Chatayee Thai - Review - Midtown Village - Philadelphia - The Infatuation

"If first impressions were true, then walking into this Thai restaurant in Midtown Village would tell you everything you need to know. It’s massive, has a long bar, and is decorated with everything from Buddhist statues to hanging floral garlands. So, yes, it’s good for a big group, having a drink (but skip the rum-overpowered Long Thailand Iced Tea), and chowing down on traditional dishes like massuman curry and khao soi. But the reality is the mains are just okay—think bland curries and overcooked prawns. Starters, like the firecracker rolls and the tangy larb kai, are the only way to go. When it comes to food, a good first impression means nothing unless it's a good first bite. photo credit: CANDIS R. MCLEAN photo credit: CANDIS R. MCLEAN photo credit: CANDIS R. MCLEAN Pause Unmute Food Rundown Long Thailand Iced Tea We thought the addition of of Thai tea and cream would make this rum, whiskey, and brandy mash-up smoother. But after our first mouthful of 100-proof sip, we realized our error. photo credit: CANDIS R. MCLEAN Larb Kai It may look like a mound of chaos—one with a great florist—but this mix of minced chicken, leafy romaine, chilis, and herbs is the best thing we’ve eaten here. Order it. And if you’re really hungry, order two instead of a main. photo credit: CANDIS R. MCLEAN Firecracker They look like long saltwater taffies with a tan. And if you dip the chicken- and shrimp-stuffed rice paper rods in the sweet chili sauce, you'll get something almost as sugary. photo credit: CANDIS R. MCLEAN Pad See Ew A classic drunken noodle without the tried-and-true spicy, tangy flavor. You can skip it. photo credit: CANDIS R. MCLEAN Crown Royal Green Curry Oily. Watery Potatoes. Overcooked Beef. Just no. photo credit: CANDIS R. MCLEAN" - Candis R. McLean