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Manila Bulletin devider Property and Living devider High on Thai

High on Thai

A modern restaurant design for Nara Thai's second branch

Published Jun 16, 2023 09:35 pm
It has been five years since Nara Thai Cuisine opened its first branch in the Philippines at SM Megamall, where it serves authentic Thai dishes made with the highest quality ingredients. Not only is this global restaurant chain part of the “Recommended” selection in the Michelin Guide, but it has also been voted as Bangkok’s Best Restaurant for many years. In fact, the first branch even received a Thai Select seal from the Royal Thai embassy in 2018. “The award, from the Ministry of Commerce in Thailand, recognizes restaurants overseas that meet the strict criteria of quality and authenticity in serving Thai cuisine. Moreover, I would like to share that the brand Nara Thai has been included in the Michelin Guide Bangkok since 2019. We have received the Michelin Plate for premium Thai Restaurants in Thailand,” said Sheila Romero, Roku Group Inc. chief executive officer. Roku Group Inc. Chief Executive Officer Sheila Romero
The Philippine franchise team had patiently awaited the opportunity to open their next branches, and it finally came when they were informed of an available spot at Molito Lifestyle Center in Alabang. “We chose Molito as our second branch because we noticed that many of our guests at SM Megamall are from the South. They have been requesting us to open a branch in the South,” said Charisse Amisola, Roku Group Inc. chief operating officer. Roku Group Inc. Chief Operating Officer Charisse Amisola
However, opening in Alabang was not easy. Amisola revealed that the team went through a lengthy approval process. “We made several presentations to our principal in Bangkok. We needed to convince them that there is a market for Thai food in the South, especially in Molito Lifestyle Center. We also needed to consult with them and get approvals for the aesthetic look of the store, as it differs from other Nara Thai Cuisines due to its modern look.” The local team commissioned Architect Jay Calma and Trisha Calma of Jose Calma Development Corp. to design and build this second branch. The company utilized materials that provided an overall linear look to the new space. The restaurant features cool neutrals, such as stone gray tiles and wooden table tops, accentuated with muted purple cushion seats. Violet dendrobium Thai orchids also serve as focal points in the area. “It is a marriage of the royal Thai heritage and modernity, evident in the color and materials used, as well as the overall linear look of the space,” added Romero. The light-filled interiors, with its floor-to-ceiling glass panels, create an inviting dining area. Light-drenched interiors make it inviting for Nara Thai customers to dine.
The restaurant, spanning 260 sq.m., can accommodate 100 guests, with an elevated floor area offering a more private area for a maximum of 50 guests. “We listen to our guests. Most of them celebrate important events in our restaurant, and they always request a private area. In Molito, we feel that the mezzanine area will not only provide the privacy they desire, but also allow us the flexibility to cater to their specific requirements, such as decorations and buffet tables,” said Amisola. Corporate Head Chef Macoy Ortega also gives guests more reason to visit with a special cocktail menu that includes Rum Thai Tea, Lemongrass Gin & Tonic, and Tropical Mojito. Have your semi-private functions at the mezzanine area.
“The founder of Nara, Yuki Sri-karnchana, announced that the Philippine franchise passed with flying colors as the territory that follows the original authentic Nara taste. Indeed, it is fulfilling to know that we have consistently provided our customers with an authentic Thai dining experience. But having our hard work recognized is truly encouraging and inspiring,” said Romero. Minimalist interiors keep it sleek with gray tiles and gold accents.
Amisola added, “We are very proud of the quality and authenticity of the food we offer. Even our counterparts in Bangkok are pleased with the way we operate our restaurants. Our Thai corporate chef even said that among all their franchisees all over the world, our store is one of the best in terms of taste and food quality.” Expect more from the Philippine franchise as it plans to open a third branch in Bonifacio Global City this year. *For more information, follow them on Facebook @narathaiph*

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