The Local Flavor

Author: Dina Magaril

Forgoing the usual Atwater dinner my first Saturday back on campus, a couple of friends of mine decided to take ourselves out somewhere a bit fancier for the commencement of our junior year. After a short drive we found ourselves at the door of the 'Bangkok Bistro's' in Burlington. This was my first outing to this elegantly casual Thai restaurant and I was craving some dumplings. The extensive menu featured appetizers such as Tom Yum soup and 'pot stickers' (vegetable dumplings) as well as a Thai coconut milk soup. The entrée selection included Curry bowls that came with rice for a steady $14.95, an assortment of Pad Thais that cost a few dollars more as well as the restaurants specials, which included a Sirloin steak and a Tuna grilled in Thai spices. I took a chance on the Red Curry bowl and my friends each ordered a Pad Thai. Though the wait for our entrees exceeded twenty minutes, our waitress compensated by refilling our mugs with Jasmine tea and was very attentive with our water glasses.

The Curry, labeled very spicy, was only mildly so and came with an assortment of grilled vegetables including peppers, zucchinis and onions. The complimentary rice was perfect to soak up the thick extra sauce, which had hints of coconut in it and hit the spot. The Pad Thai was light and the shrimp accompanying it fresh, making it a perfect Pad Thai that was less weighty than usual.

Bangkok Bistro is ideal for an intimate group dinner and perfect for a date though be sure you have plenty to talk about since you might be waiting a while before your food gets to you. Expect to pay around $25 for an appetizer and entrée. For those over 21, the swanky bar provides another sleek hangout at which yo wait at before the meal arrives.

For dessert make the two minute walk to 'Muddy Waters', Burlington's version of 'Carol's Hungry Mind.' This bustling coffee shop comes equipped with oak tables and large windows perfect for people watching and checking out the cute and scruffy UVM boys. The decadent chocolate flourless cake is so rich you will need a glass of milk to wash it down and the carrot cake is perfect with a hint of golden raisins. Most importantly, you will not spend too much at this popular hangout- two slices of cake will set you back $7 and the guys at the register were very helpful in suggesting their favorite desserts.