Dine-in Sat 7/29/23 7p
Looking for a change from Vietnamese cuisine in Bellaire? I highly recommend giving Lao'd District a try. This restaurant is situated in a bustling strip alongside other shops and eateries. However, it's worth noting that parking may be limited, so it may not be ideal for larger groups. The interior is adorned with funky wall graffiti art, showcasing the vibrant Laotian culture and adding a lively atmosphere to the place. Due to its small size, there is a limited number of tables, but we were fortunate enough to be seated immediately upon arrival.
The menu at Lao'd District utilizes a convenient QR code system, providing guests with easy access to the menu. By scanning the QR code provided on our table, we were directed to the app, where we could conveniently place our orders and make payments directly. However, we were later informed by our server that there was a connectivity issue between the app and the restaurant, requiring the server to manually write down our order.
Despite this minor setback, I decided to sample several dishes. Among them, the standout options were the delectable Crack Belly, the flavorful Steak Tiger Cry, and the refreshing Crab Papaya Salad.
The Crack Belly at Lao'd District consists of lightly battered and seasoned pork belly, tossed in a delightful sweet chili sauce. The outside of the pork belly is perfectly crispy, while the sweet chili glaze adds a wonderful combination of sweetness and heat, making it a truly delicious dish.
Another standout option is the Steak Tiger Cry, which features marinated sous vide picanha cut steak, thinly sliced and served with a homemade sweet and savory lime sauce. The steak is cooked to perfection, resulting in a soft, tender texture that simply melts in your mouth. The homemade dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and complements the dish beautifully.
And now, let's talk about my personal favorite, the Crab Papaya Salad. This delightful creation includes fermented crab, papaya, tomato, eggplant, long bean, and is served with vermicelli and cabbage. The papaya provides a satisfying crunch, while the lime imparts a refreshing sourness. The umami sauce from the crab and the spiciness from the fresh Thai chili pepper create a flavor explosion in every bite. Notably, the fermented crab doesn't have a fishy taste, which adds to the overall appeal of this dish.
Overall, Lao'd District offers an energetic ambiance along with its exceptional culinary delights that showcase the diverse and vibrant flavors of Laotian cuisine. Each dish boasts its own unique combination of textures and tastes, leaving a lasting impression on your taste buds. read more