The Valhalla Restaurant, Ao Nang

Independant Review

In one way this is a problematic place, as it's difficult to choose your food from all the extremely appetising-looking fare on the extensive and classily-printed menu, and also on the surrepticiously-observed plates of diners on neighbouring tables.

The classy touches aren't restricted to the menu in this upmarket eatery, as the premises' furniture, crockery and cutlery are all of a high quality. The pastel hues which are the predominant colour scheme are used as a subtle backdrop on which to showcase the dramatic viking art lining the walls. If you are a man and are dining with your better half, you are advised not to sit where you can see the beautiful painting of the gorgeously Amazonian warrior goddess Freyja. If you do so, your other half might not appreciate the inevitable attention-wandering which will ensue. Freyja is rather oit of place in this appetising restaurant, as she had odd appetites for a goddess - she once slept with seven dwarves, in order to obtain a pearl nceklace as a reward.

There is a good selection of Thai food on the menu, prepared by the recently-poached head chef from the nearby Sheraton resort. Whilst the Thai food is good, the real attraction for the dedicated gastronome is the Scandinavian fare on the menu, particularly the slow-cooked 'Warrior Stew' and the authentic and delicious 'Finnish Meatballs'.

While the menu is pricey, the portions are generous and the food simply scrumptious. It's not just Scandies who are missing their meatballs who are advised to visit Valhalla. For better-heeled visitors to Ao Nang, this fab restaurant is highly reccommended. The background music mix is a laid-back, eclectic mix of soft tunes with a few more up-beat numbers thrown in, all played at exactly the right volume - loud enough to enhance the atmosphere, but not so loud as to interfere with conversation.

The restaurant is centrally situated. From McDonalds, walk down the hill towards the beach. After 300m you will see Valhalla on your right.

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