Restaurant imports 52 tons of Thai food

Blue Elephant, the Thai restaurant at the Hilton in Portomaso, has imported 52 tons of food from Thailand and has served an average of 80 covers a day since it opened its doors to patrons over two years ago.

Hilton general manager Ken McLaren said the restaurant's success justified the considerable investment in decor, which was aimed at creating an authentic Thai atmosphere. Blue Elephant is part of a franchise operating in over 11 locations. The Blue Elephant seats 180 patrons, either outdoors overlooking the marina, or nestled among the luscious greenery and fish-filled stream that runs between the tables.

It has now updated its menu which comes graded with "elephants", three signifying a "very hot" meal, although there is such a variety of dishes that even those unused to Thai food will find something suitable.

The menu includes set banquets, ideal for those who want to sample various dishes without the headache of choosing.