When looking for some place different to try, one may not be inclined to try a locally owned restaurant. Someone once told me that they tended to stick to the chain restaurants because they knew what they were going to get even if it was not all that great. I guess some are afraid a locally owned will not be good and their money would be wasted. Sometimes the best restaurants are those locally owned little hidden gems that seem to be a best kept secret. That is what Nan’s Thai Noodle in Port Charlotte is.
We discovered them on the recommendation of a local resident. Turns out they are in the same plaza as Danato’s that we had previously reviewed. We never noticed this delightful hidden gem. From the outside one could easily bypass trying this restaurant. According to their website they are known for their traditional, authentic Thai food and Asian Fusion Cuisine.
The décor is minimalist in nature, but it is warm and friendly. The food here is the real star though. Their service is spot on which such gives you another reason to give them a try.
We tried a variety of different menu items. We started with some sushi. What a presentation! It tasted as wonderful as it looks. We also tried the Pho noodle soup ($13) that has rice noodles, bean sprouts, basil, onions, scallions, and cilantro with your choice of chicken, pork, beef, or tofu. The portion is huge and the presentation excellent. What about the flavor you ask? Simply delicious. Our dining partner liked it so much that they took an order to go home with.
The Shrimp Volcano ($16) is lightly battered and fried shrimp sautéed with red chili sauce over mixed vegetables. The shrimp was outstanding and was perfectly spiced for a level 2. Just enough kick to add to the flavor without it being overpowering. The presentation was really clever.
The Pineapple Curry with Chicken ($13) has Coconut milk, red curry paste, bell peppers, pineapple chunks and basil leaves. If you love curry you will love this dish. The curry as well as the level 2 spice made it flavorful but not overpowering.
While the outside of Nan’s Thai Noodle could be deceiving once you enter and enjoy their many dining options you will be glad you gave them a try.
Nan’s Thai Noodle
1900 Tamiami Trail #112, Port Charlotte, FL
Overall rating: Excellent
