Melissa Fisher has found yet another tiny hole-in-the-wall gem.
Hidden behind Wat Saravon, the Khmer-Thai restaurant, Paratan sits on street 23, around the corner from St. 172. The two-story complex and outdoor patio makes this a Phnom Penh oasis, complete with a rectangular reflecting catfish pond and plenty of shrubbery. The open air seating area provides large, sturdy wicker chairs for evening relaxation while sipping a glass of fresh carrot fruit shake for US$1.90. The ground-floor interior provides another refuge from the heat, where you can comfortably enjoy popular dishes like an order of crispy Spring Rolls, US$3.50 or the popular Pad Thai flat noodles with pork, beef or chicken, US$3.70.
For more traditional dining, upstairs the cushioned floor seating covering the entire indoor area, allows for larger parties to share a meal Thai-style. An open balcony keeps diners from feeling claustrophobic. The extensive Khmer and Thai menu is a constant page-turner for hungry diners, but the friendly wait-staff can point out client favorites from the soup, stir-fry, salad, or seafood options listed under each regional cuisine. Though portions are big, be wary as sticker prices listed next to items may vary from menu to menu. Do double check before ordering the price of your dish! Paratan plays host to the occasional busload of tourists, but with three different seating areas, it should not be a problem to find a quiet place to dine. Bring kids as well, as the fishpond and rabbit cages make this one varied dining experience.
Paratan, 82-44 Street 23, Tel. 012 530 707, Open Daily 9am-10pm.
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