Giggling Squid, a Thai restaurant in Harpenden, has launched a new menu and "Spring Sips" cocktail range.
The eatery, on Amenbury Lane, was founded by husband and wife team Andy and Pranee Laurillard.
Pranee grew up on the banks of the Mekong River, picking ingredients nearby. She has now brought these flavours to the UK and has 49 branches across the country.
The Herts Advertiser reporter Pearce Bates went along to sample the food that Giggling Squid had to offer.
Upon entering the restaurant, we were hit with a calm serenity and welcoming atmosphere.
The eatery was busy, but not loud and the tables around us appeared to be enjoying their experience.
As relative newcomers to Thai food, we were initially unsure on what to order. However, Giggling Squid's friendly staff soon pointed us in the direction of their signature salt and pepper squid for starters, and gave recommendations on what to order for our mains.
Our waitress was personable throughout the evening, and appeared genuinely interested in the lives of the customers she served.
Firstly, we tried a 'Lychee Angel' mocktail, which was very sweet but enjoyable. For starters, pork dumplings and chicken satay sticks accompanied the squid.
Each dish was presented in a traditional yet stylish manner, and were bursting with flavour. The inclusion of salad to each dish was a refreshing and welcome addition.
Moving on to the main course, we ordered the salmon paneang and vegetable pad thai, with a roti and noodles to share.
The salmon had a sweet and slightly spicy taste, and was served with broccoli and peppers.
The vegetable pad thai, meanwhile, was packed with noodles and greenery, featuring a wide range of textures.
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The roti came warm and fresh, while a very generous serving of black pepper noodles was very filling but enjoyable nonetheless.
We left Giggling Squid feeling very full but pleased with both the food and customer service we received.
Despite the restaurant being one of a large chain of eateries, we were pleasantly surprised by the personality and character of the Harpenden branch.
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