Tamarind Seed Thai Bistro

Frommer's Review

If you like Thai, you'll love Tamarind. And if you've never tried Thai food, this is the place to start. Tamarind is a serious, upscale restaurant, and the quality of the food is higher than you'll find in most other Thai restaurants in the city. Located close to Georgia Tech, it's a favorite among the faculty there, and popular with others who appreciate excellent, authentically prepared ethnic cuisine.

Tamarind is in an odd location -- practically next to the downtown expressway -- and the exterior doesn't give many clues about the delights that lurk within. But once inside, you'll find white tablecloths, fresh flowers, sophisticated decor, and impeccable service. It's a good choice for a romantic evening, business lunch, or pre-theater dinner.

The menu includes all the usual Thai standbys -- pad Thai, chicken-coconut milk soup, fresh basil rolls, curries, and so on -- and even the most ordinary dishes are carefully prepared and artfully presented. You won't be disappointed with the more inventive dishes, either, such as neua yang nam tok, or "waterfall beef," consisting of tender strips of steak marinated in tamarind and chile peppers and cooked with shallots, sesame seeds, and mint leaves. Keep in mind that Thai cuisine is designed to stimulate five taste senses: sweet, sour, neutral, salty, and hot. And they do mean hot: Tamarind doesn't skimp on the chiles, and many of the dishes are downright fiery. Be sure to pay attention to the "hotness guide" on the menu.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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