Salween Thai is a culinary experience that deserves to be raved about, yet it remains surprisingly under the radar in Des Moines’ vibrant restaurant scene. During a Friday evening visit between 6:30 and 7:35 p.m., my companion and I were the only diners enjoying a sit-down meal, while a few takeout orders were picked up. This quiet atmosphere is truly a missed opportunity because Salween Thai offers incredibly flavorful and budget-friendly food, setting itself apart from other Thai restaurants in Des Moines with its unique story and taste. The restaurant itself is clean and welcoming, and the staff are genuinely friendly, adding to the pleasant dining experience.
Unveiling the Authentic Flavors of Karen Thai Cuisine
What truly elevates Salween Thai is the fascinating story behind its exceptional food. Owned and operated by Karen immigrants, an ethnic group originating from southern and southeastern Burma, Salween Thai offers a distinctive culinary perspective. These owners are not of Thai descent but arrived in the United States as refugees from Thailand, known as “Karen ethnics.” This heritage infuses their interpretation of Thai cuisine with subtle yet significant nuances. While those familiar with Thai food will recognize the foundational flavors, Salween Thai distinguishes itself through the nuanced use of different salts and a richer incorporation of fish sauce, creating a deeper and more complex taste profile.
A Taste of Salween Thai: From Spring Rolls to Sweet Mango Rice
To begin our culinary journey, we opted for the spring rolls with tofu ($3.95). While not strictly vegetarian ourselves, we often find tofu to be an excellent protein choice in Asian cuisine, as it beautifully absorbs and complements the intricate spice blends. These spring rolls were exceptional, bursting with what tasted like fresh mint and perfectly paired with a sweet chili sauce. Every last piece was devoured with relish.
For the main course, I chose the Massaman curry with tofu ($8.95). Traditionally known as a milder curry, Salween Thai’s version featured broccoli, carrots, and peanuts bathed in a creamy coconut milk gravy, accompanied by a side of fragrant rice. I opted for a spice level of three out of ten, which proved to be just right for my palate, offering a gentle warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Our second entree was the classic Pad Thai ($7.95), a stir-fried rice noodle dish with egg, bean sprouts, peanuts, and a savory-sweet sauce. My husband, also requesting a spice level of three, found it a touch spicier than anticipated but still acknowledged the dish as an excellent choice overall, highlighting the well-balanced flavors and textures.
To conclude our meal, we ventured into uncharted dessert territory, selecting the sweet rice mango ($3.95) and a faluda ($2.95), neither of which we had previously encountered. A quick online search revealed faluda to be a popular Muslim specialty. Salween Thai’s rendition included vanilla ice cream, milk, and firm, gummy bear-like jellies in both flavor and texture. It was a pleasant and interesting dessert, though quite rich after a satisfying meal.
The sweet rice, served warm and drenched in a sweet syrup, was topped with half a peeled mango. While the presentation might not have been the most refined, it was, undeniably, the standout dessert of the two, offering a comforting and delightful sweetness.
Overcoming First Impressions: Why Salween Thai Deserves Your Visit
So, why is this exceptional culinary gem seemingly overlooked? The reasons, I believe, boil down to two factors: location and outward appearance. Salween Thai is situated on a busy thoroughfare, and the exterior of its 1949 concrete block building is, frankly, unremarkable. The yellow paint is showing signs of wear in places, and the landscaping, consisting of scraggly, self-seeded trees growing near the foundation, unfortunately creates a less-than-inviting first impression. Perhaps a small investment in some basic landscaping maintenance could significantly enhance its curb appeal.
This observation about the exterior is made with the understanding that Salween Thai’s other locations in Omaha and Ames are quite popular, as evidenced by their website and online customer reviews. The Des Moines location has the potential to be just as beloved and frequented.
Don’t let the unassuming exterior deter you. The culinary delights within Salween Thai are well worth discovering.
Find it: 3811 Douglas Ave., Des Moines
Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday
Info: 515-255-4338, Salween Thai Restaurant Website
