Royal Thai, at 2209 West Montrose is a small storefront, like countless other ethnic restaurants that dot the Chicago area. It’s decor is quite attractive, including a large fish tank. I suppose I should say aquarium because these are fish meant to watch, not consume.
If you are familiar with Thai food, you already know the drill, and no doubt have your favorites. If you are a newcomer to this complex, but easy to like Southeast Asian cuisine, the menu is easy to navigate.
You could start with choices that you might recognize from a favorite Chinese restaurant. But, do yourself a favor and think outside the box. For example, fried tofu is so delicately simple and mild. These deep fried cubes are crusted golden brown.
Dip them in peanut, or perhaps cucumber sauce to your liking. Next, try either of two style dumplings, or both for that matter. Steamed pot sticker dumplings come six to the order with either chicken or vegetable fillings. Shumai draw on Chinese influence and are either steamed or deep fried and come with sweetened soy sauce. We like the pot stickers, if only because of their home made quality.
There are several styles of egg rolls or more delicate spring rolls, even a couple of tempura choices. Other selections include Satay, grilled chicken on skewers with some of the tastiest peanut sauce I’ve found in any of Chicago’s storefront Thai eateries.As for entrees, be sure to taste at least one noodle dish. Our favorites Pud Thai and pad See Eiw get delicious Royal Thai treatment. There are a handful of seafood selections, including a curry.
If curry’s put you off because of spices and peppers, the kitchen will hold back a tad on the seasonings. Either way, they are delicious.
Even simple fried rice has a luxuriously rich quality. And, for dessert, Thai custard is a favorite, but there are several other choices. Expect to spend about $30 a couple plus tax and tip.
Royal Thai is at 2209 West Montrose, just West of Lincoln Avenue and has a K/RATING of 19/20.
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