With the ideal combination of spicy herbs, sweet pastes and fresh ingredients, Erawan of Bayside has succeeded in bringing authentic Thai cuisine to Bell Boulevard. Thai food is a “vacation” from the heavy Chinese takeout we’re all so accustomed to, as it combines aromatic sauces, tender noodles, fruits and vegetables with tender meats and fresh seafood.
The menu at Erawan brilliantly fuses many Southeast Asian cuisines, utilizing ingredients such as soy, curry, sweet chili, lemongrass, lime and cabbage. A surplus of fresh fruits and vegetables is used in creating these Thai delicacies, and most dishes are paired with thick, flavorful pastes and spicy sauces. Lightly prepared, yet potent with flavor – my taste buds entered a foreign “culinary kingdom” of fresh seafood, spicy curry and tantalizing herbs.
Appetizers are traditional and a great way to become familiar with Thai cuisine. Try the Moo Ping- strips of grilled marinated pork in honey herbs. Searching for something spicy? Order the Tom Yum, shrimp or chicken in a spicy herbal clear broth, light – with hints of lemongrass, lime leaves, and mushroom. The Tom Kha combines coconut milk, galangal, lime leaves and chili with herbs to provide an eye-opening explosion of flavor – unknown, yet delicious.
Entrees range from the typical Pad Thai to pineapple fried rice to crispy duck. Entrees are centered around noodles, shrimp, steak, chicken or tofu. The noodles come in a large assortment of shapes, sizes and flavors – each granting a specific texture to its designated dish. The entrees at Erawan exhibit a flawless focus on traditional Thai cuisine with a delightful infusion of Southeast Asian ingredients, spicy thick curries and sweet homemade pastes.
Pair your entrée with the sticky rice or order the pineapple fried rice and share. If you’re a meat eater order the Nuer Katah – sirloin steak cubes, cilantro roots, scallion garlic and vegetables. In the mood for seafood? The lobster Pad Thai is a gigantic plate of seafood heaven – a one-and-a-half pound lobster stuffed with shrimp. Thai food is a wondrous break from your grandma’s heavy Italian sauces and mom’s fried American staples- it combines sweet, spicy, and sour flavors with fresh meats, vegetables and colorful herbs. You’ll be presently surprised by the light, aromatic, textured cuisine served at this local haven.
“We come here because we know it’s consistent,” said Michelle. “I come hungry and leave satisfied- not full, it’s a great dinner option for people watching their weight.”
Erawan of Bayside offers something for everyone – through an aesthetic local atmosphere, delightful wait staff, and brilliant menu. Whether you’re interested in trying something new, watching your figure or call yourself a “Thai fanatic” – you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the food served up at Erawan.
Erawan
42-31 Bell Blvd
Bayside, NY 11361
718 428-2112
www.erawanthaibayside.com
Hours:
Monday – Thursday, noon – 10:30 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, noon – 11:30 p.m.
Sunday, 3 – 10 p.m.
