Trajai Steakhouse may appear like one of the many run-of-the-mill tourist hangouts ubiquitous in this neighborhood. An impression not helped by its rather kitschy décor, including a feng shui fountain. Despite this, it does achieve its limited but worthy aims, to be a Thai-style steakhouse serving decent and affordable meals for local carnivores. Separated from the street by a panel of potted plants and a spartan concrete wall, this cozy little place gives off a friendly and intimate vibe and features both alfresco and air-con dining areas. The speedy service means you can enjoy some complimentary deep-fried peanuts, rapidly followed by warm bread and butter while you peruse the pictorial menu, broken down into appetizers, salads, soups and of course steaks, categorized according to meat type. For starters, we recommend the New Zealand mussel salad, a bowl of greens brimming with sizable fresh mussels paired with a rich thousand island dressing. Another satisfying dish is the chef’s salad, which comes packed with adds-on like beef, chicken, ham with strips of cheddar and boiled egg to boot. The salmon steak with dill cream sauce also pleases with the perfectly-grilled fillet served with freshly steamed cauliflower, carrot and broccoli. We also like the choice of either fries, mashed or steamed potatoes to accompany the dish. When it comes to the steaks, we could do with a thicker chunk of T-bone. Thankfully, the tender beef and the slightly spicy peppercorn sauce lessen the blow considerably. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can always substitute the beef for venison, ostrich or crocodile. Desserts are just as nice—try the crepe with vanilla ice-cream and blueberry sauce. Served warm, the crepe is bathed in sweet and sour blueberry sauce and comes with two scoops of ice cream. The restaurant does serve breakfast and lunch, but we recommend going in the evening for a more lively atmosphere. So, if you’re craving a decent steak in the neighborhood, Trajai is worth a visit; and you can take comfort in the fact that the tacky furnishings mean you’ll be paying a lot less for the privilege. No corkage charge.
