This polite and pleasing split-level eatery has been skilfully blending the spices of south-east Asia here in Hawthorn East for a decade. Not much has changed,and that's the way the locals like it. The formal,restrained decor,with thin linen tablecloths,timber floors and subtle lighting,makes an unobtrusive setting - perfect for the head-turning presentation of some dishes. The hor mok talay is a flaming tinfoil parcel of steamed seafood in a delicate red Thai curry mingling coconut milk with kaffir lime and lemongrass. Equally theatrical is a baked clay entree plate of oysters,also alight,each bathed in a sweet ginger broth. Despite the somewhat stiff setting,service is friendly and there's culinary finesse:iceberg lettuce cups of duck sang choy bao,Singapore chilli prawns on the end of a chopstick for dipping in creamy gravy,and grilled eye-fillet with caramelised tamarind sauce - a smoky profound pleasure. It's a happy collision of elements that ensures Okra's enduring popularity.