COLOURFUL decorations welcome guests to Mali Thai on Myers Street. Manager S Singsuriyakul believes the style relaxes visitors.
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Mr Singsuriyakul one of six chefs in the kitchen at new Bendigo restaurant Mali Thai.
Mali Thai itself is one of two new Thai restaurants finding to find a home in central Bendigo recently. Kang Thai on Lyttleton Terrace is also due to open in a few months.
Mr Singsuriyakul owned a food business in Bendigo for 17 years, which he later sold.
But as he walked round the city, former customers would ask him when he planned to open a new restaurant.
He missed his customers, and missed his friends. But now lots of people who came to the old restaurant visit Mali Thai.
The lotus flower inspired the restaurant's interior colours, while the name "Mali" means "flower".
People just say, "Wow", when they walk in, Mr Singsuriyakul said.
The interior blends Edwardian style with that of Thai King Rama VI. Mr Singsuriyakul said it was an unusual style, not common in Australian restaurants.
Educated as an architect, Mr Singuriyakul said the interior relaxed people.
Mr Singsuriyakul's brother Tong Sanchai has been certified by the Thai government as a chef. Mr Singsuriyakul said this meant he knew a lot about Thai food.
The restaurant aims to serve original Thai food, within the constraints of Australia.
Kang Thai on Lyttleton Terrace is another Thai restaurant due to open soon. North Ketkaew will work at the restaurant, owned by his mother Somsri Fomboon.
Mr Ketkaew said the restaurant would be open at lunchtime, to catch the lunchtime crowds on Lyttleton Terrace. It will also open for dinner, and maybe breakfast.
Ms Fomboon will cook for the restaurant and Mr Ketkaew, who also studies civil engineering, will work front of house and help in the kitchen.
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