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Comments2-Minute Review: Thai Xpress
Thai one on (and quickly!) during your lunch hour.
Thai Xpress (948 S. Glenstone Ave., 417-865-0101) is a revelation. Located near the intersection of Glenstone and Grand, it’s speedy and to-go, reminiscent of (but totally tastier than) the ubiquitous Chinese restaurants that line Glenstone and Chestnut avenues.
The place: Thai Express is no-frills outside the kitchen. The parking lot is small and there is minimal seating, though the place is clean, with interesting Asian art on the walls to look at. The carry-out staff is quick and friendly.
The food: There are some Chinese dishes available, but a half-dozen curries and fruit-heavy sauces (mango, lemon, pineapple) mark the menu Thai, along with a range of spice levels (“low” to “crazy hot”). Small entrées run $3.95, specials in the $5.50 range. Soups, noodle dishes, stir-frys and fried rice dishes round out the menu. Best part: the menu promises “Clean Food,” which beats the alternative.
On a recent lunch hour I carried out the orange pork daily special ($7.25 after tax, with egg roll and 32 oz. drink) and wasn’t sorry. The pork was tender, the rice plentiful. Thai Xpress wins huge points for presentation; the sweet orange sauce was poured over the top with a semblance of care—it wasn’t day-glo orange glop. Others I know swear by the Jerry chicken ($4.50) and the Drunken noodle dish ($5.50).
The Verdict: I like Thai Xpress because it makes Thai accessible and affordable while remaining gourmet. If you’re intrigued, this is a great spot to give Thai a try.
