WINE ME DINE ME

Jaw-straining burgers await you at Papa’s Kitchen Metro in Siam Center.

PAPA’S KITCHEN METRO 2ND FLOOR, SIAM CENTER 10am-9.30pm fb.com/PapasKitchenMetro 02-318-6831

THE SETTING

Papa’s Kitchen has a number of restos scattered around Bangkok. Their first store at Phattanakan is still going strong and they’ve got another in Bang Kapi. Their latest one, however, is a little different from the rest.

Dubbed Papa’s Kitchen Metro, it is at Siam Center and offers a smaller selection on the menu than its bigger counterparts. And though its space is also relatively small, the aesthetics is still on point much like the other two locations. The mural on the wall has a lot of British references like the face of the legendary John Lennon looking somberly at you as you feast on your burgers, as well as Charlie Chaplin looking like he’s about to bust into one of his comedic routines. The “metro” theme is definitely there what with the grey walls and the posters painted on what looks like those metal roll-down shutters that shops have. Rest assured, you’ll be dining in a pretty hip fashion but while that’s cool and all, we’re also here for the food.

THE MENU

Papa’s Kitchen prides itself in offering customers the same quality all over its locations and that remains true with Papa’s Kitchen Metro. The menu is smaller than other locations and for good reason: the resto is in a mall where people usually just come, eat and go, and with the relatively small space, they need a quick turnover. However, this doesn’t mean Papa’s Kitchen Metro doesn’t have a variety of delicacies to offer nor does it mean that you’re going to have to be pushing elbows when eating here.

I started off easy with the Nachos (B249++), which was riddled generously — and I mean generously — with chili beef topped with some fresh guac. It’s a ridiculously addictive appetiser that’s a great way to kick off the feast. Moving on to something a little heavier, I tried their Macaroni cheese with bacon (B229++). If you love mac and cheese (and if you don’t, get out of here) or if you’re just a fan of cheese, you don’t want to miss this dish. Of course, it wouldn’t be mac and cheese without a smattering of crispy bacon on top, for that contrasting texture.

I tried a couple of Papa’s signature dishes: their burgers. If you still want to continue on your cheese streak, look no further than The Big Cheese (B279++), complete with a succulent, juicy beef patty and two kinds of cheeses (my mouth is watering just thinking and writing about it). If you’re feeling lucky and want to take on something a little more challenging then go for their classics: the aptly named Chuck Norris (B499++). Generously stacked, this monstrosity (and I say in the most admirable way) has two thick beef patties, American cheddar cheese, crispy bacon and one big onion ring for a little extra crunch. For a classic diner experience, I suggest you pair this with one of their milkshakes, like the Snickers (B139++) milkshake, which tastes ex

actly like a Snickers bar yet has none of the actual candy in it.

Last but certainly not the least, there’s the BBQ pork spare ribs (B399++). Lathered with their house-made BBQ sauce, it’s served with a classic side of coleslaw, corn and a ridiculously creamy and buttery mashed potato. The ribs are just the right amount of sweet and falls off the bone as you eat it with your hands. Sure, you can use cutlery but where’s the fun in that?

INSIDER’S TIP

Aside from their absolutely addictive milkshakes, they’ve also got a number of cocktails and craft beer. They also deliver via Line Man if you can’t make the trip to Siam Center. They’ve always got new specials every month so be sure to check their FB page regularly. Plus, if you’re a student, you can get a student card for discounts.

VALUE & VERDICT

Papa’s Kitchen has always been known for its good food and service but its locations were always a little too far away unless, of course, you live in the area. With Papa’s Kitchen Metro, I’m glad they’re finally in the heart of Bangkok where I can easily pay them a visit whenever I get a hankering for some good, juicy burgers or fish and chips. Bottom line? I welcome Papa’s Kitchen Metro with open arms and a ready tummy.