I remember my first taste of Basil Chicken, and since then I’ve been hooked on the spicy dishes of Thai cuisine. Whether you’re a fan already or looking to expand the boundaries of your palate, head to one of these savory Dallas eateries for a trip to the Far East.
Thai Star
Addison’s Thai Star has all the components for a perfect restaurant: a serene, cozy ambiance complete with banquettes dotted with plush pillows, grade-A Thai cuisine, and an inviting husband and wife team who take care of you as if you’re eating at their own abode. For starters, try the steamed veggie or shrimp and pork dumplings, followed by the Eight Angels (a sweet pork and onion dish) or a chicken satay or curry. It’s BYOB, so if you forgot your vino, just ask the owner for some of her homemade lemongrass tea. Finish up with some complimentary mango sorbet, and if you’re lucky you can then kick back and listen to some accoustic music in their art cafe (usually a weekend event.)
Thai Star, 14833 Midway Rd., 972.239.6334, www.thaistar.com
Best Thai
It’s all in the name. With seven locations in the metroplex, Best Thai never compromises quality or superior craftsmanship in their cuisine. The owner was trained at the revered five-star Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Bangkok, and now she and her sister run the business. Go for the Golden Crab Roll, shrimp and crab meat rolled in tofu, and I love the sweetness of the pineapple curry. Don’t forget dessert, with options like the green tea or coconut ice creams.
Best Thai, 5959 Royal Lane, Suite 540, 214.373.8113, www.bestthai.com
Thai Tanee Cafe
Find all your fave Thai dishes and more at this newly redecorated spot across from Valley View Mall. If you’re a seafood fan you are in luck: try the Volcano Shrimp for a spicy kick, or the Red Snapper in a Three-Flavored Sauce with jasmine rice. On a lighter note, the Pad Woon Sen (Glass Noodle) is a low-carb option tossed in the house special sauce, with your choice of meat and crisp veggies.
Thai Tanee Cafe, 5635 Alpha Road, 972.960.1313, www.thaitaneecafe.com
Royal Thai
For over 15 years, Royal Thai has been serving loyal partron of Dallas in their spacious, elegant dining room. Venturing outside the traditional sidewalk cafe style, Royal has a respectable wine list and excellent service. Of course, if you’re on your lunch hour you can always skip the Chardonnay and go for the Thai iced tea, and then sample what has become known as the best pad thai in town. Or, try the Tiger Tears, flank steak tossed in special spices, and the Golden Sacks, an appetizer of crispy little balls of chicken and potato perfection.
Royal Thai, 5500 Greenville Avenue, 214.691.3555, www.royalthaitexas.com
Asian Mint
Craving some sushi with your curry? Asian Mint is the epitome of fusion, with dishes like steamed or crispy sea bass or yellow curry fried rice served alongside a couple spicy tuna rolls, you’ll barely make room for dessert. Do try, though: their Green Tea Cake is unbelievable.
Asian Mint, 11617 N. Central Expressway, Suite 135, 214.363.6655, www.asianmint.com
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