Hidden away on the paradise island of Koh Phi Phi lies the glorious Unni’s restaurant. Having spent a few months living on this famed island, I am confident in saying that this shines amongst the rest.
The Scandinavian restaurant is run by a group of friendly, attentive staff always there to greet you with a smile.
Located conveniently in the centre of town, it is an intimate and cosy space filled with plenty of seats on the decking area, perfect for an afternoon cocktail.
I recently headed back to my old stomping grounds and sampled their latest specials. But before we indulged in the delightful array of food, we ordered a giant bucket of sangria to enjoy for the evening. Made specially by the head barman Philip Osman, it’s a treat filled with tropical fruits.
The menu takes diners on a global tour. Given the Scandinavian background, one of the classics is the delicious Swedish meatballs, served with mashed potato, gravy, and lingonberry sauce. It’s absolutely divine.
The menu also slants towards steaks and burgers, but also features Grecian favourites such as tzatziki, served with warm homemade focaccia bread, olives and feta cheese. And there is a selection of authentic popular Thai dishes.
If those doesn’t tickle your fancy, indulge in some of the Mexican delights, such as chicken quesadillas, burritos or fajitas. But no matter where the kitchen travels, the chefs deliver.
My personal favourites are the huge choice of salads and pasta. They are each a generous portion size, made with original dressings, and served with homemade focaccia bread.
First up, the table shares some starters that confirm the restaurant’s dedication to quality local and imported ingredients.
The avocado and feta brushetta is made up of garlic bread topped with avocado salsa and feta cheese. Trust me when I say you’d only want to eat this version of brushetta from now on. It’s certainly the perfect starter to get your taste buds flowing.
Following this, we order the mains. The peri peri chicken tortillas dish from the specials menu was by far one of the best meals I have eaten there. Soft tortillas topped with grilled chicken breasts, a homemade peri peri sauce, fresh salad, and served with roasted soft wedges. Order some avocado with it and you’ll be in for a treat.
The dish is packed with flavours. And as always, it’s in the balance, that happy medium from the avocado and salad, the kick from the peri peri sauce and the woody hum of the fresh thyme in the wedges, which all complement the heavenly grilled chicken breasts.
The star of the show lay within the outrageously tempting dessert menu. A softly toasted Belgian waffle, served with heavenly vanilla ice cream on top. On the side were two pots: chocolate sauce, and berry compote. It wasn’t too sweet or rich, just the perfect combination of savoury and sweet. Exactly what a waffle should be.
Other equally tasty options include cheesecake, brownies and more.
The consistency carried through the next day where brunch classics are thoughtfully and expertly executed, including homemade bagels with a number of fillings (think classic philly cream cheese, ham and cheese); traditional English breakfast; as well as omelettes and Scandinavian toast. I ordered a yummy omelette filled with onions, tomatoes and peppers, with a serving of (as you can probably guess) avocado. A lovely little meal to start the day, and you’re not left feeling bloated due to the healthy choice of no carbs.
It’s this attention to detail and level of passion from all the chefs and the whole team that make Unni’s such a cracking find.
For the world on a plate – beautifully delivered – head there.
From the exceptional service and warm friendly staff, to the quality fresh ingredients, Unni’s is definitely the gem of the island. And it’s no wonder tourists and locals keep going back for more. With really reasonably priced meals, a generous selection of cuisines, and a classic cocktail menu, why wouldn’t you eat there?
For more information, visit facebook.com/unnis.phiphi