There is something captivating about Taste of Thai’s serene ambience. Even when the restaurant is full, there is a graciousness about it that I find very appealing. The walls, which are prettily covered by dark wood paneling, lend a sophisticated edge, and the servers, bedecked in traditional Thai garb, help to make diners feel as if they have been transported to a far more exotic location. A favorite of Sacramento’s Thai food-loving population, the restaurant serves up fresh, lively-flavored dishes that seem to stand up well even if they’re purchased “to go” and served up miles from the restaurant. If you’re seeking a mood-lifter, plunge into the bowl of tom yum soup, one of the best versions of this traditional soup we’ve found in the region. Redolent with the aromas of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, the tangy, complex soup will clear your nasal passages and add a skip to your step. Noodle dishes are another specialty of Taste of Thai—don’t miss the sensational pad gai, wide, silky noodles tossed with bits of chicken, egg, green onion and chopped Napa cabbage. The restaurant’s “Evil Jungle” noodles are another winner—tender rice noodles are draped over a bed of steamed vegetables and drenched with red curry sauce and your choice of meat. If your Thai food preferences run to stir-fried items, try the kitchen’s delectable pad him ma parn, tofu or a choice of meat stir-fried with delicate bamboo shoots, cashew nuts, tiny baby corn, and bell pepper strips. Taste of Thai’s service is efficient and warm, and prices are reasonable enough to warrant ordering an extra dish, in case you can’t decide between several selections. — Kira O'Donnell

Insider tip: Taste of Thai has two other locations: One is on Galleria Boulevard in Roseville, the other is on Arena Boulevard in Sacramento.

Reservations: Recommended for parties of 5 or more

Payment methods: AmEx, MasterCard, Visa

Alcohol: Wine and beer

Corkage fee: No corkage fee



Hours: Open daily: Lunch 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.; Dinner 2:30 p.m.–10 p.m.