I Am Thai has delicious dishes, great service

Why: I Am Thai Eatery is a casual family-style restaurant serving Thai favorites for dining in or taking out, and the online ordering capability and quick service make it a viable lunch option if you are in the neighborhood and limited to an hour for lunch. Located in Salmon Creek, I Am Thai specializes in mouth-watering dishes and superb customer service.

What I tried: I tried the spicy duck, the Sriracha chicken wings, and the pad Thai with chicken.

My favorite flavor of the selections was the Sriracha chicken wings. The wings were sufficiently marinated with the popular spicy goodness of the sauce, which is included in a delicious coating on the exterior of each piece ensuring maximum flavor in every bite. They also presented a degree of crispness, which enhanced the appetizing quality. I would love to see a meatier portion prepared in this manner.

The pad Thai was traditional in every aspect, made with stir-fried noodles with egg and onions and garnished with bean sprouts and chopped peanuts. The chicken added to it was tender, although the ratio of chicken to noodles was a bit wanting.

I found the overall flavor of the duck entree generously punctuated with fragrant, fresh basil. The amount of duck included in the stir-fry served with jasmine rice was in balance with the rest of the ingredients, which included bamboo, onion, and bell pepper. The duck was tender and flavorful, and the small amount of skin left on each piece was not difficult to remove. Although the dish is described as spicy, I did not find it as such.

Menu highlights beyond what I tried: The bao bao, consisting of marinated chicken and vegetables in a fluffy bun, sounded good, as did the orange chicken which is made with chicken-breast tenders. Curry options include red, green, yellow, pineapple, panang, mussamun, pumpkin, and garden. The papaya salad made with papaya, peanuts, tomatoes, and string beans tossed in a chili lime dressing sounded delicious. From the grill, the sassy pork (grilled pork served with spicy lime juice) sounded intriguing. Desserts include honey toast, and sticky rice with either mango or ice cream.

Atmosphere: The eatery has a modern look and welcoming, cozy vibe. A warm, light, palette is lit by track lighting and natural light, which spills through the entry end of the space. Fabric panels at the door create a small, but sufficient designated entry apart from the dining floor. Farmhouse inspiration is found in the seating, which consists of sturdy, finished wood tables and benches, along with a few farm-style dining chairs. Small metal pails atop each table hold chopsticks, forks, and napkins. Unlike those of many Thai restaurants, the walls are free of ethnic items. Live plants add color, and a large, copper, bell-style fixture above the counter brings a touch of sparkle and adornment.

Other observations: The waitstaff is welcoming, courteous, and professional. The atmosphere is attractive and comfortable, and the food is authentically appetizing and quick to the table.

Peeking in the kitchen, it was impressive to see that it was organized and clean, and the chefs’ attire was professional.

Cost: Starters cost $5 to $8. Soups, noodle dishes, rice dishes, and curry dishes cost $10 with chicken, beef, pork, or tofu and $13 with shrimp. Salads range from $8 to $14. Grilled dishes are $12 and $14. Sides range from $1.50 to $3. Desserts cost $6 and $8. Lunch specials are $8 ($11 for shrimp and brown rice may be substituted for jasmine for $1).