X

Thai cuisine that caters to you

Columns Veg'n Out

July 19, 2015

Story By: Andy Beth Miller | Photos by: Lawrence Tabudlo

When one first thinks of catering, visions of pre-ordering endless pupu platters and hosting parties come to mind. But at one local eatery, the concept of catering has a whole new meaning. In a world where everyone wants to “have it your way,” Pearl City’s Thai Lao Restaurant knows the importance of offering an eclectic menu with customizable options for all.

“There truly is something for everyone here,” says co-owner Victor Chaleunxay. “It’s important to us that people know they can come here and we can provide substitutes and make most dishes work for all diets.”

Rare and most welcomed, such an accommodating attitude is like a burst of bright summer sunshine, especially for herbivores. And you know what’s also fresh? These Thai temptations:

For lighter fare, Vegetarian Spring Rolls ($9.95) — featuring seven bundles of crisped bliss served alongside noodles, fresh lettuce leaves and dipping sauce — is a perfect pick. The important thing to note with this, and all of Thai Lao’s dishes, is that the secret really is in the sauce. According to Chaleunxay, “The majority of our dishes may be catered to accommodate vegans and vegetarians … we have a special sauce we can substitute for just about any dish; you simply need to specify when ordering, or else it will come with the standard oyster sauce.”

Mix things up with Mixed Vegetable Stir-fry ($9.95), a vitamin-infused bouquet of seasonal vegetables, garlic and healthy helpings of tofu (which Chaleunxay assures also can be omitted, should customers wish). Or stick to the classics like Yellow Curry ($9.95), a spicy and earthy selection to savor, served with assorted vegetables and tofu (also optional).

And for an extra dose of nutrition, Chaleunxay suggests adding a side of brown rice for $2 (white jasmine and sticky also are available).

So the next time you are heading out for a night on the town and want to treat yourself to some authentic eats, pop on over to Pearl City Business Plaza and sample some of Thai Lao’s cuisine — made especially for you, and you, and you.

Thai Lao Restaurant

Pearl City Business Plaza
803 Kamehameha Hwy. No. 203, Pearl City
456-8088
Daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Pearl City, HI 96782

Ilima Awards
Hawaii's Best