There has been an "amazing reaction" to the new Thai food menu at a popular Watford pub, its owner has said.

The Dome Bar in St Albans Road recently reopened post-refurb, serving up fragrant and spicy dishes for the first time since its kitchen closed around 18 months ago.

It is being provided by the Real Thai Cooking company, which offers spicy soups, aromatic curries and the classic Pad Thai among other favourites.

The business's owner Nichapa Thosuanjit, who goes by the name Apple, said the customers' reaction has been “very, very good”, and recalled how one table ordered dinner before requesting the same order again to take home.

Watford Observer: Thai-national Apple set up her home-cooking and catering business around 12 years ago.Thai-national Apple set up her home-cooking and catering business around 12 years ago. (Image: Newsquest)

The 41-year-old was born in Thailand and moved to the UK in 2008, living in various towns before she settled in west Watford with her partner.

She added: “I’ve lived in this area for almost four years so I feel like I want to bring something to the local community and give them the opportunity to try great food.”

Watford Observer: The Real Thai Cooking team.The Real Thai Cooking team. (Image: Apple Nichapa)

The Dome Bar manager, Stuart, who has run the venue for 14 years, said the initial reception had been “amazing” with a busy first two weeks of trading.

Watford Observer: The pub closed for six days in April for the bar to be refurbished.The pub closed for six days in April for the bar to be refurbished. (Image: Newsquest)He added: “All of the food is amazing, I know I would big it up myself anyway but I’ve been to Thailand a few times and the food is on point.

“Everyone seems to be loving the food, I’ve had zero complaints!”

Watford Observer: Inside the refurbished Dome Bar in St Albans Road.Inside the refurbished Dome Bar in St Albans Road. (Image: Apple Nichapa)Stuart said that trade had dipped slightly after its previous Thai kitchen closed 18 months ago, but that he was happy to see food return to the menu.

The Dome Bar was shut from April 6 to 12 while the venue was refurbished, including a granite bar top and new tiling around the bar.

The pub currently offers a two-course lunch menu for £11.99 from 12 to 2.30pm Wednesday to Friday, as well as a full dinner menu in the evenings.

Having previously worked in hotels and bars, Apple started offering home-cooking classes and catering services around 12 years ago, but this is the first time the business has had a permanent home.

She has been joined in this new venture by restaurant consultant Prathin Siriphala and, Tinnakorn Chooseang, owner of the Siam Niyom Thai restaurant in nearby Northwood.