A Journey Through Asia on a Jamaican Plate: Dining at Mystic Thai in Kingston
Mystic Thai, nestled in the heart of Kingston, offers far more than a traditional Thai dining experience; it is a masterclass in Asian culinary fusion that delights the senses and surprises the palate. During a recent visit, I embarked on an unforgettable tasting tour that transported me across the continent of Asia without ever leaving Jamaica. My culinary adventure began with the Pad Thai, a dish so delicately balanced in flavour and texture that it rivalled any I’ve had in Bangkok. Whether you choose it with vegetables, chicken, or shrimp, the noodles are stir-fried to perfection, infused with tamarind, lime, and that unmistakable umami of fish sauce and crushed peanuts.
Next came the Bangkok Pork Dumplings, five perfectly pleated pockets of seasoned pork served piping-hot, each bite a reminder of a bustling Bangkok night market. The Pork Belly Skewers, served with a spicy Thai chilli sauce, melted in the mouth with smoky undertones and a hint of sweetness.
Not to be outdone were the Chicken Minced Lettuce Wraps, featuring cilantro and scallion nestled in crisp, fresh leaves. This dish offered a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork. And for those craving bold, new flavours, the BBQ Beef Open Bao delivered with its tender slices of beef and pillowy bao bun.
But Mystic Thai is more than just Thai. The menu is a vibrant, evolving tapestry of Asia’s greatest culinary hits, stretching across Japan, India, and modern China. The restaurant dares to reimagine classics, presenting bold innovations like the Butter Chicken Open Bao, a daring yet successful fusion of Indian richness with Chinese street food form. The Golden Chicken Dumplings, with their crispy exterior and juicy, spice-kissed interior, are nothing short of brilliant.
And just when I thought the surprises were over, the Tandoori Fish Tikka arrived, smoky, tender, and deeply flavourful, showcasing a modern twist on traditional Indian grilling techniques. It’s dishes like these that make Mystic Thai a destination, not just a restaurant.
With an exhaustive menu that spans Thai, Japanese, Chinese, and Indian cuisines, Mystic Thai offers more than just a meal, it offers a passport to the East. It’s a culinary expedition where every bite is a stop in a different country, yet every dish is tied together by the common thread of excellence.
This isn’t just some of the best Asian food in Jamaica. It’s food that, in taste, presentation, and innovation, rivals Michelin-starred restaurants around the globe. For lovers of bold flavours and global experiences, Mystic Thai is a must-visit. The journey is Asian, but the heart is unmistakably Jamaican.
Mystic Thai Kingston
44 Lady Musgrave Rd, Kingston
Phone: (876) 671-7699
Open daily 12 noon – 10:00 pm
