What makes Thai food special in Cuenca — The Thai Connection

Susan: What are some of your most popular dishes?

Mex & Wan: Our spring rolls are very popular — they are listed as an appetizer but our customers always tell us our portions are large enough for a main course. Pad Thai, which many people are familiar with, is always made to order and is one of the most popular dishes. Pad Thai is made from rice noodles, so it is naturally gluten-free.  The dish includes broccoli, cabbage, bean sprouts and tamarind sauce: add organic chicken, pork, or shrimp, or a mix of all three if you choose.

Another popular dish is our special Thai fried rice, either vegetarian, or with beef, chicken or shrimp, or a mixture of all three.  This dish is served in a pineapple — it’s very dramatic and delicious.  Some prefer to skip the rice, so we do a beautiful stir-fry of fresh vegetables with your choice of protein.

Soups are very popular, and we offer the very popular tom kha gai, a savory soup with shrimp, coconut milk, tomatoes, garlic, mushrooms, and lemongrass. The green curry soup and garlic pepper chicken are also favorites.

Susan: Is Thai food spicy?

Wan: It can be, if you like it that way. Traditionally, Thai food is slightly spicy, more tangy or peppery than hot. But some people prefer more heat — you tell us what you like, and we’ll make it to your taste. We always advise people to start lighter — you can always add more heat, but you can’t take it back.

Susan: I see that you’re serving a special Austrian lunch on Tuesdays?

Mex: Yes, this is by request! As I have been getting to know my customers here in Cuenca, I’ve found that many are interested about my Austrian background. Each Tuesday we feature a Austrian/German specialty  for lunch, usually from a recipe from my own family.  Last week’s special was Chicken Stroganoff, served with salad, mashed potatoes or rice, dessert and fresh fruit juice, all for only $6.90.  This week we made an old family recipe that represents my heritage, Spaghetti Bolognese Austrian/Italian style — made from organic beef, fresh herbs and spices, served with our homemade coleslaw, dessert and fresh juice.

And of course, our Thai menu is available on Tuesdays too!

Wan, Mex and Susan at the Thai Connection.

Susan: I like this location, because it’s an easy walk or direct bus from El Centro. What makes it good for you?

Mex & Wan: We like the space because it’s bright, open, and easy to get to, now that the road construction on Gran Colombia has been completed in front of the building. Our open kitchen has been totally remodeled to our specifications. We can seat up to 40 people comfortably, plus we have a dining bar so that if you’re a single, you don’t have to take a table, which is a real attraction for many.

If you’ve been craving authentic Thai food, or you’re looking forward to your first visit, Thai food is flavorful and fresh, with balance and variety. Each dish has its unique character, and at the Thai Connection, you’re served with a flair and warm attention to detail. Thai Connection has only been open for a couple of months, but the reviews on TripAdvisor.com are guiding visitors to their door. Bring a friend, because the portions are big! They serve beer and wine, and a variety of soft drinks.

And if you like Austrian, don’t hesitate to contact Mex — he’s fielding special requests for his special Tuesday lunches.

They deliver, and with a little advance notice, they will cater your party or dinner.

Thai Connection: Authentic Thai Cuisine

Address: Eduardo Crespo Malo y Gran Colombia, next to Common Grounds Sports pub

Open: Tuesday thru Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM

Closed: Sunday & Monday

Telephone: 099 224 4332

Facebook: Check for weekly specials and Tuesday’s Austrian Menu

Map

Sources:

Sawadee.com: Thai Food & Fruit. http://www.sawadee.com/thailand/food/

Wikipedia.com: Thai Cuisine. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_cuisine