Esarn (or Isan) is a Northeastern region of Thailand famed for its unique, delicious cuisine and vibrant culture, which is exactly what you’ll find at Esarn Rocket — the modern-authentic Thai eatery in Westmere quickly becoming known for turning out some of the tastiest Thai in town.

Here, the focus falls on authentic yet approachable modern Thai, served in a space that is laid-back and welcoming, drawing on vibrant Thai street food culture to give it an unmistakable edge.

The food runs the gamut from classics like Pad Thai and Thai Green Curry to more traditional takes such as Som Tum Pla La with raw prawns and Spicy Pork Salad with anchovy, but trust us when we say that every single dish is worthy of your attention.

There are five curries to choose from, spanning green, red, yellow, and two variations of massaman, and they’re among the best we’ve had anywhere. The green, red, and yellow iterations come with your choice of meat (the crispy pork belly is sublime) and a melange of fresh vegetables in impossibly flavoursome sauces that are pitch-perfect on the heat front.

Meanwhile, a number of tasty takes on fried rice are essential orders (the Railway Fried Rice is a more unique spin, while the Tom Yum Fried Rice is a crowd-pleaser with it’s tangy undercurrent and subtle spice), and the dedicated Stir-Fried Menu is brimming with delicious dishes, from sweet & sour pork or chicken to chicken cashew nut stir fry, Pu Pad Pong Ga Ree with soft shell crab, and a flavour-packed basil stir fry with either chicken, pork, or crispy pork belly.

Esarn’s Street Food Menu features a number of more adventurous dishes, while the dedicated Fish Menu comprises two delicious options: a deep-fried fish with three-flavour sauce and a herby garden fish with green apple, roasted chilli flakes, and chilli paste. The eatery’s larb is also a must-try, bursting with flavour and packed with fresh herbs and tangy sauce — the perfect accompaniment to one of the crisp salads on offer.

Elsewhere, noodles take centre stage in flavourful Pad Thai and Pad See Yew, and a delicious Mixed Seafood Pad Kee Mao dish — all three of which are worth trying, while a comprehensive vegetarian and vegan menu ensures there’s something for every taste and proclivity. There are even kids dishes if you’re stopping by with the family, with a mini pad see yew and chicken fried rice on offer.

And, while dining in is a great way to spend an evening with family or friends in a lively local spot (they’re also awaiting a liquor licence, meaning soon you can accompany your meal with an ice-cold Thai beer or cocktail), Esarn does takeaways exceptionally well — coming packed in quality containers that retain the heat and don’t spill (without a sheet of glad wrap in sight).

While Auckland has no shortage of exceptional Thai eateries, Esarn Rocket stands out for it’s flavoursome, fresh, quality food and friendly service, drawing on the community-centric energy of Westmere to offer a new spot for locals and those making the trip from further afield for a true taste of Thailand.

Opening hours:
Tuesday — Sunday, 12pm to 3pm (lunch) & 5pm until Late (dinner)

esarnrocket.co.nz