Robert M.
Yelp
Thai food joint Spoon and Fork has been around at couple of years, located in the upscale Belterra Village retail complex between Breed Ace Hardware and the League. It's easy to overlook them because of the small slot and the competition. But overlooking them would be a mistake.
Venue-wise, there's not much to brag about. The façade is unremarkable, as is the interior. Bland and sterile and relatively small. Uninspired decor that could have used some interior design advice.
The service is excellent, though. Clarissa, our server, worked her hindquarters off while we were there, but she was unfailingly chipper and bright and very accommodating. We saw her SPRINTING several times during our stay, and that speaks to the passion and dedication of the staff. Because the main menu mentions only tea and soft drinks, we didn't realize they had alcohol until we noticed the shelves behind the counter with all the bottles. We'd ordered two teas already, but we wanted to switch to one of their large selection of Asian and other beers. Clarissa didn't flinch and changed our order midstream with graciousness and a smile.
Food, though, really gets them four stars. The steamed dumplings were very traditional but also very good - subtle and warm and classic. I had the Panang Salmon Avocado. Stupid good. STUPID GOOD. The salmon was not over cooked and was flakey and tender. The coconut nut milk sauce had a fine blend of spices and greens and enough heat on the back end to get your attention without making you sweat. The filet was generous, but that sauce was both strong and delicate and slightly sweet at the same time. The avocado slices were a savory addition to that rich blend of flavors. My companion had the Thai Spicy Basil with shrimp off the stir fry menu. The shrimp were large and well prepared, again, the spice mix with basil was extremely pleasing.
I perceive that a lot of their business is take out, but I'd counsel you to dine in. That way you get the full flavor impact of the dishes right from the kitchen ((and they are pretty expeditious in getting stuff to the table - I credit the sprinting for that). And, if you dine in, maybe, you'll get Clarissa as your server.