This is Zaap Thai – the colourful new addition to York’s international dining scene.
Soon to open at at 7 Lendal, foodies can expect Thai-inspired graffiti, funky tuk tuks, neon lighting, hanging motorbikes and “an electric atmosphere that pays homage to the iconic capital city”, its owners say.
The new restaurant – in the former home of Gourmet Burger Kitchen – will be the fourth branch to open, after Leeds, Nottingham and Newcastle.
No definite opening date has been set. The space is now being transformed into something inspired by the bustling markets of Bangkok.
Owner and chef Ban Kaewkraikhot moved to the UK from Thailand 20 years ago, and has been sharing her country’s unique flavours with appreciative Brits ever since.
Food and drink
With more than 80 dishes to choose from you can take a gamble on something more exotic, such as the Pla Tod Gratium Deep Fried Whole Sea Bass or the vegetarian Som Tum Thai Spicy Papaya Salad with peanuts.
The midweek lunch menu offers two courses for £10, or three for £12.95 and runs between Monday and Friday from 11am – 6pm.
On Curry Monday and Pad Thai Tuesday you can grab the title dish and a beer for £10 all day.
Those beers range from Singha to Tsingtao.
Authentic bubble teas are also on the drinks menu, alongside a collection of Asian cocktail creations.
Zaap have also launched a menu of non-alcoholic summer drinks, including smoothies.
Thirty jobs
Owner Ban said:
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We have been searching for a suitable spot to bring Zaap to York for two years now, and I believe we’ve found the perfect home at 7 Lendal.
Twenty years ago, I could never have imagined just where my dreams would take me, but it turns out that the UK has welcomed Thai food with open arms.
We cannot wait to introduce Zaap to the people of York and look forward to inviting them in for an authentic taste of Thailand, where street food is not just a meal, but a way of life.