Emily C.
Yelp
I'm embarrassed to say it's taken me a decade to try this little Thai option off 11th in my neck of the woods. There are some really solid Thai options in SLC and I tend to get set in my ways with my faves.
The experience, food, service and ambience were nice overall though I think I'll probably lean back into my go to Thai faves going forward and I have a couple of reasons why:
1) No alcoholic bevvys. If I'm going out to dinner at a restaurant, as an adult, this is a no brainer. Thai Archer needs a liquor license. Feeling fuzzy will always elevate the food and social experience.
2) Small/cramped/slightly shabby space. The Asian decor worked but it felt like the space was maze-like, unintentional, too small, and needing some updates and love. I appreciated locality and family owned feel, but it does need some investment. Also, the front facade has always been off putting for me - looks like roughly cut and painted purple plywood installed against a converted Sugarhouse bungalow, and it doesn't work.
3) Food was good and above average, but it lacked personality and memorability. The red and yellow curries were flavorful, as was the Tom Yum soup. The Thai tea wasn't my jam.
I do think with some investment this could be a local gem with booming business, but it doesn't feel like a priority of the current ownership. This place is never packed, but that may be intentional and part of the charm that is this little low-key and overlooked Thai option in Sugarhouse.