1st of Thai

Conjuring to mind a string of fierce competitors, amongst whom it has come out on top, 1^st of Thai in Faribault, Minnesota, may very well be the only Thai restaurant between Apple Valley and Rochester. Certainly it seems misplaced, nestled into an unassuming strip mall storefront with barely so much as a waving cat to give the impression of ambiance. None of this, however, holds bearing on the food at 1^st of Thai, which is a saucy, lip-tinglingly satisfying experience. The standard round up of dishes on a Thai menu are present; the noodle dishes, including the classic Pad Thai and the notable, if decidedly Chinese-influenced, Raadna noodles are good, but standard, and have a noodle to vegetable ratio that will disappoint those searching to really dig their chopsticks in. Where the menu truly shines is in the curries, with a delicious, authentic-tasting array of choices, featuring a variety of vegetables and protein options. Despite regional reputation, 1^st of Thai is not afraid to up the spice, and in the process, flavor, when the discerning customer requests it. A special standout, the Curry Sauce Noodle Soup has the mounds of rice noodles missing from the other dishes, as well a generous serving of tofu, submerged in a deceptively-sweet red curry broth, drizzled with sweat-inducing chili oil. Ask for more oil on the side to get the full experience.

The rest of the menu covers a range of meat and fish dishes, some in Thai styles, some more likely to be found in on an American Chinese takeout menu. The appetizer list is standard, and those looking to indulge their Midwestern sensibilities can find a textbook, and delicious, cream cheese puff. The fried tofu is best skipped, however, lacking in the way of seasoning. Though not worth a pilgrimage from the Twin Cities, perhaps, where the Thai options are plentiful indeed, 1^st of Thai is at least deserving of the trek from Northfield, solidly meeting most expectations where it does not exceed.