A Royal Affair

As far as anniversaries go, few are as special as reaching that initial one-year milestone. And in the restaurant world, celebrating such an occasion signifies success — showing that customers have taken notice and like what they see and, in this case, taste.

Embarking on its second year, Royal Thai Garden restaurant is excited about continuing to expand. Owner Irma Sayavong initially began her foray into the culinary world by opening a dining locale in Waikele Shopping Center. Named Quick Thai, the self-described “kiosk” offers customers authentic Thai eats for those on the go and looking for superb takeout. Irma’s daughter Joanna Sayavong, who serves as manager of Royal Thai Garden, explains that “Quick Thai became so popular, we decided to open an eat-in location as well, figuring that people would also like a place to come in and eat a nice, sit-down meal.”

And they were absolutely right, as since its opening in Ewa Point Marketplace in July 2014, Royal Thai Garden has continued to flourish. According to Joanna, “Most of our customers are regulars, and since we are located in a mostly residential area, we are really focusing on getting the word out to the general public also that we are here.”

So what exactly can diners expect upon a visit to Royal Thai Garden? Joanna explains it best, painting a picture of “authentic Thai food, prepared by our Thai chef (Somboun Sengbounouvong), who has more than 35 years of experience.” In fact, says Joanna, every recipe on the eatery menu is an original creation stemming straight from the mastermind herself.

For a steaming bowl of comfort, Sengbounouvong has concocted a famous Thailand signature creation just for you. Lemongrass Soup with Shrimp ($11.99), or Tom Yum, presents a gargantuan tureen containing a colorful array of mushroom, tomato, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal (similar to ginger) and lime juice. As aromatic as it is delicious, the selection may be ordered mild, medium or hot, and is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal on a sunny summer day.

Another good choice is Sa-Tay Chicken ($9.99), which showcases a generous serving of four Thai-style barbecue chicken skewers grilled golden and garnished with a side of satay dipping sauce and raw, julienned veggies.

Catering to all who prefer seafood, Royal Thai Garden’s Fried Calamari ($11.99), or Pla Muk Tod, and Fried Shrimp Roll ($11.99) are both excellent deep-fried selections. Each served with sweet-and-sour dipping sauce and fresh tomato, cucumber and lettuce, whichever one you choose will surely satisfy that craving for crunch. And if you order the shrimp, it comes with a tropical twist of pineapple.

Royal Thai Garden

Ewa Point Marketplace
91-1001 Kaimalie St., Ewa Beach
689-5105
Monday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.