Kokova Magazine

The opening of the latest Giggling Squid restaurant brings sensational Thai cuisine to the High Street in Reigate - and not a moment before time.

If any town is ready for a change of food direction then Reigate, with its limited choice and dated menus, is the place to welcome this revelation in dining out.

With everything being cooked from scratch, using (wherever practical) locally sourced ingredients, the Thai chefs create an array of dishes that challenge your taste-buds in the most desirable manner.

YST went along to the pre-opening night to see how this restaurant had physically metamorphosed since the discover of their underground 'cavern' in May and sample some of the sensational dishes on offer.

Since the discovery the lower floor has been completely remodelled, incorporating a viewing window so that diners can see the extent of the cavern below the buildings for themselves.

The original plan to situate the kitchen on the lower floor had to be revised and the area now offers additional dining, with an unusual view.

With secluded lower rooms, upper floors and external patio space, the latest addition to the Giggling Squid chain is a modern day Tardis. The exterior belies the depth of space and the separation of the many dining areas creates an intimate dining experience without seclusion.

For starters, we sampled the Salt and Pepper Squid and Pork Dumplings.

Lightly floured coated squid is deep fried until it fluffs up, with the moreish flavour coming from a scattering of salt, ground black pepper, spring onion and finely sliced chilli.

Squid is a personal favourite - when it is cooked well. Problems with the preparation can turn a good dish into a disaster but we are very happy to report that not only is this Salt and Pepper Squid as delicious as it sounds, it is highly recommended as a 'must try'.

The Pork Dumplings were served on a work of art, with finely crafted 'flowers' and delicately arranged vegetables. The savoury steamed dumpling are served with a light soy and rice vinegar dip.

The Chicken Thai Green Curry main to follow was served in a cast iron pot that housed enough curry to share, even though it was intended for one. The accompanying coconut rice was divine and would have made an excellent stand alone dessert dish, due to its sweet flavour, but coupled with the green curry it dissipated any after-heat, complimenting the flavour combination.

Jasmine rice was served with the other main dish of Sleeping Honey Duck with Orange Salad. Delivered to the table on a hot sizzling plate, the duck breast is served with a special honey glaze sauce, on a bed of shredded savoy cabbage and garnished with cashew nut and crispy fried shallot - with an orange salad side dish.

If you like duck you will love it Giggling Squid style! We can only urge you to book a table and discover this, and the many other fantastic dishes on of the menu, for yourselves. With generous servings and excellent service we could not find fault.

To view the available menus and indulge in the some of the best Thai cuisine this area has to offer visit www.gigglingsquid.com

Reigate is ready for a new dining experience - and the authentic, rustic and fresh Thai cooking for which the Giggling Squid is growing in reputation is a welcome change.

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