On University Boulevard at the very edge of The Strip lie Tuscaloosa’s two Thai restaurants that happen to be, quite literally, a stone’s throw from each other. Surin of Thailand, a sleek eatery with an extensive menu, is situated across the street from the locally owned and exceedingly authentic Ruan Thai.
Now I know there are plenty of you out there with very strong opinions on the subject – you’ve picked your side and you’re sticking to it. But for those who are still on the fence or don’t even have an opinion at all, here’s a look at what both restaurants have to offer.
Surin of Thailand
A goddess statue and tranquil waterfall greet me upon entering Surin, hinting at the overall contemporary and sophisticated atmosphere of the place. A blackboard lets me know that I’ve already missed happy hour (half off appetizers and $2 off martinis) which is from 5 to 6:30 p.m., but if I’m still hungry later tonight I can check out their midnight sushi deals, starting at 11 p.m., Thursday through Saturday. For now I’ll stick to their regular menu, and there’s certainly a lot to choose from.
Surin offers large drink and sushi menus, Thai favorites like Chicken Masaman and Pad Thai, and more Americanized dishes for any hesitant diners. Well, to be honest, the whole menu is pretty Americanized. The sauce on my Pad Thai is extremely sweet and the yellow curry tastes like it’s got more half-and-half in it than coconut milk, but the food is not un-enjoyable.
You may end up spending $15 to $20 for your meal, but the service is friendly and attentive, the menu offers lots of options and the atmosphere is great if you want a nice dinner without having to break the bank.
Bottom line: Not the most authentic Thai fare, but good menu selection and sophisticated atmosphere make Surin a great spot for group dinners and date nights.
2.5 out of 4 stars
Ruan Thai
Ruan Thai used to be mistaken for a house before owners Sasievan Yeager and her husband put a dining patio out front, but since everything that comes out of their kitchen is homemade, being mistaken for a home wasn’t such a stretch.
Ruan Thai has a reputation around town amongst locals and students-in-the-know for having the most authentic Thai food in Tuscaloosa, and possibly in Alabama. I sat down and talked with Sasievan, who is originally from Bangkok, and she told me how she brought all of her family’s recipes with her when she came to the United States.
Ruan Thai’s chefs and many of the wait staff have been with the Yeagers since 1991, when Ruan Thai was The Thai House, so it really is a family affair.
The restaurant may be plain to look at on the inside, but the food more than makes up for it. Everything – and I mean EVERYTHING – is made by hand, including all dipping sauces and ice creams, and it makes a difference.
The crab angels were light and delicate and the sauce that came with them was so good that I unashamedly got my spoon and ate it straight. The curry is soupier than some diners may like, but I found it to be rich without being heavy and a perfect companion for rice.
Entrees are around $10 and are even cheaper during happy hour, which is every day from 5 to 7 p.m. Ruan Thai will also be introducing sushi to their menu on Feb. 6.
Bottom line: It may not be anything fancy to look at, but since it boasts the most authentic Asian food in town, it doesn’t need to be.
3 out of 4 stars
