THERE’S nothing more comforting than Thai cuisine, so when the opportunity arose to try the newly opened Long Chim, I jumped at it.
Located in the heart of Soho on Rupert Street – nestled between buzzing bars and lively shops – the restaurant lures me in with neon-lit signs reminiscent of Bangkok’s bustling street markets, accented by striking animal murals and gold details.
Opened by David Thompson, the mastermind behind Kiln and Smoking Goat, two beloved Thai hotspots in London, Long Chim (which translates to come and try) offers a short yet thoughtfully curated menu designed for sharing.
Long Chim
We start with cocktails, each infused with a fruity or tropical twist. The drinks menu is heavy with, of course, Thai-inspired flavours featuring lemongrass, lime, coconut merging a variety of tastes into unexpected creations. I opt for Basil Smash, which blends gin, Thai basil and citrus achieving a refreshing and crisp mix.
Long Chim
For starters, we go for Long Chim’s take on spring rolls, which arrive crispier and crunchier than expected, adding a delightful contrast to the warm filling inside. The grilled squid, prepared southern-style with pickled ginger, is meaty, tender, and full of flavour. While the portions initially seem modest, they are deceivingly filling, especially when I think about the more substantial mains, which will inevitably follow.
Long Chim
The main course selection is more extensive, featuring lighter options like pomegranate salad with mint and shallots or chicken and coconut soup with mushrooms. We choose a selection of seafood dishes to share.
First, an aromatic grilled kingfish, bathed in curry sauce with green mango and a surprisingly fiery chili sauce – perfect for those who can handle a little bit more heat – accompanied by delicate jasmine rice and sugar snap peas, which bring freshness to the whole combination. Then, a steaming pot of black tiger prawns, baked with vermicelli noodles, spring onions, and celery, delivering a burst of flavour in every bite.
Long Chim
The dessert offering is short and sweet with grilled sticky rice served with banana instead of the classic mango and tapioca with coconut topped with bright and yellow corn. The light yet satisfying options allow those with a sweet tooth to indulge post-dinner without feeling overwhelmed.
Striking a balance between bold Thai flavours and laid-back atmosphere, Long Chim is the ideal spot on London’s food scene inviting guests to discover new twists of the classic flavours.
by Olga Petrusewicz
36-40 Rupert St, London W1D 6DW
To book visit here: here