INFOCUS

TREAT YOUR TASTEBUDS

TO AUTHENTIC THAI THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

WRITTEN BY SOPHIE OSWALD / PHOTOS BY JAMI BOWMAN

When Tuk Tuk Thai arrived in Overland Park, the goal was to create a place where families and friends can gather and enjoy mouthwatering Thai food. Their dream of providing the most delicious food and delightful dining experience became a reality in 2019.

This restaurant is family- and sister-owned, so love is at the heart of everything they do. A lot of work has been put into bringing their vision to life. Anyone eager to dive into a plate of authentic Thai cuisine doesn’t need to look any further.

The open kitchen style at Tuk Tuk Thai makes for a unique experience. From any table, you can hear the sounds of cooking and smell the delicious spices and herbs while your food is prepared. They use a range of ingredients such as ginger, Thai chili, galanga, lemongrass, and basil.

“I believe Thai food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world,” says co-owner Nicole Brizendine. “It has at least five different flavors: sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and savory.” Thai dishes come with many choices for the level of spice. Customers can order food with no spice or try something more intense like Thai hot, depending on their preferences.

Pad Thai is the most popular dish. It is sweet and savory with the perfect touch of salty and nutty. This is a dish anyone is sure to love. Other popular dishes include drunken noodle (phad kee mow) and various curries.

“If you are new to Thai cuisine, try Pad Thai then branch out to different dishes on the menu,” suggests Brizendine. “There are chef’s special-

ties, and you need to check out other dishes like Gaprow, Freestyle Fish, and roast duck.”

Like most restaurants, Tuk Tuk Thai felt the weight of the pandemic. Thankfully, they were able to push through the challenges. They saw an increase in delivery orders during the pandemic, but the owners are happy to see customers dine indoors once again.

“We have seen more regular customers and lots from out of town as well,” says Brizendine. “We have hosted some customers from as far as Sweden, Australia, the Netherlands, and South Africa while they are in town for business or visiting family.”

The hope is that people come in as strangers and leave as happy customers. “We love seeing our customers,” expresses Brizendine. “We also enjoy their stories, life experiences, and travel adventures that they have shared with us. Seeing them happy while dining in with us means a lot to me and the staff.”

“We love this place,” says customer E. Faria. “Best curry. We’ve tried other Thai restaurants, but always come back here. It’s our absolute favorite in the area and think it’s one of those best kept secret type of joints.” If you’re looking for a local Thai restaurant to try, add Tuk Tuk Thai to the list. You are sure to love the authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere that await.

“If you’re looking for a local Thai restaurant to try, add Tuk Tuk Thai to the list. You are sure to love the authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere that await.”

Tuk Tuk Thai • 8351 W. 135th St., Overland Park, KS • 913.291.0106 • tuktukthaikc.com SIMPLYkc special: Free Thai Ice Tea or Thai Iced Coffee with the purchase of dinner for the month of December 2022.