After opening restaurants in Dallas and Fort Worth, executive chef Eddie Thretipthuangsin – known as chef Eddie T. – ventured west to bring Eastern flavors to Colleyville.
Now, he is venturing back to his roots with his latest concept, NAPA Thai Cuisine. Located in the same spot as his last restaurant – Sai Fine Asian Bistro, which offered up an array of Asian dishes – NAPA still serves up the decedent dishes fans have come to expect. But his current menu now focuses on Thai flavors that ring true to chef Eddie T.’s upbringing.
“Basically we changed the entire restaurant,” Eddie T. explains. “The whole concept is more straight-up Thai cuisine.”
With shareable appetizers like the Fried Brussels Sprouts, halved pieces served crispy with shallots and tamarind chili sauce, and their signature NAPA's Shrimp, lightly breaded shrimp served with garlic, cilantro and sweet plum sauce, it's easy to find a few plates that will keep everyone satisfied. But save room for their famed
Duck Tamarind. The roasted duck spends hours being cooked down to render out the fat and crisp up the skin. The end result: blissful bites of tender meat served with crunchy textures, seasonal vegetables and chili tamarind sauce. While their mains feature a wide range of proteins, this plate is one that will have you coming back for more.
Round out the tasteful night out with one of their beautiful desserts, like their elegant Green Tea Cheesecake topped with fresh fruit or their Mango Sorbet served in a stemmed glass. The new concept also puts a higher focus on the aesthetics. NAPA's renovated interior showcases calming color schemes and beautiful décor, which helps guests feel like they are truly being treated to a fine dining experience.
“When you go out to eat, it's not just about the food,” Eddie T. says. “We want our guests to experience the feel of hospitality, our ambiance and get that relaxed and comfortable feel.”
Its atmosphere has inspired many locals to make NAPA their go-to date night spot, which has harbored this intimate vibe that lingers through the space.
“We want to be a true neighborhood gem,” Eddie T. says. “Every weekend, the tables are greeting each other because they all know each other. It has that charm that's similar to our community.”