Pacific Grove has welcomed a new dining option with the opening of Love Thai Cuisine, a restaurant quickly gaining attention for its unique take on Thai flavors. Located in the heart of the city, Love Thai Cuisine fills the space once occupied by Taste of India, and is already drawing in crowds despite its recent launch.
The Rise of the “Thai Triangle”
From Love Thai to Mai Thai, Zab Zab Thai Cuisine, and Pacific Thai, the area is becoming known as the “Thai Triangle.” These four restaurants, located within close proximity to one another, offer a diverse range of Thai dishes and have become a popular dining hub for both locals and visitors.
While Love Thai is the newest addition, opening in November, the restaurant is already carving out its niche. Thunyathorn “Jane” Vencill, the owner, explains that the restaurant’s success stems from the food’s rich flavors, and its welcoming location with outdoor seating.
“We get busy sometimes,” Vencill says, noting that the November opening gave them time to refine their operations, avoiding the rush of tourist season.
Surprising Menu Choices
Though Thai food is often known for its spicy curries and stir-fried noodles, Love Thai stands out with some unexpected menu options. One such dish is Khao Man Gai, a simple chicken and rice dish that combines earthy flavors with a touch of sweetness and a hint of ginger. Another surprise is the American fried rice, a dish Vencill describes as a staple in Thailand but rarely seen in U.S. Thai restaurants.
“It’s good for kids,” she adds, highlighting the dish’s family-friendly appeal. The menu also includes some non-traditional options, like fish and chips and fried artichokes, reflecting the restaurant’s goal of offering variety for all tastes.
A Blend of Traditional and Modern Flavors
Thai cuisine, which blends sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, is known for its balance of ingredients and bold flavors. The influence of other cultures is evident in dishes such as cashew chicken, a popular choice at Mai Thai, which combines mellow nuttiness with sweet vegetables and a tangy sauce.
Vencill explains that Love Thai Cuisine focuses on balancing these flavors, with the option for customers to adjust the spice level. “We try to make it not so spicy,” she says, adding that customers can always increase the heat to their liking.
The Popularity of Pad Thai
Pad Thai, a beloved noodle dish, is a staple at Love Thai and other restaurants in the area. Vencill notes that this dish is often the first thing customers think of when they visit a Thai restaurant. Despite other popular offerings, she is surprised when guests overlook the curries in favor of the iconic Pad Thai.
“I love Pad Thai. My husband loves Pad Thai,” Vencill shares, reflecting the dish’s widespread appeal. However, she emphasizes that Thai cuisine offers much more than just Pad Thai, with a rich variety of flavors and textures to explore.
A Growing Trend in the U.S.
Thai food has experienced significant growth in the U.S. in recent years. In 2002, there were only 2,000 Thai restaurants nationwide. Now, that number has surpassed 7,000. A major factor in this expansion is the Thai government’s successful “gastrodiplomacy” program, which has helped promote Thai cuisine worldwide.
For Vencill, it’s not just government efforts that have helped bring Thai food into the spotlight—it’s the distinctive flavors and balance of spices that keep diners coming back for more. The chicken satay, for example, with its tender meat and flavorful peanut sauce, is a perfect example of how well-crafted dishes can build a loyal customer base.
Conclusion
Love Thai Cuisine is part of the growing popularity of Thai food in the U.S., and its location in Pacific Grove adds another layer to the area’s culinary landscape. With its menu of traditional and surprising dishes, the restaurant is sure to keep attracting both seasoned Thai food lovers and newcomers eager to explore its rich flavors.
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