You’ve never tried authentic Thai cuisine, but UNK students have that option. It’s right across the street at Suwanee Thai Cuisine. With a dine-in option and take out, students have the option to take it to their dorm room.
Although its location is an unassuming strip mall, Suwanee is small and welcoming inside. When I visited, it was for a late lunch around 1:30 p.m. and they were not busy. At the front there was a sign stating to wait to be seated. Unfortunately, it was a longer wait than expected.
Once seated, the waitress was attentive and personable, ready to answer any questions about the menu. The menu has a selection of dishes including curries, spring rolls, soups, salads and noodles.
I was hoping for more authentic Thai beverages on the menu, but there were only a couple, one being hot jasmine tea. When received, the flavor of the tea was good, but the it was below room temperature. This was unfortunate, but I was still excited for the food.
I ordered the “Chicken in the Mud,” which was a mild yellow curry dish with vegetables. As someone who loves curry, the flavor was satisfactory, and the portion was common for the price. Unfortunately, again, the food was just above room temperature and not as fresh. On the other hand, the plate presentation was above average and aesthetically pleasing.
After the experience, many told me that Suwannee was one of their favorite restaurants and were surprised by my statements. One said that their parents eat there almost every week for a date night. I then decided I would try again the next week, seeing if I just came at the wrong time.
My second visit I had lunch at noon. It was a rush hour, and most of the tables were full of customers. Even though it was a busier time, the service was fast and efficient. The food came in no time.
I ordered the same yellow curry dish to compare to the first time I tried the restaurant. The presentation, once again, was very professional and pleasing because of the pineapple and cabbage garnish on the side. It had a great taste and was hot and fresh from the kitchen. I would say the portions were common for the prices of the dish.
Overall, I was glad that I decided to give Suwannee a second chance, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to try authentic Thai food. The location being so close to campus gives students an opportunity to go with friends or bring it back to their residence hall.
