Dynamic menu keeps American spot fresh
Too much of the same thing, no matter how good it is, will be eventually boring, like listening to JT's "Suit & Tie" on repeat or overloading on room decoration in LINE Play. The same can be true with restaurants too as you may often find yourself ordering the same dishes again and again.
Many restaurants, however, pride themselves on keeping their menus fresh and interesting by introducing new items on a regular basis. Quince Eatery & Bar in Sukhumvit Soi 45 is one example of a frequent menu changer. They rotate things so much it makes sense for them to use A4 paper instead of leather-bound books. Chef Van of Escapade Burgers & Shakes on Phra Athit Road often serves off-menu items according to special ingredients he can get his hands on.
A recent addition to Bangkok's dining scene called Shuffle also promises to keep its menu fresh by adding new items every month ("shuffle", get it?). The food philosophy of the place is to give patrons real flavours of seasonal ingredients through traditional cooking techniques without overdoing things. The guy behind the place is Chef Krisada "Nick" Chintakananda, who is the former chef of Burger Factory. Although he dubs his cuisine as rustic, there's nothing coarse about what he serves on the plates.
Decor-wise, the industrial loft perhaps could use some polish and colour. The masculine interior is monotonously dark, but fortunately, tall windows lend airiness and allow plenty of light in. There's also a balcony area in case you find the indoor area too stiff.
Rustic quesadilla: parma ham with tomato sauce and mozzarella (B195; prices subject to tax and service charge) offers a thinner version of the "stuffed Mexican pancake". Six flavourful slices are crisp but don't crumble, allowing you to take full bites.
Although the ingredients of Peach and prosciutto salad (B235) may look like they have been casually thrown together, the dish is actually a well-calculated and yummy formula. The rocket leaves rock your palate with peppery sensation and are complemented by salty cured ham. Further making this salad an orgy of flavours are mild-tasting brie cheese with refreshing sweetness from sprinkles of caramelised almond and half a peach.
There's so much to love about the big and beautiful One good burger (B325). Between buns that are made from scratch are a perfectly plump patty, melted Swiss cheese, veggies and three strips of crispy bacon aka God's gift to the world. If these goodies aren't enough to make you throw your diet plan away, drops of roasted garlic aioli may do that trick.
Honey-smoked pork chop
Served with simple salad and mashed potatoes, Honey-smoked pork chop (B425) is a bit of a letdown. The pork slab is smoky and aromatic but rather lean. The accompanying dip of mustard, cream and butter may be a necessary addition to the meat for those who like strong flavours.
Ample aromatic bites are to be had with Grilled lamb and rice (B425). The smell of lamb, which may be a turnoff for some, goes unnoticed as it's deliciously masked with turmeric rice.
On the drinks front, this rustic place furthers the American theme with cocktails and craft beers. End your meal with light and refreshing sips from Lohito (B230) which utilises sweet and sour lychee. Other lady-friendly drinks include Pear & pom and Peachmary. The fellas may be more interested in American "craft beer" (B200 per bottle) supplied by Beervana, which is also steadily making its way to many notable bars and restaurants around town. Wine selections include sparkling, red, white and rose. Desserts are supplied by Chef Toey of Chu in Asoke.
With good American cuisine and a refined atmosphere, this is definitely worth a visit. Its ever-shuffling menu also makes Shuffle a fresh addition to the restaurant scene that's perfect for those who are easily bored with the same ol' thing.G
Peach and prosciutto salad
Shuffle Rustic Cuisine & Bar American
2/F, Rain Hill, 777 Sukhumvit Soi 47
02-261-6992
facebook.com/shufflerestaurant
Rustic quesadilla
Grilled lamb and rice
One good burger
