grumpyoldman

I would probably go (if it was a no children event), but would only definitely commit if the location were not too far for travel. Therefore, I would prefer something centrally located - within the boundaries of anywhere between Kata and Kamala. I wouldn't be fussed about whether drinks or food were free, but a buffet style meal should be available. If there is to be free refreshment, something will be needed (as per previous occasions) to keep away balloon chasers who are not contributing TV members. I think it should be a member and partner only thing - I have an aversion to listening to other people's screaming kids (yes, I know that it's not YOURS who screech, it's always everyone else's kids).

As to venue, it would be nice to find a place with a pool. There's a goody (hotel with largish restaurant, bar and nice pool) on 50 Pi Rd here in Patong that would fit the bill perfectly and would probably be more than willing to host. No problem with on-street parking at this location either. It probably could not do a buffet (I can find look into this), but there is no shortage of choice for caterers at moderate price with very good food (I can easily sort out some contacts, if so desired).

I haven't answered your poll, because it is a bit too definitive.

amyb, on 2012-02-23 17:11:10, said:

I use a gym not far from this place, and whilst I was there this morning I got a call from the wife saying she was on the road and suggested we meet up somewhere for lunch.   So, neither of us having been there before, we agreed on this place.

Firstly the name.   I thought it was called 'Pho' also, but it turns out that's the Viet name for noodle.   The actual name of the place is 'Sunavien', though you won't see that name anywhere in English........

Anyway, nice and clean inside, and as we were the only customers, plenty of tables.   They have a large fish tank at one end, with an interesting looking specimen inside, which the proprietor called a 'Dragon Fish'.

Not a very lengthy menu (I counted a total of 12 choices), so at first I wasn't too enthusiastic.   However, I ordered spring rolls with beef, and a pork and vegetable pancake.

The spring rolls were excellent.   Choice of 2 or 3 large (maybe 4-5" long and 1.5" diameter) sausage shaped parcels of fine pancake filled with salad and in my case pieces of beef (wife had same but with prawn).   The art of eating them is to nibble off the top at one end, and add a teaspoon of accompanying sauce before each bite, and work your way through to the end.   3 of these are really quite filling, and at 99 baht something of a bargain.

The crispy pancake with the filling of pork and vegetables I've had before at J'Taime, and as there, really enjoyable.

The place opens from 11-2 lunchtimes, then 5 to 10 in the evening.   They close on Mondays.   It's not somewhere I would go for leisurely lunch or dinner, but I'd definitely go there again for a light lunch or supper.

There's a Japanese restaurant next door called (I think) 'Sakado', and they seem to share menus (though completely different businesses).   Sakado has quite a lengthy menu, and they do BBQ also, though I think it only opens in the evening.

Unfortunately no photos as didn't have the camera in the car.