The Basement

If you're looking for an atmospheric candlelit meal, then you need look no further than this underground haven of tempting Thai cuisine. As its name suggests, The Basement is set in two vaulted cellars beneath the streets of Ashbourne. An intimate restaurant with deep-red walls and tinkling piano music, it was made for romantic rendezvous.

However, it is equally well suited to platonic visits, so myself and a dear friend sat down to enjoy the delights on offer. First up were the fishcakes, served with a sweet chilli sauce and flavoursome carrot and cucumber pickle, and beautifully presented deep-fried minced chicken and prawns served on toast with the same tangy chilli sauce. The crunchy sesame seed topping was superb; a perfect contrast to the soft chicken and prawn. Sliced crispy roast duck with noodles was a great main with a crunchy texture tempered by a rich caramelised tamarind sauce. My companion went for the tofu and vegetable green curry - a dish boasting a sensational chilli kick which poked its way through the delicate flavours of the coconut milk and fresh basil without overpowering them. With full bellies and equally full of praise, we said our goodbyes to our friendly waiter from Bangkok and his top-notch team of staff