Yes — you hadn’t seen that wrongly. Dropped by the fairly new maknomnom at International Plaza; didn’t really have any idea on what I wanted to have for lunch within the building but really got enticed by the selection of food that they have. Quite surprised that they actually serve Thai cuisine in the same style that mixed vegetable rice stalls would — the selection of food available for the day is displayed in trays behind the counter; one can just simply opt for white rice, or fried rice or fried noodles and just point at the dishes for the folks behind the counter to pick up what they fancy. The selection of dishes are almost akin to those that are typically served at Thai eateries — think items such as Thai Basil Minced Pork, Thai Green Curry, Moo Ping etc., as well as different sorts of stir-fried vegetables as well. For those whom are ant to avoid making decisions on what to order for their meal, there are also a choice of ala-carte dishes that one can order at maknomnom — think items such as Tom Yam Fried Rice, Phad Thai and even a Crispy Prawn Omelette with Rice. Surprisingly, they also do serve up snacks and desserts in the tiny space that they occupy — available on display includes the Nonya Kueh and Luk Chup, whilst the menu also lists a Mango Sticky Rice and the Tako as well. Beverages include mineral water, Iced Lemongrass and Iced Thai Milk Tea — pretty standard items one would expect out of a Thai eatery.

There were plenty of dishes that we found pretty enticing but we found ourselves going for the Thai Basil Minced Pork, Thai Green Curry and Moo Ping. The total bill does seem a little hefty at $9.00 if one were to compare it to a typical plate of mixed vegetable rice, but it does seem rather fair considering the amount of meat items we have ordered and how this does come with a Thai element. We really liked how the different elements are done here — no doubt the Moo Ping could have been more juicy and tender at other establishments, but we did like how it carried a good bite and a bit of smoky char amidst the savoury-sweet glazing over the meat. The green curry is especially creamy and hints of a nice fragrance; nothing too thick and jelak — a great addition for those looking for a “gravy” to drench the rice with. Only qualm with the green curry though was how the eggplants cold have been cooked to an even softer texture — that would have brought it to a higher level. If anything, the Thai Basil Minced Pork was pretty delicious; just enough fish sauce for that savoury note without being overly wet; hints of a light note of basil that is pretty refreshing even though it does seem to be just a wee bit spicy for those who are not too tolerable to spiciness in general. Overall, a pretty decent plate without being too unnecessarily expensive.

Sure, there are some things which we felt that maknomnom could have done better in terms of their offerings; that being said, we do feel that they do hit that spot for those who are looking for a more-than-decent Thai eatery to lunch at in the Central Business District. It does certainly carry some sort of quality — one that exceeds our initial expectations of what seems to be a simple establishment. Would really like to return to maknomnom to check out the other items that they have some other time!