Art Show | Tucson Citizen | Best of Tucson | Best Thai in Tucson | Restaurateur-Activist | Vila Thai | Asian Influence

Tucked above University Blvd is one of those precious finds that makes you feel proud to be an intrepid explorer. Vila Jarrell and her partner and chef Maliny Phengsavanh (Joy), have opened a wonderful Thai restaurant in the middle of the busy university district.

We were delilghted to meet Joy, who explained her love of cooking, her adventures in restaurant ownership, and the long journey from Thailand to Tucson. The restaurant, opened in December 2006, already appears to have a loyal following.

But - I must describe the food. Oh my. My companion and I each tried a different dish - noodles with broccoli and tofu, tom yum soup with chicken, the larb (mint) salad with chicken and coarse roasted rice, and the wonderfully refreshing som tum (shredded green papaya salad). All were fresh, properly seasoned, balanced and nicely presented by our cheerful and attentive server.

We split dessert, a delicious, not too sweet, black rice pudding. While we ate, we planned our next visit (maybe tomorrow!).

These two friendly and talented women have created a clean, charming and relaxing environment in which to showcase their cuisine. I hope our discovery doesn't make this place too popular - but it would be wrong not to share such a lovely place with others.

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