I know Kilburn is not the most salubrious place in London and neither is it know as a culinary hot spot, but I had heard about Spicy Basil and had a lunchtime Thai food itch to scratch. So I decided to wander down from the yummy mummies and delicatessens in Queen’s Park to Kilburn High Street.
Spicy Basil matches its surroundings being basic with the distinct look of converted fish and chip shop, the hand written sign on the door saying ‘cash only‘ did make me wonder if there was a car with the engine running round the back. Inside it was busy and bustling with people waiting to sit and happy waiting staff rushing about. The waiters sit you down wherever possible, so you could find yourself sharing a table with strangers. We were sat at the end of a table which was comfortable enough.
The smell of the food hits you the second you walk in and this is a good thing. It really reminded me of those little basic cafes in Thailand were it doesn’t look like much but the food is always a treat. I was getting a bit of menu envy looking around at other peoples plates so it took me a while to pick the beef stir fried with garlic, chilli and basil. The fact my partner ordered a veggie red curry helped me with my choice as I really wanted to try their curry sauce.
We also ordered some veggie spring rolls and I asked for chicken satay. Unfortunately although it’s on the menu we were told the satay is only available in the evenings and not at lunch. I was a bit miffed at this as it’s a dish they are well known for.
The obviously homemade spring rolls had an authentic flavour and with a touch of the chilli oil (placed randomly across the tables) they were wonderfully tasty and got my mouth watering for the main course.
My partner’s veggie red curry turned up first and she gave a nod of approval as she tasted her first mouthful, I quickly popped my spoon into the bowl and took a taste. Just wow. The rich sauce had a beautiful balance of flavours and a good hit of heat just like you get in those Thai places I mentioned earlier. For me there is nothing worse than getting Thai food that wimps out on the chilli, I mean if it doesn’t get your nose running by the end of the bowl something really isn’t right.
The beef stir fried arrived and I tucked in. The perfectly cooked steaming hot chunks of beef were nestled in amongst plenty of veggies including carrot, aubergine (egg plant) and mushroom. As I work my way through I got bursts of holy basil in some mouthfuls, but the chilli was definitely there. It was a builder too, getting hotter as I ate but never becoming overbearing or taking over the other flavours…perfect.
You get a generous portion of plain steamed rice with every meal too, which made for a delicious and bargainous lunch. Our mains were just £5 each, that’s right a fiver.
Spicy Basil may not be flash, pretentious with stunning surroundings. They don’t even offer delicate and elegant presentation. But what they do give you is authentic, tasty real Thai food in a friendly, buzzy atmosphere. Oh yes remember it’s amazing value too.
Kilburn might not be your first port of call when looking for restaurants, but if you’re a Thai food fan maybe it’s time for you to think again.
Please share your experience in the comments below if you have been to Spicy Basil or share this review with your Thai food loving friends!
Spicy Basil 165 Kilburn High Rd London NW6 7HY Tel: 020 7328 6646
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