Veranda Thai Restaurant: An Authentic Culinary Voyage to Thailand in Portland, Maine

Nestled in the heart of Portland's vibrant culinary scene, Veranda Thai Restaurant enchants diners with its authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality. Led by Chef Wanida Chubang, a native of Thailand, Veranda Thai has become a beloved destination for Thai cuisine enthusiasts and first-time explorers alike.

A Culinary Oasis: Exploring the Menu

Step into Veranda Thai and immerse yourself in a world of culinary delights. The menu showcases an array of traditional Thai dishes, each meticulously prepared using fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs and spices.

Appetizers

• Golden Triangles (4 pieces, $10.95): Crispy wontons filled with a savory blend of ground pork, vegetables, and Thai spices
• Thai Fresh Spring Rolls (2 pieces, $9.95): Refreshing rolls brimming with vermicelli noodles, shrimp, herbs, and a peanut dipping sauce
• Coconut Shrimp (6 pieces, $12.95): Tender shrimp coated in a creamy coconut batter and served with a sweet chili sauce

Soups & Salads

• Tom Kha Gai ($12.95): A fragrant coconut broth infused with galangal, lemongrass, and tender chicken
• Tom Yum Goon ($14.95): A savory and subtly spicy soup with shrimp, mushrooms, onions, and a medley of herbs
• Thai Beef Salad ($15.95): Decadent grilled beef tossed in a tangy lime-based dressing, accompanied by onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and cilantro

Stir-Fries

• Basil Beef ($18.95): Sliced beef stir-fried with garlic, basil, and piquant chili peppers, offering a burst of savory flavors
• Garlic Pepper Chicken ($19.95): Tender chicken sautéed in a savory garlic pepper sauce, complemented by bell peppers, onions, and zucchini
• Cashew Chicken ($19.95): Crispy chicken tossed in a fragrant sauce with crunchy cashews and a hint of sweetness

Curries

• Green Curry ($18.95): A classic Thai dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a velvety green curry sauce
• Panang Curry ($19.95): A mild and creamy curry with a hint of peanut flavor, complemented by chicken, bell peppers, and bamboo shoots
• Masaman Curry ($19.95): A rich and aromatic curry with a blend of herbs and spices, perfect for pairing with chicken or beef

Noodles & Rice

• Pad Thai ($18.95): A popular dish featuring stir-fried rice noodles tossed in a sweet and savory tamarind sauce with chicken or tofu
• Pad See Ew ($18.95): Wide rice noodles stir-fried with soy sauce, vegetables, and your choice of meat or tofu
• Khao Pad ($16.95): Fragrant fried rice seasoned with Thai herbs and spices, available with chicken, beef, or shrimp

Ingredients at the Heart: Freshness and Authenticity

Veranda Thai prides itself on using the finest ingredients to ensure the authenticity and freshness of its dishes. Chef Wanida sources many of her ingredients directly from Thailand, ensuring that every bite transports diners to the heart of Bangkok.

Ambiance and Atmosphere: A Tranquil Escape

The ambiance at Veranda Thai is as inviting as its cuisine. The restaurant's cozy interior features elegant décor and warm lighting, creating a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Portland. Whether you're seeking a romantic evening or a family gathering, Veranda Thai provides a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

Community Involvement and Recognition

Veranda Thai is deeply committed to supporting the Portland community. The restaurant regularly participates in local events and fundraisers, and donates a portion of its proceeds to charitable organizations.

In recognition of its culinary excellence and unwavering community involvement, Veranda Thai has received numerous accolades, including:

• Portland Magazine's "Best Thai Restaurant" for 2022 and 2023
• TripAdvisor's "Certificate of Excellence" for 2021, 2022, and 2023
• OpenTable's "Diners' Choice" award for 2021 and 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Veranda Thai offer vegetarian or vegan options?
A: Yes, Veranda Thai has a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options available, including tofu-based dishes and vegetable curries.

Q: Are reservations required?
A: While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are highly recommended, especially for groups or special occasions.

Q: What are the restaurant's hours of operation?
A: Veranda Thai is open for lunch from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm Monday through Friday, and for dinner from 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm seven days a week.

Q: Is delivery available?
A: Yes, Veranda Thai offers delivery through third-party platforms such as Uber Eats and Grubhub.

Q: Can I order takeout online?
A: Yes, you can order takeout online through Veranda Thai's website.

Q: Does Veranda Thai cater events?
A: Yes, Veranda Thai offers catering services for special occasions, including weddings, corporate events, and private parties.

Tables

Table 1: Veranda Thai's Top-Rated Dishes

Table 2: Veranda Thai's Accolades

Table 3: Veranda Thai's Community Involvement

Table 4: Veranda Thai's Menu Items and Prices