“The art of love . . . is largely the art of persistence” – Albert Ellis
The love for authentic Thai cuisine and the persistence of offering the best and most innovative dishes has blossomed into Vancouver’s elite Thai restaurant. Last June 2nd marked the One Year Anniversary of Thai sensation, Maenam, which blends simplicity, innovation and balance, which is based on the philosophy of its owner and chef, Angus An. The cuisine at Maenam, which means ‘river’ or ‘mother water’, is a fusion of authentic Thai cuisine with the intense fresh local flavours and was inspired by Chef David Thompson of the world-renowned Thai restaurant, Nahm, in London.
Under the watchful eyes of Chef Angus together with his wife and business partner, Kate, Maenam offers traditional, centuries-old dishes fit for the royalty of Thailand infused with locally-sourced ingredients giving it an intense fusion of flavours.
Much of the menu is inspired by the annual trips of the couple to Thailand where they would roam the streets to uncover new dishes that would serve as inspirations for their innovative cuisine. The restaurant brings a top-notch Thai dining experience into Vancouver’s local restaurant scene.
The event had free flowing bubbles and cocktails along with some appetizing bites courtesy of Chef Angus. Bar manager, Alicia Grunert, was on hand to serve the ‘Green Eyed Love’, which was a vodka cocktail with Thai basil, freshly squeezed lime juice, lychee and a heavy rinse of Absinthe. The drink was named after the favourite song of Alicia.
Gracing the occasion were John-Paul Lamb of the Glowbal restaurant Group, Nadine Mcdowell, Ben Schach, renowned food writer James McRobbie and CBC food columnist Jaeny Balk.
Aside from the food, Maenam also offers a stimulating array of wines from the Rhein and Mosel river valleys of Germany. The Reisling wine collection of the restaurant is focused on the lighter reds aside from having a good range of aromatic whites,which would complement Maenam’s excellent cuisine. Under the guidance of General Manager and Sommelier, Tara Thom, the wine list has evolved into a collection worthy of praise and envy from any bona-fide oenophile.
Maenam was designed by Vancouver based Scott Cohen in collaboration with artist Ken Lum and Chef Angus. With a minimalistic interior decorated with Thai artifacts, Maenam is definitely a modern, casual and comfortable setting to enjoy a world-class Thai dining experience.
Maenam is located along West 4th Avenue, Vancouver, BC and is open seven days a week.
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