Not long ago Kathy and I found ourselves in New Haven around lunch time, with no idea where to go. We wandered up Chapel St. towards York window shopping and looking for something good to eat, but we weren’t sure what. We passed the Atticus Bookshop, and almost went in, as they have a small lunch section, but I feared we wouldn’t want to leave because we both love book stores. We crossed York and tried an Irish pub, but it didn’t open until 3pm. By then my stomach was growling, so we doubled back to a small restaurant we saw on York called Bangkok Garden, and were we glad we did.
After entering a rather nondescript waiting area, we were seated in the glass enclosed front dining room. It was a sunny day, and the room had a pleasant glow about it. Plus, for a Tuesday afternoon at 2pm, a fair amount of customers were seated and seemed to be enjoying themselves. We thought it a good omen, and started in on the menu.
Here’s where we were pleasantly surprised. The list of specials was large and eclectic, with many different beef, chicken, shrimp and even duck dishes. You could also order the dishes with tofu if you so desired (but I did not.) I ordered a duck dish with vegetables in a chili sauce, and Kathy ordered chicken and vegetables in a sweet sauce. The chili sauce was hot and spicy, but not disturbingly so. It reached just the right level of heat without being uncomfortable. Kathy’s chicken was sweet without being cloying, as some asian dishes can be. The vegetables were fresh, with the peppers in my duck dish being the standout, and no water chestnuts in sight. (I hate water chestnuts!) We also liked the mini ears of corn, which Kathy proceeded to eat like Tom Hanks in Big.
The specials also came with a choice of appetizers. I picked two egg rolls and Kathy went for dumplings. Both appetizers were accompanied by dipping sauces, which we shared. We also augmented the meal with two Mai Tais each, and the fruity drinks blended well with our fare, and packed a good punch.
Now for the best part. The specials were $7.50 apiece, appetizers included, and the Mai Tais were $6.50 a pop. You can’t beat those prices with a stick. And although we spent $50.00 on lunch, tip included, we left with full bellies and a slight buzz, promising ourselves we would soon be back. I would recommend Bangkok Garden to anyone looking for great food at affordable prices (and who isn’t looking for just that?) The service was prompt, the place was spotless, and the front dining room afforded views of passers-by on York, perfect for a people watcher such as myself.
So if you’re in New Haven, and want to enjoy some good food and drink, visit Bangkok Garden at 172 York St, across from the Yale Rep. You won’t be disappointed.
breezespeaks 