Cafe Boonchoo

We went to Café Boonchoo for dinner to use our Scoopon vouchers for Pad Thai. If you're not a local, you wouldn't know this shopping strip existed, as it's off the main roads. The décor is eclectic, clean and tidy.

We were seated by a staff member who when we enquired about the response to the Scoopon deal, was not very positive (too cheap, one off customers). Although his negativity was a bit off-putting, we hoped his attitude wasn't shared in the kitchen.

Our expectations weren't too high after the initial front of house vibe, but I'm happy to say that the food was excellent. We felt a bit guilty about just having the Pad Thai, so although we weren't hugely hungry we ordered the mixed entrée as well. The spring rolls were the among the best I've had. Crisp, not oily with a yummy filling.

The waitress who served us seemed inexperienced but couldn't have been more attentive. Her positive attitude was more of what's needed.

The Pad Thai was the best I've eaten in Geelong. Lately at other restaurants I've found it way too sweet or stingy with the meat, but not here – the perfect balance of salty and sweet. Not oily, lots of chicken with peanuts on the side… (some places serve without, it's just not the same!) The serve was generous and I struggled to finish – although it was only the lunch time sized serve for Scoopons we were told…

We didn't find the atmosphere relaxing with a staff member having loud phone calls in the adjoining area. His voice carried and it wasn't conductive to lingering and ordering dessert.

We noticed they have a breakfast menu also, so we imagined they are experimenting with different things - trying hard to make a go of their café and good on them.

Based on what we tried, we'd like to come back and sample other dishes because the food was great. I think we'll have takeaway though…