We had such a long string of nice weather, I got a little overconfident and just assumed it would all work itself out. I figured everything would clear up and Hubby and I would be enjoying a blissful, romantic picnic. That plan totally failed. After dropping the kids off at their friend’s birthday party, I met Hubby at his work. Thunder was rumbling, along with lightning and on-and-off rain storms. Perfect picnic weather, right?
It was like the old days of dating, pre-20DollarDateNight.
“So, where do you want to go?” followed by “I don’t know, where do you want to go?”
We listed off a bunch of places, but the one we wanted to go to had only a 20% Passport Unlimited discount, rather than the typical 50%. Of course, 20% is better than nothing, but when you’re expecting 50% only to read the fine print and find out it’s only 20%, it ends up being a disappointment. My advice:always read the fine print on coupons and discount cards before arriving!
Our challenge was finding a spot that was close by and would fit into our time frame, along with fitting within the $20 range.
“Let’s just do Thai food. We can always count on Thai restaurants to be good and filling and reasonably priced.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” Hubby agreed.
I flipped through the Entertainment Book and found Thai Bistro a few minutes away in Mill Creek. We had been here twice before and had a great time and loved their food.
Five minutes later we pulled into the parking lot and walked in. We’ve never had to wait to be seated in a Thai food restaurant, even if it’s busy, and this time was no different. The hostess seated us immediately, and also ended up being our waitress.
We told her we were short on time and would be ready to order within two minutes. She was back within that amount of time, and I quickly selected Pad Kee Mao ($10.50) and Hubby ordered Rama Noodles ($10.50) (he’s crazy about those wide Thai noodles). We also ordered a pot of jasmine green tea to drink ($3.50).
Thai Bistro is a little hidden in a strip mall next to Mud Bay pet food store and GNC nutrition in Mill Creek, off Bothell-Everett Highway. We would not have ever found it if we hadn’t spotted them in the Entertainment Book. I appreciate that they put so much work into their decor, which is big on gold, green and warm red hues. The tropical feel mixes with Asian artistic sophistication. Even the ceiling is decorated with hanging elaborate wood planks, painted like tapestries. They didn’t take any shortcuts here, even the hanging lights throughout the restaurant are shaped like delicate white tulips.
Our food arrived in a very short amount of time, steaming hot and beckoning to be gobbled up. Hubby’s came complete with a spicy peanut sauce. We traded bites of each other’s dishes like we always do.
“Well, nice picnic, huh?” I said.
“Don’t worry, we’ll get a chance to do another one soon.” Hubby reassured me.
We talked for a few minutes. I was so thankful we were able to find this spot of Thai comfort food just in the nick of time. Hubby shared stories about work, and I shared some about my day. Next thing I knew, Hubby’s plate was totally empty. Not one noodle left.
“How did you eat that so fast?” I asked him.
“I don’t know. I was hungry and it was good. Besides, you always talk when you eat and I don’t talk as much as you do so I eat faster.”
He has told me this for years, and loves to rub it in when I’m the only one left at the table with a full plate of food. I just stuck my tongue out at him.
I wasn’t able to clear my plate. I wanted to because the perfectly sautéed vegetables, noodles and sauce were so tasty-but I hate feeling stuffed to the gills. So, I asked for a box. A different waitress came by with the box. She smiled sweetly and asked:
“Would you like some more tea?” as she poured the last cup into my mug.
“I wish I could have another glass, but we have to go.” I said. She laughed, a little embarrassed that she had already poured the cup and then accidentally backed into some people walking behind her. Poor thing, I could tell she was mortified, but I thought it was very thoughtful that she took the time to pour tea for me.
On the way out, we passed a man who looked like he was the owner or manager. Two massive plates of Thai dishes were in both his hands, but still, he bowed his head, smiled brightly and said “Thank you for coming. Have a good night!”
How can you not love a place that makes you feel that special when you go there?
We got out of there for exactly $20 even, and that’s including a generous tip. Thai Bistro-thank you for always being a great spot for amazing Thai food and a romantic date night!
Atmosphere (romantic appeal): 5. This is a great spot to take your date, and try a nice variety of Thai dishes. It’s quiet and private and the waiters’ attentiveness is perfect.
Budget friendly: 5. With the Entertainment half off coupon we got a great deal at this place. Even without it, portions are generous and prices are reasonable.
Food: 5. The chicken in my dish was tender and the noodles and vegetables were firm and tasty. Hubby dug the Thai peanut sauce that came with his dish.
Memorable: 5. It’s good knowing we can look back and say: “Remember the time we were supposed to go on a picnic and we ended up having that great meal at Thai Bistro instead?”
Disclosure: I was not compensated by any person or business for writing this review.
What’s your favorite spot to get Thai food? Do you have a favorite dish you like to order every time?
(My favorite is Pad Thai, but Pad Kee Mao is a close second).
