I might possibly be the biggest fan of downtown Lincoln’s Blue Orchid Restaurant. I have tried every dish on the menu at least three times, but can’t seem to get enough of the Panang Curry with salmon! I figure this qualifies me as a big fan of Thai cuisine. However, knowing their version of Thai cuisine has significant American influence, I sent myself on a mission to find Lincoln’s most authentic Thai food to test my true loyalty.
My first experience of Lincoln’s authentic Thai cuisine begins at Thai Garden, located on 13th Street, between P and Q streets. It has an unpretentious ambiance, reflecting its quiet location just off the beaten path of “O” Street. On my Thursday night visit with my friend and sister, it definitely proved to be a good sign that the place was full.
We had all heard nothing but great things about their Pad Thai dish, but we wanted to try something different. We started with the Fresh Roll, Spring Roll, and Crab Ragoon appetizers. The Crab Ragoon and Spring Roll were both lightly fried and served with a sweet and sour sauce. They were both delicious, but I especially loved the Fresh Roll, filled with crabmeat, rice noodles and a side of peanut dipping sauce.
Then we moved to the extensive list of entrees. The menu is organized by the different types of meat, which made it was easier to narrow down our decision. We decided on the Spicy Tom Gai soup and also the Vegetables and Chicken dish. My friend Sarah ordered the Ginger Chicken. Our meals all came with a large bowl of white rice, which I especially appreciated because I usually have to ask for more. The presentation of the soup might have been my favorite part of the meal! It was served in a large donut-shaped metal bowl with a flame sprouting through the center like a fountain. Its coconut milk base was loaded with veggies, chicken, rice and a spicy flavor that managed to awaken every single taste bud in my mouth. I loved it! The spicy kick and consistency of the soup were just right. The flavor wasn’t too overwhelming or heavy. I would absolutely order it again.
The Vegetables and Chicken dish had a light and mild sauce that complemented the tender vegetables and chicken. The Ginger Chicken also came in a light sauce with a slightly spicier kick. I enjoyed each dish very much and appreciated the generous portions for such an affordable price. I walked away feeling healthy and satisfied. I am without a doubt a true fan of Thai cuisine. Stay tuned for my next Thai adventure in Lincoln, Nebraska!
How would you compare this to Blue Orchid? And would you go back, or try another Thai restaurant first? Your pictures look like the average dishes. Do the flavors actually stand out? Would you recommend this restaurant to Katy?
ReplyDeleteBlue Orchid is much more "americanized" but yes I would go back, and definitely with Katy. I am sure she would pick out something crazy for us to try. I know she likes to try the tofu dishes so that she can really taste the flavor of the sauces without them tasting like chicken or whatever meat might be in them.
ReplyDeleteI have another Thai Restaurant that I am planning on trying soon, so I will test that before I head back. I wouldn't consider these "average" dishes but I am not sure what would be considered an average Thai dish. Each dish was uniquely different. The soup in particular had quite a bite to it! We will head there soon, I think you will like it. I am interested to see how you will like it compared to the Korean Restaurant our family likes...
Oh, now there is another idea for one of our next spots!