Thai Cottage Restaurant

When Green Mango left Regent Square I was in mourning for several weeks- would I really have to travel to Monroeville just to get my beloved summer rolls? I guess so.

Thai Cottage now occupies the space that Green Mango once did. The ambiance is similar to that of the former eatery- minimal décor ornamented the walls; soft ethnic music played in the background.

Our server was extremely attentive and helpful, educating us about the menu, and other specials that weren’t listed. While reviewing the menu we decided to sample the Fresh Rolls ($5.50) served with sweet sauce and crushed peanuts. Our rolls arrived immediately, and as I ate them, thought they may have been prepared ahead of time. The rice paper was thick and gummy- the fresh mint and basil provided a nice freshness to the dish.

Thai Fresh Rolls

My dinner mate chose a seafood-curry dish served in a trimmed coconut shell. The presentation was impressive, but it was difficult to see what was inside. Colored peppers, fried calamari and large shrimp emerged. The coconut-flavored seafood was flavorful and extremely spicy. A large dish of steamed rice helped quell the heat.

Seafood and Coconut

I opted for the barbecued beef (not listed on the menu). Flat strips of tasty marinated meat were served over chopped lettuce. I asked for brown rice (which never appeared) but was instead served a small ball of sticky rice in a foil wrapper. I was a bit perplexed by the rice- it was served in a strange manner and lacked flavor.

Thai Barbecued Beef

Thai Cottage is a nice local restaurant. The food is authentic Thai, and the service is above average. If you’re looking for a nice summer-spot to sit outside during the warm summer months, give it a try.

Chef Chuck Kerber

chuck@cooksandeats.com

cooksandeats.com