The inner city suburb of Newtown is a delightful mix of funky, ethnic and vintage with a splash of over-priced, new and popular thrown in to create one of the most interesting places to visit near the Sydney CBD. One thing it has always been known for is its bustling restaurant and cafe scene. Competition dictates that if a restaurant is going to survive in Newtown then it needs to be good and it needs to offer good value. Doytao has not only been surviving but thriving.
For 15 years Doytao has been serving Thai food to Sydneysiders from its King Street, Newtown location. Starting out in a small pokey shop, before buying the furniture store next door and extending, the food continues to be great, served with a friendly smile. It is noisy, hot and not the place for a romantic dinner for two but for a casual meal with friends or an inexpensive lunch, it is perfect.
Over the last few years, family members have also opened other Doytaos around Sydney and there are now restaurants bearing their name in Drummoyne, Croydon, Padstow, Glebe, Sutherland, Waterloo and Boronia Park in addition to the original at Newtown. Each location offers its own unique atmosphere and décor, but with the same authentic Thai recipes and warm welcome.
My personal favourites are the Pad See Eew (fresh rice noodles stir fried with your choice of chicken, pork, beef, or lamb) and the delicious whole boneless Volcanic Chicken with its fragrant sticky honey and brandy sauce.
The kitchen is happy to adjust dishes to suit special needs or for children. My kids love the satay chicken and the banana splits when they are in season. The prices are slightly better value for lunch but dinner is still a good buy and very family friendly. All the
restaurants are open 7 nights for dinner but not all offer a 7 day lunch sitting, so make sure you check the details beforehand.
What not give one of the restaurants a go? I am sure you won't be disappointed.
