Wednesday, March 19, 2003

Ethnic options exploding on the Southside

By F.C. FOODIE
Food Critic

Oh, what a difference a few years make.

When I first started this column several years ago, I bemoaned the lack of true ethnic dining in our area. Sure, there were a few Chinese places scattered around, but if you wanted anything else, you had to make the long trip into the city.

The dining landscape has changed dramatically, and I'm hopeful these restaurants will be a permanent part of our restaurant options.

I'm truly amazed at the number of Thai restaurants that now call Fayette home. One of the first to open was Thai-Land of Smiles on Ga. Highway 54 east, just outside Fayetteville.

It was quickly joined by Thai Spice at The Avenue in Peachtree City and Papaya Thai in the Kedron shopping center in Peachtree City.

In the last few weeks, two more Thai restaurants have opened their doors. Thai Jasmine is on Hwy. 54 west between Fayetteville and Peachtree City, while Tarathai is in the Banks Crossing shopping center in Fayetteville.

Tarathai is a beautiful space. Through the use of linen curtains and recessed lighting, the restaurant conveys an image of elegance.

The food is also quite good. I enjoyed the chicken with cashew nuts, and the restaurant features some of the usual suspects you find at Thai eateries spring rolls, chicken satay with peanut sauce and delicious iced teas and coffees.

The portions are large and feature sauces that you can order according to your tolerance of spices. Even the most inexperienced Thai food diner can enjoy the mild sauces, which just offer a hint of heat.

Another ethnic eatery that's opened just over the border in Clayton County is India Palace. The restaurant is on Ga. Highway 85, halfway between Pointe South and Ga. Highway 138.

The restaurant features genuine Indian cuisine and the owner is very friendly and will offer suggestions on items.

Indian cuisine can also be quite spicy, but he will make the dishes to tantalize your taste buds, without creating a fire alarm.

With these additions to the dining scene popping up on a regular basis, Fayette's dining reputation is maturing and reaching for a higher level.

Correction: Last month, Foodie incorrectly identified Deli Delicious as Deli Delight. I must have been overwhelmed by my dining experience, because it was a true delight to dine there. I apologize for any confusion caused by the name snafu.

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