Review

Birdies occupies the upper floors of a petite shophouse overlooking Phrom Pong BTS. The dining space is cosy, but owners Ratish Sachathamakul and chef Jennifer Evans, have made the most of the shape in creating a comfortable fun ambience. Chef Jennifer’s story began in Australia, where she appeared on the popular television program, My Kitchen Rules, before opening Birdies towards the end of 2023, tantalising diners with fancy fried chicken. Innovative cocktail twists on the classics, beers, both draft and bottle, showcase intriguing examples from Saigon, Vientiane, Phnom Penh, and Phuket, and a comprehensive wine list are available. Daily specials such as duck empanadas and prawns with garlic and chili are flavour-packed alternatives to the a la carte. Small plates are a great start; house specials of Burrata with sesame, chili crisp, and hotteok pack a punch, and chicken wings stuffed with duck chorizo and tomatillo are recommended. However, most guests come here for the fried chicken. Begin with tenders, legs, or wings with flavours of hot honey or spicy and exotically named sauces of Alabama white, comeback, ranch or Carolina gold. There is an add-on of Kaviari caviar, should you wish to elevate your humble chicken. Desserts continue the mood: either sticky date pudding with poached pear and butterscotch or a chocolate cake with custard and crème fraiche.