Paa Dee new Thai spot
I was wondering whether anyone has tried the new Paa Dee on 28th and Burnside. I went last night and felt this place is kind of in the tradition of Pok Pok, trying to do more authentic Thai cuisine. I am no expert altho I have done some thai cooking and went on a foodie tour of thailand so have a little knowledge.
I thought the food good but perhaps a little bland. My experience of Thai food is that it has some very powerful flavors that have to be well balanced to work.
Chicken Wings--not as good as Pok Pok
Eggplant and ground pork salad--good flavors of chili and lime--not spicy enough
Noodle soup w/pork--good altho nothing special
Up side: very generous portions even with the appetizers, nice dinning room atmosphere, attentive friendly service and would go again.
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Delicious! I was there maybe three weeks ago. I was pretty happy with it all. I agree that they are more on the authentic side. I described it as being sort of a middle ground between Pok Pok and a more Americanized place.
I had the scallion dumplings, which were terrific. Good, bold flavor with the right chewiness. I ordered a soup dish of tamarind and prawns. I thought it didn't have enough flavors in the broth and didn't even finish it, but the prawns were tasty, My girlfriend ordered a dish of chicken and cashews that wouldn't have been my thing, but still tasted great.
I was also really happy with the more communal set up of the tables. I think it'd be great to encourage more strangers to dine without the separation of separate seating so much--but some people I'm sure wouldn't like it as much. I agree the service was terrific. Ours was quick, our server was friendly and knew the menu well.
Hoping to go for their happy hour and try more small plates soon.
