Naamyaa café, Islington, London
In the last year several Asian and Oriental restaurant operators reported the pressure immigration laws and possible regulation changes were having on their businesses - on 15 November legendary restaurateur Alan Yau launched his newest concept, inspired partly to deal with the difficult operating climate.
All-day café concept Naamyaa, opened with definite Thai influences although Yau was keen to stress the restaurant would reflect the increasing diversity of cuisine available in Bangkok.
"I simply want to do something more accessible," said Yau. "The interior of Busaba is very ethnic and dark, it’s a night time orientated offering. Naamyaa will be lighter; it’s a café rather than a restaurant. Busaba is a pure Thai experience, Naamyaa will be more eclectic."