Experience Authentic Thai Cuisine: Dining at Giggling Squid in Chelmsford

We were greeted with warm smiles upon entering the Thai restaurant located in the heart of the city. They led us to our cosy cabins decorated with bright, faux flowers that created a cheerful ambiance. Soft, music played in the background, perfectly complementing the laidback vibe.

After settling into our seats, the waiter offered us the drink menu first. We opted for Thai beer and coke to start. The beer tasted slightly sweet yet refreshing, while the Coke tasted just as expected. Shortly after, the food menu arrived, separated helpfully into sections for appetizers, main entrees, and desserts.

We decided to skip the apps and go straight for the main course. The menu consisted an array of authentic Thai dishes, making it difficult to choose. We settled on the crab and prawn curry and the slow-cooked jungle curry, paired with two orders of sticky rice.

The curries arrived steaming hot in traditional Thai Baskets, which we wanted to shove into our bags and bring them back with us. The crab curry immediately impressed with its rich, coconutty flavour that lingered on the palate long after each bite. The texture was perfect and the spice level just right. An easy 4/5 stars. The slow cooked jungle curry also delighted with its complex flavours and tender meat. It earns a 4.5/5 star rating. I did felt the vegetables used in the curries are bit under cooked and were crunchy than they were meant to be.

After cleaning our plates, we excitedly welcomed the dessert menu. We chose the roasted sesame seed ice cream and rice ice cream to share. My companion thought the nutty sesame ice cream was a 5/5, and gave the unique rice ice cream a 4/5 for its intriguing taste. However, the ice cream flavours was a bit too strong for my personal preference. Still, it was worth trying something new!

Overall, we had an amazing Thai culinary experience at this cosy restaurant. While seating wasn't the most comfortable, the ambience with the flower nests made for Instagram-worthy photos. The food was phenomenal although slightly expensive. I can't wait to return and try more authentic dishes from their expansive menu!