Erawan, two, three… {Guest Post}

Yup, that’s how many times I’ve been back since first sampling this little piece of Thai heaven. If you’re battling to say it out loud, it’s pronounced ‘air-a-one’. Now, you might be thinking that I am producing shining reviews on all restaurants to win favour, and alas, this is another shining review. 


But don’t despair – our search for a suitably horrible restaurant continues, and you, dear reader, shall be the first to hear about it.

Now let’s get to it. A large portion of Erawan’s charm is actually in its location. If you haven’t taken a stroll through Chelsea Village in Wynberg you are missing out. Apparently the area dates back to the first British occupation of the Cape in 1795 and is a concentration of historic Georgian style buildings and residential cottages. Chelsea Village was named an Urban Conservation Area due to its historical architecture and quaint layout. Of course, these days the village is a highly sought after residential location and as a result has attracted trendy shops and studios as well as a cosy pub and a few notable restaurants.

Image from Dining-Out.

The restaurant is heavily decorated, and quite posh for lack of a better word. Don’t be intimidated, the food is well-priced, and the service warm and friendly. The best way to describe the service is to liken to that of Singapore Airlines. If you’ve ever seen the air hostesses on Singapore Airlines you’ll know what I mean. You might be throwing your hands up in confusion, but the waitresses (who, judging from their grasp on the English language, appear to have just arrived in SA) are beautifully presented, and wrapped tightly in traditional attire, and epitomize politeness. Try not shout your order at them, they can hear you! It’s better to indicate your choice on the menu to avoid disappointment when the food arrives!

Whatever you do, DON’T SKIP STARTERS. The dim sum (although not traditionally Thai) is amazing, and don’t let them take the arrival snack dip options from the table, as dipping the dim sum in these just makes it. I chose the Sa La Pao Gai (steamed dumplings with spicy chicken, coriander etc.) and it was a good option.  For mains I have to confess that I have indulged in the same green curry each time I have been – the chicken option. The menu, unlike the wine list, is full of the usual options – stir fries, soup, curries, noodles etc. 

I’m not a foodie, so I won’t go into the turgidity of the green pepper, but Erawan is worth a visit – well priced, great service, easy to locate and parking isn’t an issue. If you are fussy about your wine selection then take a bottle from home.

Peruse their menu here, ring them up on 021 797 5000 or visit them at 15 Wolfe Street, Little Chelsea, Wynberg, Cape Town.

xx Lisa

To follow Lisa on Twitter, click here