Thai X-ing (pronounced: Thai crossing) is a tiny restaurant on a residential street in Washington D.C. Well, basement apartment turned into restaurant, which is why it is on a residential block. Placed on the middle of the block with row homes on either side to the end of the block, you would never know of its existence if it weren’t for the smell of a Bangkok market from a block away, which gets increasingly strong as you approach the restaurant. Thai X-ing uses spices in abundance—if spicy isn’t your taste, then Thai X-ing has limited option for you.
The renovation of an apartment into a restaurant provides an intimate, homey feeling. There is only one table inside that seats eight people. You feel like you have been invited into a home for dinner, and in a way, you have. What used to be the backyard is now a courtyard with two tables that each seat two, with brightly blue painted brick walls and red light bulbs in the trees. The limited seating signals it is best to make a reservation a week in advance. If you have a sudden craving for authentic Thai food, walk-ins are nearly impossible, but no worries; Thai X-ing deliveries, and a second location with a garden is under construction.
What makes this place worth the planning and the waiting is the fantastic, authentic food. This place doesn’t just smell of Bangkok, it tastes like it, too. The chef/owner Taw Vigsittaboot serves traditional, home-style Thai recipes that have been passed down from his dear old granny. Thai X-ing offers a pre-fixed menu of the chef’s choice for an even more home-style, genuine Thai experience. Pricing varies according to day and number of people in your party. You’ll eat whatever your Thai parents put on the table.
Featured image from http://www.thaix-ing.com/
