Sen Yai Sen Lek

Sen Yai Sen Lek, "Big Noodle, Little Noodle" was worth the terrible drive through traffic and the pouring rain. I called as I left my house to order take-out and asked the server what he recommended. He suggested Po Pia Tod and Pad Bpai Gra Pow. I said....sure, just make sure it's spicy!

The Po Pia Tod (crispy spring rolls with mung bean noodles, wood ear mushrooms, shredded carrot, cabbage and ground pork. Served with sweet chili sauce) was good with the sauce being the real winner. Usually sweet chili sauce it pretty bland to me (remember that sauce with the Australian Battered Potatoes at the State Fair?!), but this sauce had some real kick and made my lips tingle with delight.


For my main dish, I had the Pad Bpai Gra Pow with chicken (Thai basil stir fry with ground pork or chicken, garlic, chilies and long bean. Served with steamed rice, topped with a fried egg). In addition to this being recommended, my friend at work also thought it looked tasty AND my sister used to eat rice with a fried egg on top almost daily in Thailand. This was also delicious. The menu says that one of their guiding principles is cultural authenticity, which intrigues me since I've never seen ground meat on a Thai menu before. I will do some research and follow-up! Although I loved this, I wish I would have asked what the curry special of the day was since after all, I am a curry girl at heart! Maybe next time.

I am excited to go back...and I just LOVE the cute restaurant name (although I think the owner had a crush on the Noodles and Co. look!)

Decor: eek- I just ran in for a second AND was on the phone....
Prices: average ($10-$15)
Spice level: Just right!

More information:

Sen Yai Sen Lek
2422 Central Avenue NE
Minneapolis, MN 55418

www.senyai-senlek.com