This absolutely stellar Thai palace at the north end of Gongti Xilu serves delicious Thai and Malaysian fare at reasonable prices. Don't miss out on the crab curry. Laburnum also serves Guinness on tap and is open late nights for clubbers wrapping up their nights.

4.5/5 Stars

A miniature Thai palace at the north end of the Gongti club strip, Laburnum has a solid recipe for success. Its late night hours and quality bar service are sure to make this newcomer a hit among capital clubbers, but the menu of sublime Thai entrées makes Laburnum a destination in its own right. The soft music and Thai spa ambience makes Laburnum a relaxing environment in which to slowly savor each course. The stand-out dish during our visit was the stir-fried hard-shell crab with curry (¥89). Smothered in a creamy coconut curry, the crab is served with its shell cracked for easy access to the soft meat inside. Its ¥89 price tag is emblematic of the bargains that will bring us back. With several skewers of mouthwatering shrimp, chicken, eel and fish, the Thai-style kebab with satay plate (¥49) is another hit. Laburnum’s service is attentive and polite, and we were impressed that they provided fapiao during opening week. The thick, pumpkin-orange milk tea (¥19) is a sweet and delicious accompaniment to Laburnum’s outstanding Thai treats. For those looking for something with more kick, Laburnum also serves cocktails, wines and foreign beers, including Guinness on tap (¥55).

Blake Stone-Banks

Please note that prices, service and quality may have changed considerably in the month or two following this review. See reader reviews below for reference.