Review

Monkey Pod is an experience that can't be placed in any box. Colourfully jungle-themed, with a focus on monkeys, you are welcomed by wall murals of cartoon drawings of apes and then an enchanting outdoor dining terrace surrounded by greenery beneath overhead fairy lights. The elegant garden tables are candlelit, the music is upbeat, and the large bar emanates consistent rattling of shakers.

If starting with a round of drinks, try a signature tropical cocktail to get you into the jungle-y ambiance: forbidden fruit is a summery blend of rum, triple sec, and many fruits. Moving on to the international, but Asian-inspired menu, begin by snacking on some Lao dogs, an Asian rendition of the hot dog using mantou bao buns and sai krua sausages. Something new and exotic to start a conversation. Mains come mostly in large sharing sizes, juicy and tangy chili chicken is a definite crowd-pleaser, as are blasting tiger prawns that come with a kick of chimichurri sauce. Desserts are from around the world, but you won't regret ordering the light and satisfying burnt Basque cheesecake.

You can make a Monkey Pod dining experience, whatever you want it to be. Dining here, you'll find romantic couples on a date, family dinners, and rather loud groups of friends on a catch-up.