The Cargo Hold is nestled in the stern of the Phantom Ship along the Promenade at uShaka Marine World. It is here where you literally dine with the sharks. A GREAT talking point for any awkward first date.
The Cargo Hold has been travelling around the world – so to speak. They have embarked on a culinary crusade, exploring some of the world’s most exotic cuisines! Their mission: to bring these flavours to us! Each plate is meticulously planned and executed for the pleasure of our pallets.
This month, we were given the opportunity to dock in the Kingdom of Thailand… the land of tropical beaches, crystal clear waters and iconic temples. The land of funny words which I cannot pronounce. Luckily the menu you read is not as authentic as the food and includes an English description!
Starters:
For starters we tried the SA-TAY – which was marinated chicken tenderloin that had been skewered and grilled, served with a delicious home-style peanut sauce. I was worried the peanut sauce may be overpowering but this was not the case, it complimented the dish perfectly. The chicken was so tender it melted in my mouth. My hubby ordered the ANGEL SHRIMP, it was as if the dish was sent from the heavens above! Marinated shrimps wrapped in a pastry shell and fried until golden, served with both a chilli and plum sauce. Delicious, light and fresh!
Mains:
For mains we got a little more daring and opted for the PED TOD and HOR-MOK (any guesses as to what they are?)
PED TOD: Half-roasted duck with a blended honey, garlic and ginger sauce. Garnished with peas and corn.
HOR-MOK: Fresh fish steamed in banana leaf with red curry, herbs, spices and coconut milk. Being the Durban girl I am, they had me at curry!
The hubby had never had duck before and this was a new taste experience for him. Though the flavours meshed well, we would have liked the skin to be a bit crispy and the flesh a bit more rosy-pink. In saying that, there were no complaints on the evening and the meal was enjoyable.
My fresh fish was served still wrapped in its banana leaf, which I loved. Opening it up felt like I was unwrapping a present on Christmas morning! The fish – cooked to perfection. I ended up mixing all the flavours together and adding some fresh chilli – for an extra kick. The portion size was good but it still felt light; there was definitely still room for dessert. But there ALWAYS is… isn’t there!
Dessert:
I love a good dessert and don’t often allow myself to indulge. But when you read Deep Fried Banana and Chocolate Spring Rolls on a menu, it is difficult to hold yourself back. The banana was halved and covered in a light batter, deep-fried and topped with honey drizzles and sesame seeds. The spring rolls were filled with rich milk chocolate and drizzled lightly with chocolate syrup. Both served with ice cream. If we could have eaten gigantic portions of these the entire night, we would have! Simply delicious and unanimously our favorite of the night!
Overall we loved the concept and had a delicious experience! We would like to thank Thuli for being our waitress and Nico for the warm greeting and kind hospitality.
The Cargo Hold Thailand Menu will run in conjunction with their normal set menu until the end of November. To read up more on the Cargo Hold, visit their website. To make your booking give them a call on 031 328 8065. Be sure to book early enough to secure a spot alongside the tank, your date will be super impressed as it is truly the best seat in the house!