Fortitude Valley’s LONgTIME, a popular Thai restaurant, has evolved into sAme sAme. From its former home in Ann Street, the new foodie spot, which opened in early November, has relocated to the dining precinct on Ada Lane, where its owners hope it will live on with much success as its predecessor.
As they say, it is “same same but different” as the new restaurant‘s core menu pretty much covers the very items served at the old place, such as the lobsters, grilled chicken in lemongrass, crispy pork belly, char-grilled beef short ribs, and curries with coconut and turmeric. However, LONgTIME’s successor will be serving up something new on the menu as well, including some seasonal recipes.
The new restaurant’s open kitchen with a charcoal fire pit is two times bigger than Longtime’s, providing the staff, led by head chef Ben Bertei, with more flexibility to work, operate and cook lighter meals. Unlike LONgTIME, this new foodie spot is serving lunch on selected days so visitors have more options to keep coming back.
Seating is 20 seats fewer than the old digs but the ambience is brighter and lighter with its neutral colour scheme. There’s also a long communal table that works as the restaurant’s centrepiece.
However, unlike LONgTIME, there will be no long queues by the back alley whilst guests wait for a table to clear. Instead, diners can head upstairs at LOS (Land of Smiles), where there’s a comfortable 45-seater bar, to enjoy some drinks before meals. LOS boasts of a long drink list, including tequila, and it’s open until 12 midnight.
sAme sAme is open for dinner from Tuesday through Thursday whilst lunch and dinner are served from Friday through Sunday. Meanwhile, LONgTIME will now be used as an events place for group functions.
“Amazing dinner and service. Took the banquet with matched wines and was blown away. Everything spot on, with the bug curry being out of this world.”
~ Clinton McGregor, Google Review
“Excellent evolution of a staple Brisbane venue.”
~ Jason Roesler, Facebook