In Bangkok, you could very well be swindled by an imposter-tourist and taken on an endless tuk-tuk ride until you or someone you know purchases bogus jewelry, or at least looks at bogus jewelry for a long period of time. Irritated by the wasted afternoon and the inhalation of gaseous fumes, you will find solace in pad Thai and beer. Not that I know anything about that.
If you'd prefer to forgo the twenty hour flight and the swindling, Amarit offers the traditional Thai standards along with an assortment of pan-Asian dishes. So, you can have tom yum soup ($6.25) and follow it with salmon teriyaki ($13.95). I'm not recommending this, but it's possible if you so desire. Pad thai is $6.50, while most other entrees and noodle dishes are between $6.75 and $8.75. House recommendations include mussels with wine and cream sauce, unagi on rice and duck curry ($8.75 each). While you're perusing the menu, don't overlook the selection of East Asian beers.
Prices are anywhere from 30 cents to $1 less for most dishes at lunch, defined as before 3 p.m. on weekdays. Dinner prices apply on weekends and holidays. So, you'll save a little cash if you don't go on Columbus Day.
Far roomier than the Gold Coast space that housed the restaurant for 16 years, Amarit's South Loop digs are doused in warm chocolate and cream. With comfy booths along one wall and spare tables along the other, the long, skinny dining room feels airy and clean. Bright splashes of art on the wall add the perfect pop of color. An 80-seat private party room tucks into the back, and when it's warm out, a leafy patio area opens up.
Centerstage Reviewer: A.J. Weiss
