Saladang

Martha Burr

Citysearch

The Scene
Postmodern, techno concrete, exposed pipes and enigmatic art set the stage at this always-crowded eatery. Bustling groups of locals have made this place a hot Thai spot for years now, so if you want a table, prepare to wait in line.

The Food
Restaurateur Dang Vattanatham has her finger on the pulse of Pasadena with dishes as refined and beautifully presented as any Norton Simon member could want. There are lapses--like greasy Saladang spicy noodles or catfish drowning in gloppy sauce--but soups are delicate and subtle, and the skewered deep-fried shrimp are a crispy, sinful nosh. The crab pot is a true masterpiece, a melange of silky mung bean noodles, juicy shrimp and plump crab claws. Traditional favorites shine, especially green curry frolicking with eggplant, coconut milk and basil, and the mildly spicy prik king (fresh green beans) with large, sweet scallops.