Tanni D.
Yelp
My friend and I visited Tum Pok Pok for lunch today. The moment we walked in, we were struck by the restaurant's vibrant and dynamic interior. The decor is a captivating fusion of minimalist and rustic styles. The simple lines of the furniture are beautifully complemented by rustic lanterns that cast a warm, inviting glow. The walls are adorned with colorful, eye-catching artwork and unique embellishments, creating an atmosphere that feels both modern and steeped in cultural charm. Throughout the restaurant, pops of vibrant color energize the space, while the soft hum of cultural music provides a lively, immersive backdrop to the meal.
However, if you venture to the bathroom, the music turns up a notch, and you might feel more like you're at a club than a casual eatery. It's an interesting contrast, but one that adds to the restaurant's fun and eclectic vibe.
For drinks, I ordered a Thai Black Tea with Lime ($4), which was wonderfully refreshing. The sweetness of the tea balanced with the tangy lime made for a perfectly satisfying drink. It was smooth and sweet, with just the right amount of citrus zing.
For my main course, I went with the Kao Pad Kra Pow (Basil Fried Rice) with Chicken ($18). As someone who loves this Thai classic, I was excited to dig in but unfortunately, the dish left me wanting more. The fried rice had a pleasant fragrance, but it lacked the depth of flavor I've come to expect from this dish. The basil, which is typically the star of the show, didn't shine as much as I had hoped, and the chicken was on the dry side, which made the dish feel a bit underwhelming.
I was surprised the Kao Pad Kra Pow didn't have the bold flavors I was expecting. For a place that delivers such a dynamic ambiance, I had hoped the food would have matched that energy. That said, I'd still be open to returning and trying other items on the menu.