Plenary Khao Kho

It was my first time here. The food was tasty and the atmosphere pleasant, but the service was really poor and needs work. There was just one staff member handling around six tables. Food didn't take an especially long or short time, but drinks and basic things were a different story. I ordered water, soft drinks, and ice with the food. The water and glasses took a long time, so I had to ask for the ice. Even after some food and rice came, there were no plates or cutlery. I waited, then had to ask for plates. The Coke I ordered still hadn't arrived after I'd been eating for a while. When I mentioned it, they brought a large bottle instead of the can I had ordered. The restaurant really needs to improve its service.

The restaurant is roomy, comfortable, and breezy, and the food came quickly. Everything was clean and delicious. I especially liked the tom yum goong with young coconut and large prawns, plus the crispy shrimp salad with pomelo dressing, which was perfectly balanced. The cabbage stir-fried with fish sauce stayed crisp and wasn't too salty. The deep-fried pork belly was crispy too, though its sweet-and-sour dipping sauce could have been spicier. All in all, it was a tasty meal.

There are both a café and a restaurant on the grounds, in separate spaces. The area is spacious, with a big pond where you can relax, and the bamboo restaurant has a stylish, airy interior. Food was good overall and the prices weren't too high. The service stood out. There were only about three tables occupied when I visited, and the male staff member was enthusiastic and attentive. He didn't get annoyed when people called him or asked for things.

Kids will love the animals and the water slide. After eating, you can walk around and watch the animals playing. The food is delicious, and it's a nice place to stay and eat in a pleasant atmosphere. I'd recommend stopping here on the way back from Khao Kho.