Say Sawasdee to Bold Thai Flavors at Nara | By Cesar Cruz Jr.

The aroma greets you before the first bite — peppery broth rising from tender pork ribs, orange chilies glistening in a slow-simmered soup that is both bold and comforting. This is Leng Sab Nara, Nara Thai Cuisine’s signature Pork Ribs Soup at SM Megamall, a dish that invites diners to savor every bite as the tender meat releases rich, aromatic flavors into the sour-spicy broth.

Leng Sab Nara

Located on the third floor of the Fashion Hall, Nara feels like a destination within the mall. The muted palette of gray and purple lends a quiet sophistication, enhancing the restaurant’s elegant yet welcoming ambiance. The space strikes a careful balance — polished but never intimidating, refined yet inviting.

Authenticity is not a slogan but a standard. “We’re staying true to our recipe and the authenticity of Thai food,” says COO Charissa Amisola. “We don’t launch anything that’s not approved by Nara Bangkok.” Fresh vegetables, poultry, and seafood are sourced locally, but the rest of the menu, including essential sauces, curry pastes, and ingredients for mango sticky rice, is imported from Thailand to preserve flavor integrity.

In the kitchen, Chef Miss Sorada Sriwichai from Chiang Mai brings regional sensibility and adaptability. “We can make the dishes a little less spicy for your taste — so they’re easy to enjoy,” she says, emphasizing that authenticity and approachability can coexist.

Thai cuisine is often misunderstood as purely fiery, but Nara proves otherwise. The menu balances sour, sweet, salty, and gentle heat, letting flavors unfold naturally. Their yellow curry, rich and subtly sweet, follows a proprietary Bangkok recipe that has earned loyal diners.

Leng Sab Nara remains a standout. Once a Bangkok sensation, it is still a rare find in Manila. The tender ribs soak in a fragrant, sour-spicy broth meant for sharing — a dish that encourages conversation as much as it satisfies the appetite.

Other highlights include Fried Spinach with Marinated Pork and Prawn Chili Lime, offering crisp brightness; Crispy Shrimpcake with Plum Sauce, golden with sweet-tangy balance; Pomelo Salad, refreshing and citrusy; Stir-Fried Kale with Thai Anchovy, adding savory depth; Stir-Fried Beef Tenderloin in Pepper, tender and aromatic; and Bagoong Fried Rice, comforting and savory. For dessert, Mango Shake, Frozen Thai Milk Tea, Mango and Sticky Rice with Coconut Milk, and Sweet Banana in Coconut Cream with Agar Pearls provide a soothing finale.

The SM Megamall branch holds the Thai Select seal from the Ministry of Commerce of the Royal Thai Government, a recognition awarded to restaurants that uphold authentic Thai culinary and hospitality standards. Across its Makati and Molito, Alabang locations, Nara maintains the same commitment to quality.

From casual lunches to celebratory gatherings — with private dining, catering services, and party trays available — Nara Thai Cuisine delivers a brief, flavorful escape. In a city filled with choices, it stands out by honoring tradition while warmly welcoming everyone to the table.