THAI BASIL--- Back Bay Bargain

Posted by Audrey Gallen in

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COPLEY SQUARE---- Whenever we think of the "Back Bay" area, we automatically think about expensive restaurants and overpriced cramped apartments. I actually disagree with that visual image. There are a lot of restaurants in Copley where you can dine in and not spend a fortune. I used to work around that area, that's why I know about these hot spots. It is very true that Copley Square is a melting pot of all cultures. From Italian to Thai food, they have it all here. The only problem is, where should you go?

Imagine this, it is a Friday afternoon and you want to treat yourself out for lunch. Not just regular lunch, but we're talking about 'a fine lunch.' I'm sure you don't want to go to a super expensive restaurant, but you don't want to go to a fast food chain or a quick take out either. Well, if you don't mind a little kick of spice in your food, you should go to Thai Basil. I knew about this place because a former co-worker suggested that they have the best and cheap Thai Iced Tea, so I tried one-- and since then, I became hooked on it.

A couple of days ago, I went to Thai Basil to relax and eat after a long torturous day. I've always loved going there because the waitresses are absolutely nice! I never had an issue with the staff nor with the quality of my food. It is dining-in first class but on a low cost budget.

It is located on 132 Newbury St., one of the busiest streets in Boston. If you're not a Bostonian, you have to really look closely because this restaurant is not on the street level, though you'd see the "Thai Basil" sign on the top of their stairs. It looks like this:

Now that you know what it looks like. I'm going to tell you about my experience in this place. The restaurant is small . It only holds about 50-75 people. Also, even if its a sunny day out, expect this restaurant to be dimly lit. They don't have bright ceiling lights, only wall lamps with yellow incandescent light bulbs. It maintains the Thai ambiance and the intimate feel of the place.

I ordered a cocktail drink called "Blush," a strawberry and citrus drink mixed with white wine. It is best to partner it with spicy food, but then again, that's just my personal opinion.

Moving on to the main course, they had this combination plate menu that I took advantage of. I'm a big fan of curry, especially when it's a spicy curry! I love spicy food! So, I ordered Randang Curry, it is a red curry mixed with grounded peanuts and bamboo shoots. I had a choice between chicken or beef-- so I just chose the beef. It was served with white rice with free dumplings and spring rolls. This is a big meal, it can be both lunch and dinner. Well, but if you're a hungry one, you can finish the whole plate in less than an hour!

The appetizers are free, so you really can't expect another plate full of spring rolls and dumplings. They only serve you a couple of them, such as this one on the picture. They also give you this special sauce, tastes like vinegar but somewhat sweet. To tell you the truth, I really don't know what it is! But it tastes good, so I have no complaints!

When I got my check it's less than $15 for everything. Well, of course I gave them a very decent tip for a wonderful service. For those people who LOVE spicy food. You should definitely check this place out. They have a menu with so many Thai food selections.

Bon Appetit!