Bodhi

Every single signal walking into Bohdi is A+. There is a line of 15-20 people waiting to get in with a reservation - even before the doors open. Check in was super efficient. The interior is Incredibly attractive. Waters were already all poured and menus waiting at every table and along the bar - all lined up identically. Energetic music but not too loud.

Servers are a lot of 20 somethings in black t-shirts (with plenty of tattoos, of course) looking confident, hip, relaxed and replying with things like "right on" and "absoluuuuuutely" and "Thank you, my friend." When you made selections? "Beautiful! I love it".

There is no way to look at this place and not see that it is a great success. Even the menus are interesting and fun.

My first two dishes (appetizers) arrived and they were...fine. Well, one was fine. The Laab Pork Salad looked bright and fresh, and it was. I can't say it blew me away, but lots of yummy deliciousness. The pork skewers weren't even that. A huge disappointment to be sure.

I was still enjoying myself, what with the buzzy atmosphere, terrific gin drink and uber-friendly bartender. 

But then came the chicken pad thai. 

I love chicken pad thai. I have had plenty of chicken pad thai. How good can chicken pad thai really be?

THIS GOOD.

Holy hell. That plate of food was absolutely incredible. Each separate ingredient was tremendous but it was the heat in there which just made you go back for more, bite after bite. A truly superior plate of food.

They asked if I wanted to box what remained. I was on my way to dinner #2 but replied "I have no idea when I might get to it, but there is no way I am leaving food that good behind."

If you want to visit, get a reservation. The place is small and much in demand. For good reason. I'd love to come back with a group of folks and try dishes from across the menu. They all look incredible.

But that chicken pad thai will remain in my mind for a long time. It has likely ruined the dish for me at most other locations.