Paadee

Description

Let me tell you about Paadee, one of Portland’s most talked-about Thai restaurants that’s completely transformed how locals think about Southeast Asian cuisine. I’ve gotta say, this isn’t your typical pad thai joint – it’s way more exciting than that. The moment you walk in, you’ll notice the sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere that manages to be both modern and cozy at the same time.

What really sets Paadee apart is their innovative take on Thai cuisine. The kitchen team here definitely knows their stuff, creating dishes that honor traditional Thai flavors while adding their own creative twists. And can we talk about their cocktail program? It’s seriously impressive. They’ve got these craft cocktails that perfectly complement the food – think lemongrass-infused spirits and spicy-sweet combinations that’ll make you rethink what a Thai restaurant bar can be.

Key Features

• Creative menu that puts an innovative spin on traditional Thai dishes
• Expertly crafted cocktail program featuring unique Asian-inspired ingredients
• Sophisticated, modern dining space with a warm ambiance
• Open kitchen concept where you can watch the culinary magic happen
• Seasonal menu changes that keep things fresh and exciting
• Impressive wine list carefully selected to pair with Thai flavors
• Beautiful presentation of dishes that makes every plate Instagram-worthy
• Attentive service that strikes the perfect balance between professional and friendly

Best Time to Visit

From my experience, timing your visit to Paadee can make a big difference in your dining experience. The restaurant really comes alive during dinner service, especially between 6:30 and 8:30 PM when the atmosphere is most energetic. But here’s a pro tip – if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, come during the early dinner service (around 5 PM) or opt for a late dinner after 9 PM.

Weekends are predictably busier, with Friday and Saturday nights being the peak times. If you’re not into waiting (and who is?), try visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday evening when the vibe is more laid-back but the food is just as amazing. During summer months, the energy is particularly fantastic, as the restaurant seems to capture that perfect Portland summer evening feeling.

How to Get There

Getting to Paadee is pretty straightforward, especially if you’re already in Portland’s East Side. The restaurant sits in a super accessible spot in the lower Burnside area. If you’re taking public transit, several bus lines will get you within a block or two of the restaurant. For cyclists (this is Portland, after all), there’s plenty of bike parking nearby.

If you’re driving, you might need to circle around a bit to find street parking – but trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes. The restaurant is also just a short ride away from downtown Portland via rideshare services, making it an easy destination even if you’re staying on the west side of the river.

Tips for Visiting

After countless visits to Paadee (yes, I’m slightly obsessed), I’ve picked up some insider knowledge that’ll help make your experience even better. First off, reservations are your friend – especially for dinner. While they do accept walk-ins, having a reservation will save you from potentially long wait times, particularly on weekends.

Don’t be shy about asking your server for recommendations. The menu can be a bit overwhelming at first, but the staff really knows their stuff and can guide you toward dishes that match your spice tolerance and preferences. Speaking of spice, when they say something’s spicy, they mean it! But you can always request adjustments to the heat level.

The portion sizes are perfect for sharing, so come with friends if you can. This way, you’ll get to try more dishes – and believe me, you’ll want to try everything. If you’re into cocktails, start your meal with one of their signature drinks. They’re not just delicious but also make for a great way to ease into the flavors that await.

For the best experience, try to pace yourself through the meal. The dishes come out as they’re ready, which creates this amazing flow of flavors throughout your visit. And please, please save room for dessert – they often have these incredible seasonal offerings that you won’t want to miss.

Last but definitely not least, if you’re a first-timer, don’t skip the crispy fish dishes – they’re kind of legendary around here. And if you’re feeling adventurous, let your server know. The kitchen often has special off-menu items that’ll blow your mind.

Remember to check their social media before heading over, as they sometimes have special events or seasonal menus that you won’t want to miss. And hey, if you end up loving it as much as I do, consider joining their email list to stay updated on special events and new menu items.

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