Nyla M.
Yelp
In a city teeming with Thai restaurants, Sanai manages to carve their own niche. And do it well.
The vibe upon entering is welcoming, bright, peaceful, caring. That vibe extends to the service. My server was friendly, attentive without being cloying. She seemed to care if I had everything I need, all the condiments I might want, enough water.
She was knowledgeable about the menu. When I shared that I was stuck between two choices offered on their menu, one that offers many traditional Thai dishes not often found in Portland's Thai scene, she spent a bit of time helping me unpack each. I ended up going with a traditional Thai dish from their Fall and Winter menu, Khao Soi Pot, a dish so redolent of the best street food I found in the hidden Soi's of Thailand that it sent me back to pleasurable memories.
The broth, a not too rich chickeny coconut, served as the host of succulent, dark chicken thigh meat and some flavorful noodles. A side dish of pickled veggies, onions, bean sprouts, and lime allowed me to punch it up as I desired. With some chili oil I was in food bliss, perfect on this transitional autumn day.
I always think the simple salad roll can tell a lot about a Thai kitchen. This one definitely did. Clearly made while I waited, the wrapper was plush, soft, packed with fresh crispy lettuce, parsley, sprouts, i am not a big fan of peanut sauce but theirs was flavorful. I personally would have preferred a vinegar based dipped. Small, personal preference.
I am looking forward to returning with a group so we can taste a lot more of that capacious menu. The place is accessible and street parking was not hard to find.