By Karen Pacifico

itting down for a satisfying meal is an integral part of Thai culture and you’ll discover that Owner /Head Chef, J “Da” Yakhasem truly believes in Thailand’s philosophy that “life is pleasure” and that dining is meant to be a very enjoyable experience.

Opened in late July, Ruan Thai Cuisine II, located in Belfair Towne Village is the second family owned restaurant in the area. Da’s sister, Bun Ruan, is the head chef at the Ruan Thai Cuisine restaurant on Hilton Head Island. Thai cooking uses robustly flavored ingredients like; curries, chilies, lime juice, and ginger among others. Not all Thai dishes are hot but chilies are essential to their cuisine.

Their dishes are sometimes spicy and when melded during cooking, flavors arrive at a sophisticated and subtle elegance.

To be certain that both restaurants provide diners with an authentic, high quality dining experience, the sisters were each joined by their mother who lives in Thailand and who came to supervise the opening of each location. The name Ruan means warm, traditional and inviting house. Mom along with her chef daughters offer authentic fare which is often spicy hot, but they also prepare dishes for those of you who like the flavor without the heat. Make no mistake; this is neither Chinese nor Japanese cuisine. Much of what is known about Thai cuisine evolved in the Central region of Asia. Rice, fish and vegetables along with fresh fruit and flavors such as garlic and black pepper comprised their main diet. Throughout the centuries, Thailand, once called Siam, added their own spicy ingredients to the Asian diet including chili peppers, coriander, lime and tomato.

The menu is divided sensibly into soups, curries, salads, noodles and other categories. Since rice is the staple food in Thailand, many dishes were created to go with it. Dishes with peppers start at mild and diners can choose from among four levels of spiciness for their meal.

You can order from the lunch menu; vegetarian for $7.50, or a selection of meats for $8.25 or shrimp for $9.50 which includes your choice of Spring Roll or the Soup of the Day. For example, you can order a basic dish of various ingredients which might include curries, noodles or rice to which can be added chicken, beef, pork or shrimp. In addition, there are many specials. Dinner entrees are slightly higher in price and you can choose from appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and specials. In addition, you can choose from a great selection of fresh seafood, all prepared according to authentic Thai recipes.

For a true slice of Thai life, let the informed and caring servers familiarize you with the menu selections. While I am very familiar with Thai food, this was a ‘first’ for Donna Huffman. Our server, Brittany was wonderfully helpful.

Donna tried Pad Thai, everyone’s favorite noodle dish, and one that is loved worldwide. It’s a timeless classic which originated in Bangkok and one that you could buy from a food cart there. This consists of medium sized rice noodles, egg, green onion, tofu, and bean sprouts. It was perfect for a first-timer, a little sweet and very delicious. Other selections for beginners are Thai Ginger and Thai Basil. Be sure to mention any concerns and the very helpful staff will assist you.

I chose Mango Paradise, a luncheon special consisting of stir-fried shrimp with mango, basil leaves, onion and bell peppers. This was an example of the spicy content making the dish somewhat hot but very pleasant and flavorful. Lunch portions were large but we found room to try fried bananas, which were delicious. For something special, you might want to try Mango Fried Ice Cream that comes to your table Flambé. Mango is one of several unique flavors offered. Also, there’s a children’s menu, an extensive wine and beer list as well as other beverages.

The bamboo and paprika decor consists of booths, tables and an open kitchen for observing all the action. Weather permitting, you may dine outdoors.

Despite an abundance of great food, Thailand is a nation of thin people. Their food offers a variety of flavors and tastes and the cuisine enjoys an outstanding worldwide reputation for its uniqueness. So make a date to come to this warm, inviting place where life is pleasure and your experience will be pleasurable.

RUAN THAI CUISINE II
26 Towne Drive,
Belfair Towne Village
757-9479
Take out is available
HOURS:
Monday through Thursday
Lunch-11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Dinner- 4:30-9:30 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m.-3 p.m and 4:30-10 p.m.