We begin with a homage to Golden Mile Complex, the Thai food haven of the yesteryears.
Those who frequent it for the delicious food within would all have their favourite eateries. Now that each of them has moved out, we can all only hope they reopen elsewhere.
One of the spots that I recall is Golden Banana, previously set up near the Thai supermarket. The once or twice I passed by it, it usually had a queue waiting to purchase some of their fritters.
Fortunately for its loyal customers, it has resurfaced nearby in Beach Road at City Gate.
Do note that this is not to be confused with the Talad Thai Banana at the current Thai Market Singapore at Aperia Mall.
This is why sometimes regulars would call Golden Banana the ‘original’.
It is owned by a Bangkok native Saelee Pornjit, who started selling Thai snacks locally since 1998, and fritters since 2013 with a self-made recipe.
The storefront of Golden Banana is bright and inviting, almost giving off the vibe of an ice cream parlour.
A golden shade of yellow is the choice of colour, dominating the walls and even the bar stools.
Behind the counter hangs a painting of close-up banana trees to complete the look, and just in case you forget what they are selling.
Fritters last until when it runs out. They are stacked in rattan baskets on the counter for the ease of seeing what is available.
Four snacks are offered: Sweet Potato Balls ($4 for 12pcs), Sweet Potato Fritter ($4 for 6pcs), Yam Fritter ($4 for 5pcs), and of course the Banana Fritter ($4 for 6pcs).
However, do note that not all items are available at any one time.
The crown jewel that is the Banana Fritter ($4 for 6pcs) uses Thai bananas that are on the riper side. They are also coated in an eggless batter which contains grated coconut as a binding agent.
Bite into the banana to experience its soft texture, contrasted with the crispy and sesame seed-included outer skin.
The bananas are fried in halves – do not get too addicted too soon or you will have to get more.
I know what people liked are the crunchy bits that are added – pick them up with the sticks, or simply pour the ‘leftovers’ into your mouth.
I enjoyed the Sweet Potato Balls too. These orbs carry a naturally subtle sweetness, and the chewy texture is exactly like biting into a mochi.
This is thanks to the tapioca starch mixed into the mashed sweet potato in the making process.
Do not overlook the Yam Fritters and Sweet Potato Fritters either, which feel more substantial to snack on, perhaps due to their bigger size.
Apart from Mondays, these snacks are available at Golden Banana. I would happily visit again to pick up some of them, but maybe not too often so I will not get addicted, yes?
Golden Banana
City Gate #02-27, 371 Beach Road, Singapore 199597
Opening Hours: 11am – 8pm (Tues – Sun), Closed Mon
Other Related Entries
Diandin Leluk Thai Restaurant (City Gate)
Soi 47 Thai Food (Tiong Bahru)
Soi 47 Thai Food (Orchard Central)
Ying Thai (Ang Mo Kio)
Warm Up Café (The Star Vista)
* Written by Dean Ang and Daniel Ang. Follow @DanielFoodDiary on Facebook, Instagram and Youtube for more food news, food videos and travel highlights. DFD paid for food reviewed unless otherwise stated.
