A Tasty Cultural Experience at Siam Orchid

Many people tend to stay indoors on a rainy day, but on one last week, I decided to dine out at Thai restaurant Siam Orchid, instead.

If you're driving, know ahead of time that there were limited parking spaces in front. You may have to park in a nearby lot and walk, but other possible parking spots were located at the Men's Warehouse and FedEx complex across the street.

Despite the parking, the restaurant itself was easy to find. Its burgundy canopy adorned with a white orchid, twinkling lights that hung from the canopy, and the two flower boxes helped the restaurant to stand out among its neighboring businesses. Siam Orchid sat in between Best Friends Pet Grooming Salon and Allstate Car Insurance.

Stepping inside, I was immediately transported to a different culture and tradition. The atmosphere seemed to stimulate all of my senses. Instrumental Thai music greeted my ears. The smell of food cooking in the kitchen was overpowering. The colorful arrangement of the floral tablecloths, fish tanks, plants, and paintings all enhanced the atmosphere. I was eager to taste the food.

I sat next to the window at a quaint table decorated with a single artificial orchid in a white vase. The waitress was attentive, friendly and polite.

 I decided to start with Siam Seafood Dumplings (4 pieces for $10.95). The steamed dumplings were stuffed with pork, shrimp, crabmeat and water chestnuts. They were wrapped in wonton skin, and served with soy sauce vinaigrette on the side. Peas and carrots were also on the plate.  The dish was served nice and hot. Each dumpling was a burst of flavors.  I could taste the pork more than the shrimp and crabmeat.

I followed the dish with Thai Pork Fried Rice ($10.95). I skipped the onion, peas and carrots leaving the pork and egg. The rice was seasoned with a healthy amount of pepper and light soy sauce. I liked this dish the best. It was a gracious portion of rice. I took the rest home, and it was still delicious the following day.

After the Thai Pork Fried Rice, I ordered one of the Chef's Suggestions of the day, the Shrimp Lemongrass with Salsa ($18.95). The grilled shrimp on skewers were laid across a bed of broccoli, cabbage, tomato, bean sprouts, carrots, lemongrass and basil. It also came with a side bowl of white rice. I mixed the white rice into the vegetables to help subdue the spicy sauce.

I finished my meal by ordering Fried Ice Cream ($7.95). I had heard great reviews about fried ice cream and decided to try it for myself while at Siam Orchid. The waitress brought out the ice cream and stopped next to the table. She then drizzled some rum over it, and lit it on fire.

I was dazzled and eager to eat the dish with the oxymoron name. On the plate was one scoop of vanilla ice cream encased in a deep fried dough outer shell. There were slices of kiwi, and whipped cream with sprinkles on the side. It was entertaining to eat, trying to chew the dough and slurp the ice cream simultaneously.

Overall, my dining experience at Siam Orchid was enjoyable. The dishes were a bit pricey, so I recommend dining during lunch hours. The restaurant also offered a full bar and takeout. The place maintained a casual atmosphere, and it was large enough for larger groups.