1. The dark interior of Neill's Tavern on Soi Ruam Rudee, highlighted by brick walls, heavy furniture and dark wood trim will remind many American diners of the prototypical "
roadhouse"
type of restaurant prevalent in the States during the 50s and early 60s where steak and the martini were king. A look at the menu will confirm the initial impression also. It's strictly surf and turf with a few poultry selections here and there and the preparations are all traditional. They even have Oysters Rockefeller in the appetizer section just below the escargots. If you like traditional American cooking lightly touched by a Continental brush, however, then Neill's is the place. The name even comes from an authentic American hero, Neill Armstrong, who walked on the moon just before the restaurant opened in 1969 at the original Siam Square location. It's been on Soi Ruam Rudee for the last 30 years now and the original owner, a Thai-Chinese gentleman also named Neill, was a butcher and ran the things here, although the restaurant is now run by his son Pipat and his wife Linda. This combination has created a smooth­running operation that has been a favorite in Bangkok for almost 40 years now. And there’s also a location on Sukhumvit Soi 21 (Asoke). It will be a favorite of ours from now on too, after the great lunch that we had there recently. Starting with Oysters Rockefeller, a nicely balanced dish of bacon, cheese, spinach and the oyster. Lobster chowder was next and was a light, creamy preparation with tender lobster tail meat from native waters. Both of these dishes were devoured, and the next course came shortly after in the form of a local beef tenderloin covered with a peppercorn sauce that included shredded carrots and was great. The steak was a surprise, being very tender, and much cheaper than the comparable American cut. This is due to Neill's intimate knowledge of the local meats, gained after so many years of experience. Crepes suzette finished the meal, and almost us, and was the same high quality as the rest of the offerings. If you want a great steak in an authentic atmosphere, we can vouch for Neill's anytime. We're sure you won't be disappointed. Neill's Tavern, Soi Ruam Rudee, 02-256-6874.