Secret Thai Garden

Reviews

1. Darren Longdill ★☆☆☆☆

   We visited this restaurant tonight and, unfortunately, the food was absolutely terrible—easily the worst Thai meal we’ve ever had in New Zealand. The angel wings were completely tasteless and looked anemic, as though no seasoning or care had gone into them. The fish cakes were shockingly thin, dry, and overcooked. The yum talay was a total disappointment: it arrived with one piece of squid, one scallop that tasted like it had gone off, two prawns, and a few unpleasant pieces of fish. The salad was no better—poorly presented, with tomato and cucumber sliced so thinly they were practically invisible, and then piled onto an overwhelming amount of bitter celery and limp iceberg lettuce. The pad thai wasn’t remotely authentic. The sauce tasted unmistakably like it had been made with tomato sauce, which completely ruined the dish. Using tomato sauce in the base sauce for a pad thai is a really big no no and just a cheap way to produce a substandard sauce. The highlight of the entire meal was the $18 jug of Coke, which was only “fantastic” because it was poured straight from cans and was the only thing they couldn’t mess up. Overall, it felt like there was absolutely no love, care, or effort put into the food or its presentation. We left disappointed, still hungry, and certain of one thing: we would never return and absolutely do not recommend this restaurant.

   almost 6 months ago
2. Fiona Denny ★★★★★

   Hands down the best curries in Auckland. The yellow curry is my favorite curry ever and this restaurant does not disappoint. Curry puffs are the best I have ever tasted. Welcoming, friendly service, lovely atmosphere and the walk down to the restaurant is picturesque and very beautiful. Would gladly dine here again.

   almost 9 months ago
3. Ben Mcleod ★★★★★

   Firstly, it was like walking into a different world, we liked the decorations and garden scenery, beautiful and calming. The customer service were very friendly and helpful. The even helped us take pictures for our anniversary. The food was delicious, fresh and a variety of meals to choose from spiced foods and main meals from pork, beef etc. with plenty of fresh salads and tasty sauces added to the main meals. Food prices were reasonable. The desert was tasty, as well. Thanks! STG, for the amazing experience.

   almost 9 months ago

1. Janae Christensen ★★★★★

   Absolutely loved this place! The food was delish – full of flavour and beautifully presented. What really made the experience stand out though were the stunning gardens. Walking through felt like being transported to Thailand – surrounded by authentic Thai statues, colourful tuktuks, and magical fairy lights. A perfect spot for a relaxing meal with a great atmosphere. Highly recommend!

   almost 10 months ago
2. Marc Grantham ★★★★★

   Glad we acted on the recommended suggestion to try out the truly authentic flavours, friendly service and traditional setting and welcoming ambience that this hidden gem has on offer, neatly tucked off the road from plain sight and true to their name. Experience the discovery of the delightful, delicate lighting, traditional displays and decor, as your arrival meanders through an outdoor / indoor maze-like garden-path through the restaurant into various pockets of dinning location options; either completely under the open sky or under the “rustic” roofing. All the staff are extremely friendly and welcoming, service is prompt, courteous and on point. The auroras that drift through the open air will tantalise and explode on your senses, but, guaranteed each mouthful will excite your tastebuds as you enjoy each spoonful, till the very end. We were not disappointed and will most definitely be making a return on our next trip to Ōtāhuhu.

   1 year ago
3. J M ★★★☆☆

   Very unique interior with lots of lights and decorations, don't see many restaurants like this around! Food took a while to come out, waited for around half an hour but it wasn't bad enough to say that it wasn't worth the wait. Would recommend for the unique vibes, but not when you are super hungry! Great tasting dishes! Some of the staff were a bit shy and don't say much when you ask them a question, the rest are okay though~

   almost 2 years ago

1. April Kerslake ★★★★☆

   Good vegan options! Although the pepper garlic tofu was very bland. The vege pad Thai was very good. $7 corkage for BYO which is very reasonable. The food was a good portion size. The service was a little slow but th food came out very quickly after we ordered. The place is beautiful and decorations are awesome. Night time dinner I would suggest bringing a jacket as it was quite cold even with heaters.

   almost 2 years ago
2. Tiana Sharp ★★★★★

   Been coming here for years. My family really enjoy this place and we have had multiple birthdays here. It's such a beautiful place and definitely one of the most prettiest places to eat in South Auckland. It feels like your in another country. We usually get the set menu because it's so much easier when you have a big group. Food is great and the portions are perfect too. I love how they have ice cream now, they used to only give fruit but now have a few ice cream dishes to pick from, which is perfect for the kiddies. Will continue coming for more celebrations.

   almost 3 years ago
3. Dan Cornwall ★★★☆☆

   The decoration and atmosphere is amazing very special. Service was relatively quick but flat / not very friendly. Food was "okay". E.g Pad Thai was slightly over cooked.

   almost 3 years ago

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