To date, traditional Thai is one of my favorite cuisines, but I do enjoy fusion or modern versions of all types of food. Sometimes, there’s nothing like a modern twist on an old recipe. And yes, as the name implies, you’re there to eat Thai food. Eathai (@eathai_iceny) in Delray Beach was started by Sopanut Sopochana of Thailand, who moved to The Bronx at age 14. He worked as a General Manager at Spice, one of my favorite restaurants in Manhattan. Believe it or not, it’s here where I found the best fried calamari in Florida.
Usually, chefs make fried calamari greasy, other times so greasy you get a stomachache, but these were dry–not Sahara dry–but a good dry, if that makes sense. They were dusted and crusted in semolina powder, and the ginger-avocado dipping sauce was the perfect compliment. Presenting them in a mini frying basket was a cool touch, and yes, I did squeeze some lime on them.
Must-Try Lamb Satay with Peanut Sauce
Plenty of sunlight shone through the window, adding to the atmosphere. I was chatted up by a few of the other patrons, with whom I had a great chat about food and travel. I had no idea my lamb satay skewers with peanut sauce [see below] would be such a great conversation starter! Tender lamb, marinated in… something great obviously, with cucumber relish and smooth, creamy homemade peanut sauce (a must-try!) and three triangular slices of Texas toast, all served on a custom-made wooden board.
Other Delights
Eathai’s spicy beef salad is different, in that the flank steak is poached instead of grilled. Although I do prefer it grilled, it was still good, but a little chewy. All of the ingredients were fresh. Make sure to order one spice level below what you usually do. I ordered mine medium spicy, but it tasted medium-very spicy. I made sure to combat the spiciness with a refreshingly milky Thai iced tea. Perfect on a hot day.
The interior is warm and inviting, featuring woody, earth tones, combining well with the beige, communal-style tables (benches are separate, though). These tables are great for larger groups, and you’re prone to start conversations with adjoining parties if seated here.
The bar is simple, understated and spacious. I loved the whole unpretentious vibe to it, and the neon “Eathai” sign really drew me in, just like the food. Also, when you get up from your table to go to the bathroom, make sure not to hit your head on the overhanging light like I did. One of the lights went out. Sorry about the bulb, guys!
The white wall next to the entrance features a painting of a beautiful vintage pin-up model and a flamingo, and 80’s and 90’s Thai movie posters adorn the walls leading up to the bathroom.
My Closing Thoughts
The head chef/owner walked around and asked how the food was, and I of course told him it was great, and we chatted for a bit. It was nice how the chef walked around, instead of just the servers. I thought it was pretty cool.
Between the time-honored recipes, the vintage pin-up girl painting, the vintage Thai movie posters and the modern interior and modern cuisine, Eathai strikes the perfect balance between traditional and new.
Where to find Eathai
Eathai
1832 S. Federal Highway
Delray Beach, FL 33483
(561) 270-3156
eathaiflorida.com