Platu Shack: Flavorful Little Fish Wins a Starring Role

Youthapong Charoenpan

Platu Shack really caught my eye because I'm a big fan of platu, a popular species of mackerel that the restaurant uses as a core ingredient in a large number of its menu items.

Platu, which is a small, silvery skinned fish, is an extremely versatile and affordable fish that can be found in most wet markets in the kingdom. The operator of Platu Shack, which is located in Lat Phrao, must have some very good suppliers in order to be able to offer platu to diners year-round, since there can occasionally be seasonal shortages. Anyway, I'm certainly excited and keen to order some items from Platu Shack's interesting menu


Refreshing tang
Tom Yam Platu ('hot and sour soup with mackerel') is a clear soup, but don't take anything for granted since its zesty lime and spicy chillies will quickly leave an impression on your taste buds. Chef, however, manages to somehow find just the right balance, since it provides a refreshing feeling overall. In this dish, the fish is steamed and comes whole.

Platu Rad Prik ('deep fried mackerel in chili sauce'), is a whole deep fried fish that has a deliciously crispy consistency. Coated in a delicious, thick red chili sauce, fortunately it is not too spicy, having been cleverly blended with sweet and sour flavors.

In the Yam Platu ('spicy Thai mackerel salad'), the steamed fish comes with a heap of mixed vegetables. The blend of moist, succulent flakes of fish, fresh vegetables, and a spicy sauce proves to be a harmonious combination. In terms of textures and flavors, this has to be among the best salads I've ever experienced.


An impressive combination
Miang Platu ('fried mackerel served with herbs and a special dip') is another utterly delicious option available at Platu Shack. The cleverly prepared dip features a subtle mix of lime, fish sauce and fresh chilies, while the dish comes served with lettuce, lime, chopped shallots, ginger, ground peanuts, coconut flakes, lemongrass and chilies. I suggest taking a lettuce leaf and wrapping up whichever ingredients take your fancy before dipping it in the sauce.

Platu Shack opened in 2005 and now boasts 50 different dishes that feature this versatile and tasty little fish. While the dishes sampled were absolutely superb, somehow the restaurant operator has managed to find the perfect balance. Although the food is impressive, you won't find that it overshadows the venue, which is also a great place to meet with friends.

Platu Shack opens daily from 5 pm until midnight. Dishes cost anywhere from 60 baht to 150 baht (US$1.90-5.50).
For further information, contact the restaurant directly on Tel: +66 (0)89 770 3343, or +66 (0)2 539 5035-6.

Transport connections:
Train: The nearest MRT subway station to Platu Shack is Lat Phrao. On exiting the station take a taxi, or an alternative form of transport, to Lat Phrao Soi 71. Make your way down this road for about five kilometers until you reach a junction, where you should turn left.
Continue to the next junction, where you should turn right. You will soon see the restaurant on your left-hand side.


source: tannetwork.tv