A restaurant doesn't score 5 stars for being perfect - no no, 5 stars are reserved for that ideal…read moremix of great food and feel within its own self-selected category. Siam Eatery has done exactly this, rising to the top of the food chain in the fast-eats Asian category in the busy Covent Garden area.
First, the price point is right on with others in their category (think Wasabi and Itsu) at around 8 pounds for a solid meal. You can get away for 5.50 if you're not that hungry and don't want a drink - but then you'll miss out on their stellar Thai Iced Tea. And, might I add, this is the first quick-eats Asian place I've visited that has mastered - let alone even TRIED - Thai Iced Tea. DO IT.
Second, mains are wonderful. Customisable and packed with flavour, the curries don't just peg to the meat and veg, there's enough juice in there to create that perfect coated, rich rice base that is why we REALLY love curry. Their everyday special chicken is stunning (think spicy-red curry), while their standard red and green are just as good and full of flavour. The options of red, brown and white rice, or without rice and salad instead, have reached Tortilla-level customisation without having traded options for quality (as Tortilla have done, IMHO).
Third, it's crazy fast. Most everything is pre-made, as this category is good at, but they do so well to keep you from knowing it. Everything is kept hot and unpackaged (except for the fridge salads, of course), and made just for you. It really does feel like you've stumbled into a legit curry house here. The spot is busy come lunchtime, though you'll get dinner in 30 seconds flat. And unlike a lot of popular lunch spots around, they're open til 20:00 most nights, making dinner here feasible.
There are about 10 seats in this place, but you don't need to eat here. Though it's nice and classy, this is undoubtedly a grab-and-go place.
Seriously, though - don't forget your Thai Iced Tea. Would be a shame to miss the cherry atop the sundae at this gem of a curry palace.