(jaithairestaurant.com) – Fremont
How I heard of this place: A group of us late-night-diners found Jai Thai to be one of the most enjoyable and delicious after-hours eateries on the north end of town. It has been about two years since I last visited Jai Thai and was pleased that it was suggested by Katy this evening.
Type of cuisine: A culinary journey through various regions of Thailand, using fresh ingredients in an exciting, yet balanced way. Designed to be eaten family style, portions are presented to the center of the table with large spoons and plates at each setting.
Ambiance: A large, but portioned, dimly lit space invites patrons into a mini Thai museum of artifacts, batiks and wooden ornaments. The red-orange walls, dark and sturdy wooden furniture, as well as the wooden beams and posts throughout the space complements the feel of the establishment, the music and the detailed decor (including the wooden beaded curtain separating the restaurant from the restrooms).
What I ordered: Between the eight of us, there were four dishes and plenty of food! One order of Phad Kee Mao or Drunken Noodles ($10.50) came with fresh, wide, wok-fried rice noodles, broccoli, egg, mushrooms, cabbage, carrot, onion, bell peppers and our choice of beef in black soy sauce with hints of basil and chili. Ginger beef ($9.95) was also enjoyed and consisted of stir-fried ginger with white onion and green onion, bell pepper and mushrooms served in a black bean sauce. The third dish at the table was the salmon curry ($12.95) with fresh, tender salmon, pineapple and sweet basil in red curry. The fourth entree enjoyed came on a steaming, sizzling platter: the chef’s special Phad Cha Seafood ($13.95) including an assorted combination of prawns, scallop and calamari with onion, mushrooms, green beans, bell peppers, sweet basil, and galanga root. White and brown rice bowls were also ordered to complement the two-star dishes.
What I loved: It was a hard decision and the table had mixed reviews. One most enjoyed the curry, while another preferred the phad kee mao. A third had a hard time deciding between three dishes (not including the curry). The spiciness of the fresh peppercorn in the seafood dish was delectable, the ginger beef flavorful and robust and the sweetness of the beef phad kee mao perfect. The curry warm and creamy, and the salmon tender, soft and light.
Why I loved it: The menu has changed, the large, flat-screen television sets looping a J. Lo concert a thing of the past, but the food still tasty and the service friendly and sweet.
Cost: Low to average ($10-$15 per dinner entree)