I’m always on the lookout for good, cheap Thai that’s closer to home than Thaila Thai, so the arrival of Mamanee (324 Smith St, Collingwood) definitely peaked my interest. It’s got a fresh-looking shopfront, and the food is prepared up the front, which is generally a good sign.
A quick glance at the menu, and I could see it ticked another box on price, with most curries and stir fries at $13.50. This is a little pricier than Thaila Thai, but rice comes free with these dishes at Mamanee. Vegetarian dishes are
With the food prepared up the front, I could see the raw ingredients were on display, which gave me further confidence. Everything looked good quality, including the meat. Tick.
I ordered a green chicken curry and a chili basil beef stir fry, and I’m pleased to say that both were great. The curry had a bit of filler vegetable in the form of large chunks of carrot and potato, but was well cooked and there was a bit of fire to the rich green sauce. Likewise, the stir fry was equally good, with the vegetables quite crisp, not having been overcooked or fished out of a freezer as is the case at some Thai restaurants. Tick.
Servings are generous, both the main dishes and the ‘complimentary’ rice. Tick.
Recommended.