Chanpha offers the best cost-performance lunch we know of in Yokohama, and that’s saying a lot because there are so many places serving delicious food for good value. An affordable Thai buffet, though, is difficult to beat, especially when the quality is so high and the interior so attractive and comfortable. Throw in the convenience of its Bashamichi location and it’s easy to understand why Chanpha is popular.
The expansive buffet that makes its lunch a hit is just ¥1030 during weekdays and ¥1280 on weekends and holidays. All kids under the age of twelve are just ¥600. There are over twenty items on the buffet spanning from salads to desserts. Thai food probably makes everyone think of tom yum soup, and that’s certainly on the buffet– and of course delicious curry, too, including green, red and yellow varieties. It’s served directly from the open kitchen behind the bar, fresh and wonderfully spicy. Side dishes help add some flavor and texture diversity to your meal, with selections like grilled chicken, steamed duck, fried wonton and fried pork dumplings. The fried harumaki rolls are crunchy and addictive. Definitely save room for dessert, as the tapioca is great (we’ll sometimes have two cups). The buffet also includes soft drinks.
Like many establishments, dinner prices are more expensive but still quite affordable given what you get. There is a weekend and holiday buffet for just ¥1990 for two hours. On weekdays, guests can order all they want from the menu for two hours for only ¥2160 (elementary school kids are ¥1300). Additionally, there is an all-you-can-drink option for ¥1500 for two hours. It features fifteen beverages, including Heartland beer, cocktails and soft drinks.
Seating is either at comfortable tables or semi-booths. An open kitchen adds to the overall spacious feel of the interior, where there’s often a buzz in the air from guests in a good mood–excellent food will do that.