Like many other discoveries, Yelp has yet again led me to another amazing one - Rice Box Kitchen.
Being Asian (Filipina to be exact), I grew up with rice as a staple for every meal. Hearing Rice in the name of a restaurant was music to my ears.
I quickly called in and placed an order for one of their signature dishes - KHAO MUN GAI (Poached chicken skinless chicken thighs over coconut, ginger and garlic rice served with soybean chili sauce).
It was a dish that sounded so simple yet was so complex in its simplicity. It was quality ingredients cooked to perfection and served in a way that was harmonious and comforting.
At first taste, these were my thoughts, that the meal was, comforting. Later, after looking up Parapol's story on his website, I found that his motivation for his restaurant was to share the same gift of comforting meals that he himself was lucky to experience with meals created for him in childhood by his mother.
Perapol serves up his signature dishes, select dim sum, and has recently added Shabu Shabu, a Japanese style meal in which thin-sliced meats and other ingredients are cooked in a pot of boiling broth on the table and served with a dipping sauce. If you follow RBK on Instagram, you can stay up-to-date with seasonal changes to their menu and hours.
Being a fan of his food, I didn't hesitate in signing up for a slot. I picked the 5pm slot on Friday since I wanted enough time for my three little ones to eat without being rushed to bedtime.
Upon arrival for our all you can eat Shabu Shabu, Perapol greeted me and my family with a smile, as he always does, and we sat down at a nicely placed table.
We circled our desired types of sides, noodles, meats, and veggies, and waited anxiously (with the enticing fragrance of the broth filling the room).
I suggest tasting a little of everything since it's included in all you can eat.
The drinks were a separate charge and were worth every penny. We ordered two of each of their hibiscus fresca and Thai lime tea. They were incredibly refreshing and although I'm a water type of person, these would be the exceptions. Other drink options include teas and beer.
As soon as the tower (similar to a tiered tower found at tea parties) arrived loaded with fresh, well-presented, ingredients, my kids didn't hesitate and all participated in placing some ingredients into the pot.
After a short moment, everything was cooked and everyone dug in. Silence hit and all I heard was "Mmm" all around the table.
We had run into the perfect meal to welcome in the chilly breeze and we were in pure bliss.
We were completely consumed in the warmth of the broth and the fresh ingredients that could be dipped in Perapol's tangy peanut sauce and combined in all sorts of ways between so many ingredients.
This meal completely satisfied our taste buds, tummies, and hearts. Despite us being full, we felt pretty healthy, having consumed the equivalent of a magical food rainbow.
Our meal was topped with a yogurt drink I grew up with, Yakult, which is refreshing and highly a
addictive. You can find it at 168 Asian Market if you would like more.
The restaurant also sells mochi bars (an asian style dessert made with rice flour) that are unique to Reno and super fun and delicious to eat. They come in all sorts of flavors - sesame, matcha green tea, ube, and chocolate. They come in cute boxes that would be suitable for any occasion. They are a must.
Perapol is the small business owner behind this amazing food and one of the nicest and most hardworking people I know that puts in so much work everyday towards his business. He does so with passion, a smile, and the intent to provide the best possible experiences for his guests.
From the restaurant and food to the details on the table and service, Perapol has thought everything out completely.
I followed the Caldor Fire closely and noticed how Perapol jumped right in and offered his food to victims and displaced people in need.
To give selflessly is something highly commendable in my book, and this trait, along with Perapol's delicious food, work ethics, and presence everyday to serve and make people happy is something that contributes to my new found love for Perapol and his business. I wish him nothing but success.
After eating at Perapol's restaurant, I developed my own understanding of "Eat, Drink & Gossip" written on his wall. For me, it translated to "Eat, Drink, and Feel Human," because when Parapol "gossips" with every single customer, he is acknowledging human need for being acknowledged and feeling important.
Thanks Perapol for your hospitality, taking care of our community, and a big thanks for serving your heart on a platter.
*save when paying with cash
*vegetarian friendly
*Batch Cupcakery and Great Full Gardens next door.
*shabu shabu pay per person. adults and 7+ rates. Must reserve a slot weekends - 90 mins dining time
*restroom with baby changing table
*midtown read more