Saeng Thian Thai

Ph: (03) 9579 5311; 713 Centre Rd, Bentleigh East 3165

Thai, $$ -
Open 7 days Dinner: from 6pm, takeaway from 5.30pm; Unlicensed, BYO; AE, BC, DC, MC, V, Seats inside 85

Mietta's Review
The candlelight that the name Saeng Thian translates to is a beacon in this stretch of suburban Bentleigh. The restaurant, which has been serving consistently good, wholesome food since 1992, is still doing a roaring trade. Bookings are advisable, especially on Saturday nights. Take your pick of dining Thai-style on cushioned platforms or conventional table and chairs, fussed over by waitresses in Thai costume. The tort mun pla, deep-fried fish patties blended with a curry paste, sliced beans and egg, is a palate teaser. The tom yum prawns may not be all that piquant but it is well flavoured with lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. There is more than novelty in presentation to the prawns and vermicelli simmered in a claypot with onions, herbs and a touch of curry sauce. The full flavour of the pandan leaf is captured in the gai bai toey, deep-fried chicken wrapped in the aromatic leaf.