guess it was our mistake to compare it with the ones found in Malaysia. It was close to tasteless; the essential component (salted egg yolk) was vague and it was slightly sloppy wet. They were stir-fried with vegetables such as bell peppers.
Prawns with Chopped Garlics (420 Baht)
There were loads of chopped garlics and green onions but they didn’t overpower the dish and the natural sweet taste of the prawns was still intact. The tiger prawns were really fresh; firm with slight hint of crunch texture.
Pork Rib in Spicy Red Curry Soup (180 Baht)
Fearing that we can’t take spicy food, we were told ahead that this dish would be really spicy for some. We didn’t heed the warning and we went ahead and ordered it. It came in a small bowl and we were totally baffled by it; the portion and the ‘spicyness’. It wasn’t spicy at all. Not a single bit. It was so mild that it didn’t tickle our tastebuds at all. The pork ribs were a lil chewy and the portion was little – 7 tiny pieces to be exact. The good thing about it though was that it was fragrant with hints of various types of spices being used in the dish.
Pineapple Fried Rice (220 Baht)
The pineapple fried rice looked promising. It came with decent amount of pineapple chunks, prawns and chicken and can easily feed for 2~3 person. Sadly, the rice tasted rather bland. The crackling cashew nuts and the sweet soft pineapple cubes did provide some bite though. It was saved by bird eye chilies that came along with the dish.
Tub Tim Krob (70 Baht)
Unfortunately, we can’t try their mango sticky rice. Hence, we opted for Tub Tim Krob. Refreshing would the best description for this dessert but it was okay. Nothing fancy about it. Crunchy texture of water chestnut with gooey chewy texture of tapioca made it fun to munch. The coconut-based broth was chilled and lightly sweet which we slurped till the last drop.
Overall, the meal was average. The bill came to about 1750 Baht. As expected, it’s a little pricey but we were prepared for it. But the fact that there were more misses than hits didn’t help much either. The Tom Yum Goong and the tiger prawns were good but that can’t be said for rest of the dishes. However, if you look at it from another point of view, the view from the restaurant was beautiful – especially during the sun sets and the environment of the restaurant was relaxing. They do provide free pick up (and return trip) service if your hotel is near to them (*need further verification). It is best to make reservations prior to your visit and do arrive early if you want to view the sunset.
Address :
89 Moo3, Ao Nang,
Muang,
81000 Krabi,
Thailand.
GPS Coordinates : 8.03775, 98.820798
Phone Number : +66(0) 75 661 588
Mobile Number : +66(0) 84 8490 001
