Wok On at Funky Wok
Funky by name and funky by nature, Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer discovers a destination that showcases fresh, bold, modern Thai and Pan-Asian flavours at their very best.
Stepping inside Funky Wok, it’s clear that ‘funky’ is a brand philosophy, not just a name. This spacious, creatively decorated restaurant and bar offers something for everyone: an atmospheric fine dining space; a colourful bar area; a poolside dining section with relaxed resort vibes; and a casual alfresco courtyard that’s perfect for dining with younger family members.
Nestled beside the BreakFree Beach Resort in stunning Alexandra Headland, Funky Wok was brought to life six months ago by passionate Thai husband-and-wife team Pukrit ‘Oat’ Srithingzai and Nanthaphon ‘Pui’ Petwiwat. With a 20-year history of owning successful restaurants and cafés (they still own an iconic Thai restaurant in northern New South Wales and are also the people behind retro Buderim café Vandy’s Garage), the pair bring serious hospitality credentials.
The funky vibe of Funky Wok’s interior – think patterned tiles, statement lighting and plenty of colour – has been designed by the very clever Pui, who’s in charge of all things front-of-house and keeps the restaurant and team running smoothly with her calm and cheerful demeanour.
When it comes to your plate, the creativity is all Oat, who is also the Head Chef and is committed to providing diners with the very best Thai and Pan-Asian flavours, made from fresh, quality ingredients with a whole lot of love.
“Our menu is mostly modern, authentic Thai food but with a Funky Wok twist – more herbs, more colourful ingredients, and creative presentation. The flavour of our food and the quality of our ingredients set us apart,” Oat said. “We always use premium Wagyu beef instead of standard beef, and all our meat is marinated and cooked in a sous vide rather than just being sliced and added to dishes; we think that extra effort shines through in the flavours.”
Some of the standout dishes on the menu include the moreish Sticky Beef Ribs with chilli jam, sprout-and-herb salad and crispy shallots; the warming Mild Curry of Coconut Grilled Chicken with kipfler potatoes, pineapple and peanuts; and the aromatic Royal Red Curry Boneless Roasted Duck with cucumber, sunflower sprouts, greens and herbs.
And of course, let’s not forget the flavoursome Pad Thai – a memorable version of this classic dish made with chicken, rice noodles, tamarind, sprouts, and a side of lime and chilli – which has cemented its status as a crowd favourite.
Offering an elegant, elevated experience, the restaurant is table-service throughout, with all dishes designed for sharing. Banquets are available for groups of four or more from just $59 per person – and on weekends, diners of two or more can enjoy the Chef’s Special Banquet (available Saturday lunchtime and all day Sunday for just $39 per person), where Oat serves up a surprise selection of his favourite dishes to make way for new produce.
“It’s always delicious, but we mix it up depending on what ingredients we have,” Oat said. “It’s a really fun and great-value way to experience our food.”
Everything is made from scratch in-house by Oat and his team of Thai chefs, and it’s clear that doing things to the highest standard brings him great joy.
“My kitchen is always sparkling clean, and I personally make sure every dish that goes out to our diners is up to scratch,” he explained. “I just love cooking and have built a great team.
“I try to foster a positive atmosphere in the kitchen – everyone is always happy to come to work, and that makes me happy.”
For Pui, the highlight since opening has been making customers happy through food.
“All our diners have been so supportive of our offering – we’ve had great feedback, and people have been returning time and time again, which is lovely to see,” she said.
As the community has supported them, Pui and Oat have given back by supporting the local Surf Lifesaving Club and other causes through the donation of gift vouchers.
“We live nearby, and we love being an active part of this area,” Pui said. “We’re happy to give back via the organisations who help make it a better place.”
Looking to throw a funky bash? You’ve found your perfect party backdrop!
Funky Wok’s four distinct areas can be hired for events such as anniversaries, engagements, family parties and end-of-year soirées – choose your desired vibe (poolside, bar, restaurant or courtyard?) and they’ll take care of the rest.
As someone with fond food-related memories of travelling in Thailand, I’m always thrilled to discover fresh, flavoursome, authentic Thai cuisine right here in Australia. Khàp khun khâ (thank you), Pui and Oat, for bringing this funky and fabulous offering to our sunny shores!
Chef’s Special Banquet
Enjoy a surprise selection of favourite dishes chosen by the Head Chef. Every Saturday, 12-2.30pm and all day Sunday. $39pp. Minimum 2 people.
Visit funkywok.com.au for the menu, to order takeaway, book a table or for function enquiries.
