Pacific Rim Thai

It was no surprise to me when I heard our neighbouring table comment "no need to see the menu" as we sat down to eat at this Albert Park institution.  Situated on the corner of Ferrars and Vic Ave for as long as I can remember, there is a reason why the locals keep coming back to Pacific Rim Thai - and no, it's not just because the food is fresh and full of flavour - Pacific Rim Thai is proof that you don't have to go to a fine dining restaurant to get top quality service.  Not only were the staff incredibly friendly and attentive, they made sure our water carafe was never empty and asked questions such as "are you ready for your mains, or would you like to wait a while?".

Offering all the usual Thai culprits, on this occasion we couldn't go past the vegetable curry puffs, the roti with peanut sauce, the Pad Se Ewe and the Penang Beef Curry.  The thing that really sets Pacific Rim Thai apart from the rest is the freshness of their food and the inclusion of vegetables.  For instance, the vegetable curry puffs were filled with actual chunks of real vegetables (not a blended paste like you get at some places), and the Penang Beef Curry, which is usually served up with a token potato or carrot, was stuffed full of grilled vegetables including capsicum and zucchini - delicious!

Pacific Rim Thai's roti bread is also some of the best going around - crisp and buttery, it is served with a very generous portion of peanut sauce.

Offering a byo policy, Pacific Rim Thai is definitely my recommendation for Thai restaurants if you're in the Albert Park/Middle Park area.

Food: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Venue: 3/5
Total: 11/15
Verdict: Love - get around to trying it soon