Kolae Menu Guide to Dishes, Prices, Timings, and Reviews
If you enjoy learning about unique restaurants, you may also like reading the Popeyes Breakfast Menu Guide to Dishes, Locations, & Reviews, which explores popular food choices across regions. In the same way, this article gives a deep and clear look at the Kolae Menu, a rising name in the UK food scene that brings Southern Thai flavours to London.
Kolae is not a fast-food place or a casual café. It is a modern Thai grill that focuses on tradition, fire cooking, and strong flavours. The restaurant has gained attention for its bold taste, cultural roots, and warm dining experience.
This guide explains everything about Kolae. You will learn about the restaurant, the owner, locations, reviews, full food menu, opening times, and delivery details. The information is written clearly so anyone can understand it easily.
Restaurant Overview of Kolae
Kolae is a Southern Thai restaurant located in Borough Market, London. The restaurant focuses on grilled food inspired by Thai coastal regions. It uses open flames, coconut marinades, and spice blends that reflect real Thai home cooking.
The name “Kolae” comes from a Southern Thai cooking method. In this style, meat or seafood is coated in a thick coconut curry paste and grilled slowly. This process creates deep flavour and a smoky aroma.
Kolae stands out because it respects Thai culture while presenting food in a modern way. The kolae menu avoids shortcuts and focuses on freshness, balance, and authentic Southern Thai flavours.
Owner and Culinary Vision
Kolae is led by Chef David Thompson and his culinary team, who are known for respecting Thai traditions. The team has spent years studying regional Thai cooking. They focus strongly on authenticity rather than trends.
The owner believes food should tell a story. Every dish reflects Southern Thailand’s climate, spices, and coastal life. The restaurant uses traditional techniques while maintaining modern presentation.
This approach has helped Kolae gain respect among food critics and everyday diners.
Kolae Locations in the UK
Currently, Kolae operates from a single location in London. The restaurant is based inside Borough Market, which is known for high-quality food vendors.
Location Details
| City | Area | Address Type |
|---|---|---|
| London | Borough Market | Stand-alone restaurant |
Kolae has not expanded to other UK cities yet. The brand focuses on quality over quantity. Many customers expect future expansion due to its growing popularity.
Google Reviews and Customer Experience
Kolae receives strong positive reviews on Google. Most customers praise the food quality, flavour depth, and friendly service. The average rating stays high due to consistency.
Customers often mention the smoky grilled taste and balanced spice levels. Many reviews say the food feels authentic and different from regular Thai restaurants.
Some guests note that prices are higher than average. However, most agree the quality justifies the cost. Overall, Kolae holds a solid reputation among London diners.
What Makes the Kolae Menu Special
The kolae menu focuses on sharing dishes and bold flavours. The restaurant designs meals so people can taste many items in one visit. Coconut, turmeric, chilli, and herbs appear in most recipes.
The menu changes slightly based on seasonal ingredients. However, core dishes remain available throughout the year. The grill plays a central role in most items.
Food arrives beautifully plated but remains rooted in tradition.
Starters and Small Plates
The starters introduce guests to Southern Thai flavours. These dishes are light but full of character.
| Dish Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Herb and Kale Fritters | Crispy fritters with fermented chilli |
| Crispy Chicken Skin | Fried skin with spice dust |
| Grilled Mussel Skewers | Served with calamansi lime |
| Southern Thai Pickles | Tangy and refreshing side |
These dishes work well for sharing. They prepare the palate for richer flavours ahead.
Grilled Dishes from the Fire
Grilling is the heart of Kolae’s kitchen. These dishes use coconut marinades and slow flame cooking.
| Dish Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Pork Belly Kolae | Coconut-marinated and flame grilled |
| Grilled Chicken Thighs | Juicy meat with turmeric glaze |
| Lamb Skewers | Spiced and charred evenly |
| Fish Kolae Style | Grilled whole fish with herbs |
The kolae menu highlights grilling because it brings out natural flavours. Smoke adds depth without overpowering spices.
