“Street food” may be getting some traction as a trend in cuisine circles but it’s still not a common phrase you hear much yet around Atlanta. Chef Deedee Niyomkul, the daughter of the owner of the famed Nan Thai and Tamarind Seed, hopes to change that with Tuk Tuk. Named after the small, three-wheel taxi found in the heart of Bangkok, Tuk Tuk attempts to bring the food of Thailand’s street vendors into the former Taurus location at the edge of Buckhead and Midtown.

As far as the atmosphere, the only thing remotely close to the feel of a Bangkok street is the option to sit on their superb second-story patio looking out over the traffic on Peachtree. Beyond that, the dining room is a clean, modern Asian space that doesn’t inspire you, but it also doesn’t detract from the food either.

Hardcore dining critics can dive into the debate of what exactly on the menu constitutes “street food.” Our experience at Tuk Tuk delivered a good balance of traditional Thai favorites and casual small plates that ventured into a mix of authentic and modern creations. We tried and liked the Mieng Kum, Moo Yang, Pad Zee U, and Kra Pow Moo. Most small plates and entrees run $8 to $14.

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 22nd, 2010 at 10:21 am and is filed under Food.