Pattaya Thai

A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: Crispy Rice Salad ($11.99 lunch, $12.95 dinner) and Thai Coffee ($3 lunch, $4 dinner)

Thai culture can easily be found throughout local restaurant Pattaya Thai, with patrons getting a first glance of it in the genuine, friendly hospitality shown by owner Ratchanee “Yuri” Senckowske and her staff. Then, as the food arrives, palates are taken to another corner of the world — “The Land of Smiles,” or Thailand, to be exact.

And it’s true, the traditional cuisine, mixed with Laos influences, has diners smiling from ear to ear, as dishes packed with spices, textures and fresh produce create a sensory overload.

Familiar menu items such as Green Papaya Salad, Tom Yum Soup and Evil Curry are popular choices, while lesser-known selections such as Crispy Rice Salad will change your life for the better.

Also, in the spirit of Halloween, the restaurant and bar will be hosting a costume contest Saturday, Oct. 29. There even will be free Thai food from 6 to 9 p.m., so come dressed to win!

Pattaya Thai

708 Queen St., Honolulu
597-9121
Monday-Saturday, 11-2 a.m.; Sunday, 5 p.m.-2 a.m.