First, you should know I struggled whether to even include Lotus of Siam on my blog. Not because it's not G-worthy, but mainly because it's already difficult enough to get a table here on a busy night. I realize many of you have long been cued-in to this Las Vegas gem... but for all you first "Thai-mers" out there, here goes:
Lotus of Siam is an unassuming, family-owned, Thai food restaurant, hidden (I say hidden but really a million people know where it is) in a strip mall off Sahara and Maryland Parkway. Disregard whatever first-impression you may have. This place is all about the food. They've received just about every culinary accolade out there. Including a favorable review by the New York Times. They are Zagat rated. Gourmet Magazine even voted it "Best Thai Restaurant in the Country" once. It also happens to be a favorite pick of a number of celebrities like, Drew Barrymore and Billy Joel.
At this point I should give credit to my colleague, reporter Steve Crupi, who introduced me to Lotus several years ago. Steve has been to Thailand many times and says the Thai food at Lotus rivals any Thai meal he's actually had in Thailand. I believe him.
Saipin Chutima is the chef. On occasion she steps out of the kitchen to chat with guests. If you ever see her make sure to ask what she recommends for the evening. There are daily specials that aren't always on the regular menu. On the weekends you'll want to make a reservation because usually there's a line to get in. Be advised, if you're just going to order Pad Thai noodles and Chicken Sa-Tay... they're good, but those aren't the items that make Lotus stand out from the rest.
Okay, here's what I suggest: Make your first visit to Lotus on a weeknight when they're not as busy. Go with a group so you can sample many dishes. Ask for Tony, he's one of the waiters. He's very helpful and will explain menu items and make recommendations.
If you are a first "Thai-mer" you may want to try the Yellow Curry with Chicken. They rate their spiciness from 1 to 10, with 6 being extremely hot for most people. I like my meals spicy but I'd go mild to start, unless you want to end up like Ben Stiller in "Along Came Polly". Another good starter is the Nua Sao Renu, otherwise known as Number 56. It's a sliced charbroiled beef dish with a tamarind sauce. A good appetizer for beginners is the Fried Wontons, also with a savory sauce.
If you're an old "Thai-mer" try choosing items from the Northern Thai menu. Very unique and satisfying. The Tom Yum Kung and Tom Yum Kai soups are both fantastic. I also enjoy Salmon Panang. Panang is a Congnac and Coconut Milk-based Curry Sauce. The Drunken Noodle Seafood is also very good. My absolute favorite though, which also happens to be the favorite of Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman (I know because I asked), is the Thai-Basil Crispy Duck. I've never had anything else like it anywhere.
Finally, don't let a trip to Lotus pass without ordering desert. The platter is the best way to go. It's a combination Fried Plantains or Fresh-cut Mangoes, with Sweet Sticky Rice... and a scoop of the best Coconut Ice Cream you've ever had.
Lotus of Siam is an unassuming, family-owned, Thai food restaurant, hidden (I say hidden but really a million people know where it is) in a strip mall off Sahara and Maryland Parkway. Disregard whatever first-impression you may have. This place is all about the food. They've received just about every culinary accolade out there. Including a favorable review by the New York Times. They are Zagat rated. Gourmet Magazine even voted it "Best Thai Restaurant in the Country" once. It also happens to be a favorite pick of a number of celebrities like, Drew Barrymore and Billy Joel.
At this point I should give credit to my colleague, reporter Steve Crupi, who introduced me to Lotus several years ago. Steve has been to Thailand many times and says the Thai food at Lotus rivals any Thai meal he's actually had in Thailand. I believe him.
Saipin Chutima is the chef. On occasion she steps out of the kitchen to chat with guests. If you ever see her make sure to ask what she recommends for the evening. There are daily specials that aren't always on the regular menu. On the weekends you'll want to make a reservation because usually there's a line to get in. Be advised, if you're just going to order Pad Thai noodles and Chicken Sa-Tay... they're good, but those aren't the items that make Lotus stand out from the rest.
Okay, here's what I suggest: Make your first visit to Lotus on a weeknight when they're not as busy. Go with a group so you can sample many dishes. Ask for Tony, he's one of the waiters. He's very helpful and will explain menu items and make recommendations.
If you are a first "Thai-mer" you may want to try the Yellow Curry with Chicken. They rate their spiciness from 1 to 10, with 6 being extremely hot for most people. I like my meals spicy but I'd go mild to start, unless you want to end up like Ben Stiller in "Along Came Polly". Another good starter is the Nua Sao Renu, otherwise known as Number 56. It's a sliced charbroiled beef dish with a tamarind sauce. A good appetizer for beginners is the Fried Wontons, also with a savory sauce.
If you're an old "Thai-mer" try choosing items from the Northern Thai menu. Very unique and satisfying. The Tom Yum Kung and Tom Yum Kai soups are both fantastic. I also enjoy Salmon Panang. Panang is a Congnac and Coconut Milk-based Curry Sauce. The Drunken Noodle Seafood is also very good. My absolute favorite though, which also happens to be the favorite of Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman (I know because I asked), is the Thai-Basil Crispy Duck. I've never had anything else like it anywhere.
Finally, don't let a trip to Lotus pass without ordering desert. The platter is the best way to go. It's a combination Fried Plantains or Fresh-cut Mangoes, with Sweet Sticky Rice... and a scoop of the best Coconut Ice Cream you've ever had.
3 comments:
Someday G I will quit being the pod-snob and accompany you and Crup to Lotus.
The yellow curry with chicken sounds too good to pass up.
Hey G. Joe here. It was Ben Stiller in "Along Came Polly." I love the Lotus. Thanks to you and Crupi.
Hey Uncle G.
Awesome food. You didn't exaggerate. I've been there three times and this place definitely sets the standard.
Thanks for the tip!
James B.
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