Southeast Asian cuisine is probably the most popular International cuisines amongst Indians. With innumerable street food joints and restaurants, people never run out of options and they normally expect the same kind of taste everywhere.  But Five Fat Monks launched a few months back is different. With a definite spike to the taste , freshest ingredients mixed with some amazing sauces and toppings makes it a Southeast Asian culinary affair to remember.

Balewadi High Street and the adjoining area is no doubt the hottest food destination in Pune. Located at Park Grandeur diagonally opposite Balewadi High Street , things couldn’t have been better for Five Fat Monks.

The Menu has everything that you expect in Southeast Asian restaurants right from Soups, Salads, Bites, Noodles, Dim-Sums, Rice , Gravies and Dessert . These include popular dishes from China, Thailand, Burma , Malaysia . But what is most interesting is the “Make It your Way” column. You can easily make your own dish with five simple steps , the first choosing a base ( Rice –Brown/ Steamed) , Noodles ( flat/Plain) or Bao. The second step includes picking up a protein viz Tofu/ Paneer/ Egg/Chicken/ Lamb/Fish/Prawns while the rest includes choosing veggies , sauces and garnishes. They allow you to choose 3 veggies and 3 garnishes. If you like it spicy go for Schezwan, Hunan or Black Pepper  while if you like it mild go for sweet and sour and Manchurian. The hot and mild sauces are clearly segregated in the menu. The DimSum is amazing as well . Although Manchurian and Spring Rolls are very common , just out of the blue I thought I should order for a veg Manchurian which I did and was pleasantly surprised. One more trip to Five fat Monks and it will be on my list again. The option of brown rice is good for those who are health conscious. And if you prefer things the traditional way , then there is a specially curated menu which includes Divine Soy- Sauce Sizzle, taste of thai ( chicken/prawns) , Burmese Khowsuey etc.

Overall this Eatery has everything you look for in a South Asian Restaurant. It is just that the taste has an added spike, an extra dose of flavor. The ambience is good but what I liked was the courteous and friendly staff. There are a lot of restaurants in Baner and people are spoilt for choices. But Five Fat Monks is worth a try!