The posh Thanying Restaurant claims to offer 'a genuine Royal Thai dining experience'. Founded in 1988 by Mom Rajawongse (M.R. - a Thai royal title which denotes a sovereign's great-grandchildren) Sorut Visuddhi, and his Thai actor business partner Mr. Kriangkrai Unhanandana, the restaurant is named in homage for Her Serene Highness Princess Sulabh–Valleng Visuddhi, the former head chef of the Thai royal family. Having dined at Thanying Restaurant, I find the experience itself to be very good, with the food being an eye-opening experience, totally different from typical Thai food. However, I doubt the 'Royal Experience' is truely authentic.
Ambience at Thanying Restaurant is posh elegance, exuding a refined sophistication. Think old-world, colonial European charm, with simple cushioned wooden furnishings, white table clothes, chandeliers overhead, and ample greenery surrounding the quaint, restored bungalow. Decor consists of a mix of classical renaissance style paintings, oriental style vases, and Thai inspired patterns. Very nice! The small and limited dining area means few other people are around, so there is some small measure of privacy.
Service at Thanying Restaurant befits its Thai fine dining status. Staff are polite and professional, welcoming guests, and seating them quickly. I note they are fluent in English, able to converse decently, and able to provide additional descriptions of dishes beyond what is stated on the menu, good product knowledge. The menu is clear, with English descriptions, though I would have liked to see more pictures. Tableside service is unobstrusive and quick, staff take care not to disrupt the flow of conversation at the table. However, food orders take time to fulfill, be prepared for a waiting time of at least 20 minutes.
Food at Thanying Restaurant revolves around Thai Royal cuisine. Dishes are well executed in texture, presented beautifully, and carry good flavour. That said, I find that it's not completely authentic Royal Thai, as the general taste of curry dishes, instead of being nicely balanced, tends to be overly sweet. Very unusual, I personally am not that used to Thai curries being this sweet, though the chef insists that this is 'real'. However, the other non-curry dishes are tasty and delicious. Their appetizers in particular, are outstanding. Portion sizes are generally small, sized for individuals. For common locals, prices are expensive, but foreigners and affluent locals may find prices to be affordable.