Be In Your Element At Giggling Squid – Thai Dining At Its Finest
Thai food is an easy favourite for many dining out in London’s restaurant scene. It’s no secret that its bold flavours and delicious mix of ingredients have fully won the hearts of the British people. It seems the popularity of this Asian cuisine has even managed to edge out the traditional fish and chips. However, finding the perfect Pad Thai, Spicy Shrimp Soup or Chicken Red Curry to tantalise your taste buds isn’t always easy. We all know that walking away from a restaurant knowing you finished your meal half-heartedly is a bit disappointing. But for South West London locals, there is a restaurant right on their doorstep, that will surely be the answer to all of their Thai food dreams.
Situated on the edge of Kingston, Giggling Squid appears to be a rather small, modest building from the outside, but once taken inside, it is a different story. The interior is fresh and bright, an uplifting contrast to the cold winter weather outside. With fuchsia pink flowers adorning the walls, glorious chandeliers hanging from the ceilings and a colour scheme of white, green and purple, I immediately felt at home here.
Once escorted to my table and sat down on the plush green sofa, I was handed a drinks menu. I was pleasantly surprised with the generous list of cocktails, as I was expecting more of a mandatory selection of wine and beer that I had experienced at other Thai chains. Reluctantly turning down the Giggling Cosmo (£6.95), as I wanted to try something new, I went for the Passion Fruit Bellini (£6.95) which did not disappoint. A sensational mix of Passion fruit, peach and vanilla infused vodka topped with prosecco, the flavours danced perfectly together in my mouth, while the taste of the alcohol was not overpowering. A lovely start to the evening.
For a starter, I couldn’t resist ordering the Prawn Crackers (£3.50). Spicy and moreish, they have always been a favourite. While crunching on these, I poured over the menu to choose a main. Deciding on my main dish at a Thai restaurant was always more of a challenge, as there are simply so many tasty things to choose from. I was tempted by the Cashew Nut Stir Fry (£10.75), as this was a much-loved dish I had often enjoyed when dining with family. Yet it was the Sticky Chicken Stir Fry (£10.95) that won me over, accompanied by a side of Jasmine Rice (£2.95) and Stir Fry Pak Choi & Tenderstems (£4.95) The food came quickly, the main succeeded in being absolutely scrumptious, the chicken and mushrooms were full of flavour and their texture juicy and satisfying. A hint of lemongrass and coriander gently complemented the dish with a light freshness. To finish off, I demolished the Pak Choi and Tenderstems, which cleansed my palate nicely. The Sticky Chicken Stir Fry was a little too plentiful for me, as I usually can’t finish big portions of food. At the end of the evening I happily took home the remainders of my food in a take-away bag, ready to enjoy later.
Overall, The Giggling Squid gives a fabulous dining experience. Owners Andy Laurillard and his wife Pranee have come a long way since the opening of their first restaurant in 2002, with 29 chains now open. Giggling Squid is a great addition to the restaurant scene in several towns and suburbs across the UK. The restaurant is simple and authentic, with a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere, a warm and welcoming service and a menu which offers a delightful choice of traditional, aromatic Thai dishes.