Signature Thai Curries
Curries play a major role in Southern Thai cooking. Kolae prepares them slowly and carefully.
| Curry Name | Main Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Gati Fish Curry | Coconut milk, turmeric, fresh fish |
| Venison Pepper Curry | Black pepper, herbs, slow-cooked meat |
| Chuu Chee Prawn Curry | Red curry paste and coconut cream |
| Vegetable Southern Curry | Seasonal vegetables and spice paste |
Each curry balances heat and richness. Coconut cream softens spice while herbs add freshness.
Rice and Side Dishes
Rice supports the bold flavours of the main dishes. Kolae serves simple but high-quality sides.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Jasmine Rice | Steamed and fragrant |
| Sticky Rice | Traditional Thai style |
| Grilled Vegetables | Seasonal and lightly seasoned |
| Thai Slaw | Fresh herbs and lime dressing |
These items complete the kolae menu and improve the overall dining balance.
Desserts at Kolae
Desserts stay simple and comforting. They reflect Thai home-style sweets rather than heavy desserts.
| Dessert Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Mango Custard | Smooth custard with ripe mango |
| Sticky Rice with Coconut | Sweet coconut sauce |
| Palm Sugar Pudding | Soft texture and mild sweetness |
Desserts avoid heavy sugar. They end the meal on a calm note.
Drinks and Beverages
Kolae offers drinks that complement spicy food. The selection includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
| Drink Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Mocktails | Lime soda, herbal coolers |
| Cocktails | Thai-inspired flavours |
| Wines | Selected to match spice |
| Craft Beers | Light and refreshing |
The drinks menu supports the food rather than overpowering it.
Opening and Closing Times
Kolae follows fixed hours but may change during holidays.
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 12:00 PM | 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM | 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | 11:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
Always check before visiting, as market events can affect timings.
Delivery and Takeaway Timings
Kolae offers limited delivery due to the nature of grilled food.
| Service | Availability |
|---|---|
| Takeaway | Available during open hours |
| Delivery Apps | Limited zones in London |
| Large Orders | Pre-booking required |
The restaurant focuses more on dine-in quality.
Price Range and Value
Kolae sits in the mid-to-premium price range. Starters cost less, while grilled and curry dishes cost more, making the kolae menu flexible for different budgets. Portion sizes support sharing and group dining.
Most guests feel the quality matches the price. Ingredients, skill, and flavour depth justify the cost.
Food lovers who explore detailed guides like the Aston Marina Menu Guide to Dishes, Locations, and Reviews will appreciate Kolae’s focused approach. Unlike large chains, Kolae keeps its menu tight and purposeful.
Why Food Lovers Choose Kolae
Food lovers choose Kolae for its authentic Southern Thai flavours and careful cooking style. Many restaurants serve Thai food, but few focus deeply on the regional taste and traditional techniques like Kolae does. At Kolae, the kitchen uses real Southern Thai curry pastes, fresh herbs, and time-tested grilling methods that bring out rich and bold flavours.
The kolae menu is designed for people who enjoy tasting a variety of dishes together. Instead of serving plain or generic meals, each dish feels lively, spicy, and well-balanced. Diners appreciate that the food is not overly sweet or dull, but has depth and real character.
Final Thoughts
Kolae stands out because it stays true to its roots while offering a refined dining experience. The restaurant does not follow food trends blindly. Instead, it focuses on authentic Southern Thai cooking, strong flavours, and traditional grilling methods that define the kolae menu and feel honest and well crafted.
Food lovers appreciate Kolae for its balance of culture and quality. The careful use of spices, fresh ingredients, and open-fire cooking creates meals that feel both exciting and comforting. Each visit offers something memorable, whether it is the smoky aroma from the grill or the deep flavour of its curries.
Overall, Kolae is a strong choice for anyone who values real taste, thoughtful cooking, and a meaningful food experience. It may not aim to please everyone, but it clearly satisfies those who seek authenticity and depth in their meals.
