Paya Thai is a low-key hangout with a decent Thai menu - Review - Atlanta - The Infatuation

"Despite its presence in the always-popping Westside Provisions District, Paya Thai is never packed. So the space—with its warm wood, giant orchids, and special attention to symmetrical decor—starts to feel more like a gallery than an actual restaurant. And the thinner crowds here have more to do with its tucked-away location (you can’t see it from the street) than anything about eating here. The Thai food is decent. And those who’ve had a sip of their creamy thom kha coconut soup and bites of the veggie-heavy pad woon sen are happy to keep this place as a low-key hangout or an IYKYK spot to impress a date. Food Rundown Seared Scallop Though the panang curry sauce is excellent, you only get two scallops. And the scallops are rubbery and chewy—not even the salmon roe and caviar on top can save this appetizer. PlayMute video credit: Juli Horsford Fried Tofu Even if you're not a big tofu fan, order this. The little tofu triangles are lightly fried, fluffy and moist on the inside, and come with a tasty peanut dipping sauce. PlayMute video credit: Juli Horsford Thom Ka Coconut The thick, creamy soup has a strong coconut flavor that works well with the mini mushrooms and chunks of chicken. It’s a solid take on a classic Thai dish. Chicken Larb Salad Ground chicken, spicy thai chili, chopped red onion, cilantro, and a massive amount of mint covered in a zesty lime vinaigrette make this a refreshing salad. It’s no showstopper, but it’s worth an order. Yellow Curry If you can’t handle spicy food, this is the curry for you. We can only describe this bowl of warm potatoes, peppers, and onions with your choice of protein (chicken works well) as extremely pleasant. Crying Tiger Thin strips of steak are served on a sizzling hot plate with onions. But the steak is a little too fatty and lacks that signature spicy kick that crying tiger should have. PlayMute video credit: Juli Horsford" - Juli Horsford