Lo Sang at IKEA Thailand: A Malaysian Expat’s Review
As an expat in Bangkok, I often feel that brands here miss a golden opportunity with “expat marketing.” I rarely feel directly targeted by local campaigns, so when a brand actually acknowledges my cultural roots, I take notice.
Recently, I made my occasional “pilgrimage” to Central Westgate. It’s a bit of a trek, but the MRT Purple Line (interchanging from the Blue Line at Tao Poon) makes it manageable. My destination is always a two-for-one: IKEA and Decathlon.
The CNY Menu Surprise
Ikea Thailand Chinese New Year menu – lohei salad
My husband knows that the IKEA Swedish Restaurant is my go-to spot at Westgate. This visit, I spotted a Yee Sang (Lo Sang) Salad for 188 THB on their limited-time CNY menu (available 1–28 February).
In Thailand, finding a single-serving portion of Lo Hei is nearly impossible—most Malaysian or Singaporean restaurants only offer it in large, group-sized platters. Seeing a “solo” version was too intriguing to pass up.
The Verdict:
Ikea Thailand Chinese New Year menu – lohei salad
Ikea Thailand Chinese New Year menu – lohei salad
- The Taste: Honestly? It didn’t quite pass the taste test. The flavors were a bit off from the authentic, zesty crunch I’m used to back home.
- The Intention: A+ for effort! IKEA even provided chopsticks for the salad to facilitate the “tossing” tradition. I loved the attention to detail, even though I ultimately opted for a fork and spoon and skipped the solo tossing! I hope they bring it back next year with a refined recipe.
The IKEA “Horse” Year & Treats
True to the Year of the Horse (2026), they were serving horse-shaped chicken sausages (38 THB)—a cute, if slightly literal, nod to the zodiac!
I was also on the lookout for traditional pineapple tarts, but they offered an Orange Tart instead (48 THB for 2 pieces). It didn’t look particularly appetizing, so I skipped it. I also noticed a Steamed Salmon with Soy Sauce (228 THB); it’s not a combination I’d usually prepare myself, so perhaps I’ll give it a try next time.
Interestingly, compared to IKEA Malaysia, the menu there is much more extensive, but they didn’t offer a Yee Sang salad. It makes sense—trying to sell a pre-packaged Lo Hei in Malaysia would be a brave move given the abundance of authentic versions available everywhere else!
A Little Bonus
A nice surprise happened at the checkout: the cashier handed me a roll of CNY wrapping paper. I didn’t see anyone else with one, so it may have been a gift for ordering from the festive menu. Another pleasant surprise? The cashier spoke English this trip, which made the experience even smoother.
📍 QUICK INFO
- Location: IKEA Swedish Restaurant, Central Westgate.
- How to get there: Take the MRT Blue Line to Tao Poon, then switch to the Purple Line to MRT Talad Bang Yai (PP02).
- Cost: 55 THB (approx. 37 mins from MRT Lat Phrao).
- CNY Menu Dates: 1–28 February 2026.
