My discovery is not a new find for locals in the Emerald City, but for me it is revolutionary. I have stumbled across the best Thai food ever- no no not the best Thai food in Seattle- but again- EVER. Thai Tom is a beacon on University Ave- in the center of an overabundance of food court quality storefronts fanning every side of the street accommodating the budgets of the predominant demographic of young 20-somethings. Thai Tom is different from the start. The warm glow of the neon lit open sign and the constant hover of patrons awaiting their turn for a seat billowing out the door, are its most recognizable street side features. Once inside you will be ushered to sit in the shoebox of a dining area by the friendly and industrious staff. The seating arrangements are one wall of stacked tables on the south wall followed by what I consider the box seats of the venue at the bar- providing excellent entertainment. The staff keeps this amazing cadence that I have yet to ever bear witness. Every person has a distinct role in maintaining the efficiency of the operation. Amazingly no one that works at Thai Tom manages to cross the lines of responsibility- keeping the order in tact. At the helm a gorgeous display of rhythm is conducted by the cook- who is on display for all to observe. Every space of the grill is maximized- a shallow wok pan on every burner. As soon as a pan is used it is immediately retrieved by the right-hand attendant- and soon replaced by a clean pan to be filled with vegetables and sauces- that are created right before your eyes. In addition to the smells wafting through the air are the tunes pumping through the air- with familiar tunes from classic rock heroes being the like of Eric Clapton, the Eagles and Mr. Bob Marley. Just as reticent as any other position is the person in charge of maintaining the quality of music quietly acting as DJ for the audience present. In addition to their post at Thai Tom, several of the guys that keep the eatery running smoothly are also in a band adequately named Thai Sons. The repertoire of the band heralds their favorite musicians covering the likes of Clapton and other rock legends. Due to the incredulously small space, Thai Tom can not accommodate performances so the band regularly performs the first Monday at the month at Scarlett Tree off of 65th and Roosevelt.
The most indicative trait of an establishment worthy of esteem is the quality of the person in charge. George-proprietor of Thai Tom (and drummer of Thai Sons)- in suit with other musicians I only know him by a singular name- is the epitome of an exceptional host. The appreciation for his customers is explicitly genuine and masterfully expressed. Slight in stature and frame are paradox to the largeness of his heart and exuding passion. All of the dishes listed on the fancifully rustic wooden menus are the creation of George himself. As a native of Thailand- he has brought us the flavors of his homeland with the style of a true artist and the graciousness of a Southern gentleman. You can not go wrong with anything here. Any selection will wow and have you craving more. In just one weeks time I have sat at George’s bar thrice times- and still it is not enough. If it weren’t for other obligations and my deep seeded satisfaction with cooking myself I would be dining with George and his enclave every night. This destination is more than open its happening.
