Where is it?
Nestled upstairs at The Globe Tavern, just under the lively railway arches of London’s Borough Market, Khao Bird offers an escape into Northern Thai flavors right in the heart of the city.
What’s the buzz about?
Born from the success of Lucky Khao in Brighton, this permanent residency by Mike Palmer celebrates the vibrant energy of Northern Thailand’s night markets. The menu is a playful take on traditional Thai street food, blending authentic flavors with creative twists using sustainable British ingredients.
The Atmosphere
With its neon-pink glow and cozy, bustling ambiance, the space feels like a slice of Chiang Mai. You can peek into the dynamic kitchen led by head chef Luke Larsson while soaking in the friendly and knowledgeable service. The staff are happy to guide you through spice levels and unfamiliar menu items, making the experience approachable yet adventurous.
What we tried
Drinks:
The boozy slushies are irresistible! The lemongrass and lychee margarita is a sweet-sour treat, while the pina ‘khao’lada reimagines the classic pineapple rum cocktail with a Thai basil twist.Starters:
The triple-cooked chips are a standout. Perfectly crisp, they come loaded with tender braised mutton curry, a dollop of soured cream, and crispy fried curry leaves – pure indulgence.
The pla, a poached white fish salad infused with lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime, offers light, aromatic flavors and comes with potato crisps for scooping.Main courses:
The khao soi, a signature dish of Chiang Mai, delivers a comforting bowl of rich, curried coconut broth over homemade egg noodles, topped with chargrilled chicken.
For spice lovers, the caramelized pork tomahawk is unforgettable. Served with a bold nahm jim dipping sauce, it’s tender, flavorful, and irresistibly fiery.
Our Verdict
Khao Bird’s menu offers bold, inventive flavors that transport you straight to the streets of Thailand. It’s a deliciously down-to-earth experience with dishes that are as comforting as they are creative.
Lasting Impression
The grown-up slushies and the indulgent mutton-loaded fries are unforgettable highlights of a meal filled with surprises.