Rambutan

Hidden below one of Oxford Street’s most popular Thai eateries is this little tropical smuggler’s den of fruity cocktails and tasty bar snacks. Mid-week the vibe in the bamboo-decked bar lacks warmth – you’re more likely to strike up a conversation with the Buddha resting on the bar top than with the quiet but attentive barkeep. Tiki-inspired beverages are the mainstay of the cocktail menu. Dr Phil’s Famous Flaming Rum Punch involves pyrotechnics aplenty and delivers on rummy flavour to boot, whilst another flaming number – the Flaming Lemon & Ginger Piña Colada – reacquaints Sydney with the cocktail blender and kitsch coconut-shell serving vessels. There is a caveat – the list leans towards the toothachingly sweet. While you’re here though the bar’s tasting menu is worth a gander. Thai steamed dumplings of chicken, prawn and sweetcorn served with plum sauce were the barman’s recommendation and a sound one at that. And the crispy salt-cured beef with nahm jim jeaw provides enough chilli and salt to combat the sweetest drink.