How does the movie go, " Same ,same, different, different"?
I was referred to Manola's and found they're under new management, so the time was perfect to come in with a clean slate.
Have to be honest, I never went to Manola's under the previous management. I should have, considering I love Thai and Vietnamese cooking. Although now, the new management says it's just Thai, with a few old Vietnamese favs still on the menu, albeit with a slight twist.
The first thing I noticed was quality carry out containers with extra foil layering to prevent spills on the way home, unfortunately it didn't make it that far because it smelled so good I had to crack them open right there in the car.
Now whenever I go to Thai place I get a few of the same thing as a control; Pad Thai, Tom Ka Gai (if they have it), and usually an appetizer, in this case, fried spring rolls.
The spring rolls were the small lumpia like egg rolls and they were fat and crunchy. Spot on with their light dipping sauce ( a sweet and sour variation on Nguac Cham).
The Tom Ka Gai ( Chicken coconut soup) was rustic and homemade. A perfect blend of lemongrass, citrus and coconut.
I've had Pad Thai at Thai temples, Thai homes, restaurants all over town, in little Thailand in LA, and I think I found a new fav. Their pad Thai was perfect! Saucy, not too dry. Filled with protein (9 shrimps!). Perfectly balanced tamarind, peanuts, and onion. Liked it so much went back the next day!
Day 2 was a Sat night so the parking lot was a little full with the Irish pub next door. They need to fill their bellies at Manolas before banging back some Guinness.
My second trip i went nuts and wanted to try a few things. Again none of which made it home, all devoured in my car, so excuse me for the lack of photos.
Beef Kra Pao with rice ( warm spiced, tender beef in a homemade sauce, of Thai basil)
Summer rolls ( fresh soft rice skin rolls filled with rice noodles, Thai basil, and fresh greens perfect with their thick peanut sauce)
Manola noodle bowl ( a Vietnamese bun/noodle bowl with a Thai twist) same,same but different,different.
Lastly we had to get more of that Tom Ka Gai, chicken coconut soup. The owner was so cool she made some fresh and sent me with the whole thing.
This place grasps the Thai concept of hospitality. It was like visiting ur Thai auntie who just wants to cook for and is so happy when you genuinely like it. The service always came with a smile and then some.
A homemade taste and feel, perfect for a quick lunch ( same great food on special) or a casual night with loved ones. Im definitely going back to try their mango and sticky rice and get more pictures! Kup! read more