S.P. Publishing Group Co., Ltd. 11/1 Soi 3 Bamrungburi Rd., T. Prasingh, A. Muang., Chiang Mai 50200 Tel. 053 - 814 455-6 Fax. 053 - 814 457 E-mail: guidelin@loxinfo.co.th

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Gourmet Visits DALAABAA

If ever I have had the opportunity to enjoy a gourmet's delight it was upon my visit to the Dalaabaa Bar and Restaurant in Bumroongraj Road.

Everything about the place purveys a feeling of class and quality and one instantly realises that the food will be of the same standard. And it was. But firstly let me mention the entrance. The restaurant is set well back from the road, which gives plenty of parking space plus the advantage of reduced traffic noise. Also, there is a large pond one can negotiate by walking over stepping-stones if one desires, which is a very nice touch, although it may not always be recommended on the way out.

I had long puzzled over the name 'Dalaabaa' until the owner, Khun Jimm informed me it was the name of a Chiang Mai flower, although neither she nor photographer Toey could remember the English word for it, so I am none the wiser.

The restaurant opens at six o'clock and you can choose to dine in the air-conditioned lounge or al fresco if that is your wish. As I have already said, the place is immaculate and every arrangement and decor tastefully set out, including the glassware in which drinks are served. Speaking of drinks, you may sit at either the outside or inside bars and if cocktails are your choice then they offer such specialties as Pink Dalaabaa, Margarita, Thai Sunrise, and many more. For those who enjoy a wine with their meal there is a large selection available. Personally I like a beer with my meal and was served an ice-cold Heineken in a tall, elegant glass.

The menu was the delight I have previously mentioned with a variety of items rarely if ever seen. For example red tilapia served with chilli sauce and fruit and deep fried fish with fruit, were two dishes I had not seen before.

However, the one that really caught my eye was the Dalaabite shrimp rolled in smoked salmon. It was beautifully presented and tasted even better. I must confess to having a genuine fondness for salmon and this dish did not let me down. I doubt if I have devoured any dish with the enthusiasm I did this one.

As a photographer, Toey - my accomplice for the evening - proved himself a very good trencherman. I had ordered a little more than I usually would. Among the supernumery items were deep fried crab in spring rolls, beef curry in fresh chili (this was especially good with just the right amount of spice), and spicy stir-fried green peas with crispy fish.

I leave you to imagine just how delicious these were, as I do not have enough wo

Throughout my visit there was some very pleasant background music that was not at all intrusive but simply added to the genuine atmosphere.

All in all it was one of those very special evenings that make this tough job easier to bear, and I recommend Dalaabaa to one and all.

Graeme Monaghan