Published: January 30, 2006 10:52 am            

Blue Elephant

Thai cuisine and favorites from throughout Asia

I believe "cultural" food should be three things: from a different culture (of course), tasty and cheap. That's my mantra, and I think most people would agree with me on that one as well.

That's why, when it comes to Asian food, the newly planted seed in this writer's heart is The Blue Elephant --it's got the cultural trifecta.

For someone who has only experienced the traditional Chinese take-out and who's been terrified by the horror stories of her aunt's spicy Korean food, I had to muster up a little bravery and recruit a friend before I ventured into the Blue Elephant, the area's Thai restaurant.

And after my meal there, I'm certainly glad I did.

First of all let me say that I believe the fate of a restaurant can be fully determined by it's decor, a place has to have a certain "feng-shui" to survive.

Upon entering the building, I was greeted by a very contemporary setting. In one corner, opposite of the dining area there were a couple of big, comfy chairs and while peering into the dining room my first impression was simple and beautiful.

After being seated at my table by the window, I grooved to jazz music playing in the background. I was definitely having a New York City type of moment -- the place had low lights with both contemporary and cultural pieces hanging on the walls, the table settings were minimalist and yet everything seemed very ornate. Its subtle sophistication at its finest.

The menu has excellent selections ranging from the Thai favorites like the wild boar basil, a pork and basil dish served with rice to Korean dishes like bulgogi, a beef dish served with vegetables on a sizzling hot plate, and Japanese favorites like

I was extremely excited that Blue Elephant serves a fantastic selection of entrees and appetizers made with tofu (make sure you sample the fried tofu to start -- it's to die for). They've also got an extensive selection of curry dishes made with creamy coconut milk and a variety of meats or vegetarian selections.

For those concerned (like I was about my aunt's cooking) about the spice of the dishes, don't worry. Each of the dishes can be made spiced to order --from nursing home tame to dragon breath hot.

After scanning a variety of foods, I decided to get the Chicken Papaya, a chicken dish with sliced papaya, carrots, nuts, green beans and served with jasmine rice.

I was, of course, a little leery at first. I like papaya, but I wasn't sure how well it would go with the rest of the ingredients. It seemed to me that fate had a better idea -- papaya is out of season, so I got apples instead, and it was amazing.

The flavor was so unique; the chicken was just a little bit spicy and the apples brought out a strong new flavor in the carrots. It was sweet, savory and fulfilling all at the same time -- something that doesn't happen too often.

This newly opened restaurant is sure to be a hit. It has great food, service and a fantastic atmosphere.

If there's one thing I have to say to Kokomo after my adventurous dining experience, it's "don't be afraid to try something new."

The selection and comfort of the Blue Elephant will definitely keep me -- and you -- going back.

        

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