Dining Tidbits

For May 2008: Union Pizzeria, Summer Noodle & Rice, Soul, Shochu

(page 2 of 4)

BUDGET BEAT
Summer Noodle & Rice
Though it sits next door to the bustling Granville el station, this Edgewater newcomer has a perfectly serene vibe. The shrine to Buddha helps, as do the welcoming staff and minimalist yet comfy d écor. Plenty of commuters have made Summer their to-go spot, but it is also a sunny destination for anyone with a yen for impeccably fresh, pretty Thai fare. The menu is extensive and inviting, augmented by a slew of Chinese items, but best to stick with the house forte: Thai. Jump right into appetizers of crisp-edged tofu triangles partnered with a sweet-tart chili sauce, dainty crab Rangoon, and a showy tepee-like formation of tempura-style sweet potato sticks. As its name implies, the restaurant has a way with carbs, offering spirited takes on classics such as glass-noodle-based pad woon sen ($6.95) and pineapple-laden curry fried rice ($7.95). Tossing chicken, duck, beef, tofu, or—best of all—hefty shrimp into the mix adds extra allure and another buck or two. To amp up the firepower, check out the lively mango shrimp, a sumptuous bounty of fried, tail-on beauties, diced sweet peppers, and juicy mango ($12). Delish. Even spicier is hot pop eyes ($7.95), a sultry pileup of curry- and chili-sparked spinach noodles and veggies. Finish with refreshing lychee sorbet, which provides just the ticket for cooling off Summer's heat. BYO. 1123 W. Granville Ave.; 773-761-8500. –Jill Rohde

Photography: Tyllie Barbosa; Food Styling: Christina Zerkis