When the first Bai Tong Thai Restaurant opened near SeaTac close to 30 years ago, authentic spices were so hard to find that the owners had to personally import them from Thailand. Anytime a friend or family member traveled to the U.S., they brought a suitcase full of spices.
Today, it’s easier to find not just fine spices, but fresh ingredients that were previously hard to come by. It’s one of the changes Bai Tong co-owner Noina Champayom sees in the local landscape. That, and the fact that Thai food is now widely popular.
It’s been just over a year since Bai Tong opened in Issaquah Highlands at Grand Ridge Plaza. The first Bai Tong restaurant, founded by Noina’s mother Chanpen Lapangkura expressly for Thai Airways flight crews, is still going strong. Over the years, the family has added a Redmond location as the younger generation inherited the management.
“The dinner hour at Bai Tong Issaquah is very family-oriented,” said Champayom. “While some kids prefer no spice, others request three stars. Eastside children love dining out and trying new dishes. They’re very cosmopolitan and it’s such a pleasure to be part of the family dining experience.”
With a team of chefs who trained in Bangkok, Bai Tong serves up favorites such as Crispy Garlic Chicken, Pad Kee Mao, and delicious curries. The kid’s menu includes milder options and classics such as Pad Thai and Chicken Satay.
Lunch is also great time to try Bai Tong, with quick service and inexpensive menu options that include a cup of soup and rice. Adult lunch options are about $8 or $9, and the restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan dishes. Their brown rice is highly recommended.
Later in the evening, Bai Tong fills up with moviegoers who are heading to Regal Cinemas across the street. The elegantly-appointed bar area, which offers bar and table seating, features a unique 3D mural of downtown Bangkok.
“We took extra care in the design and interior decorating of Bai Tong Issaquah, importing hand-crafted fixtures and art work from Thailand,” explains Champayom. “It’s an essential part of an authentic Thai experience for our guests. Traditional Thai hospitality is welcoming and gracious. We pride ourselves on creating a dining experience that’s tranquil for the mind and exciting for the palate.”
Champayom, who lives in Issaquah, loves being close to nature, and the trails and playgrounds. (Added bonus: The commute is only two minutes.) Her husband, Aor Champayom, plays a significant role at Bai Tong, where he manages the kitchen and supports staff training. He’s also known for his skills as a chef and baker, with his Coconut Cake getting rave reviews from kids (and their parents).
Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Bai Tong Thai Issaquah is located at 1520 Highlands Drive in Issaquah Highlands at Grand Ridge Plaza, next door to Apple specialists TD Curran. Bai Tong also offers takeout and catering services for large and small events. Call (425) 394-4473 to place an order or visit baitongrestaurant.com to see the full menu.
Parking: Free parking is available in the adjoining lot or across the street near Ulta Beauty and Marshalls.
Happy Hour: Bai Tong has two happy hours — 3 to 6 pm daily, 8:30 pm to close on weeknights, and 9 pm to close on weekends.
Bai Tong Thai Wine: Through a new partnership with Columbia Valley winemakers, Bai Tong just released its own Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay House Wines. A bottle of their Washington wine is $30. Guests can purchase a bottle as part of a takeout order for $26.
Directions and Parking at Grand Ridge Plaza: From I-90, take Exit 18 and follow E Sunset Way/Highlands Drive toward Issaquah Highlands. Continue on Highlands Drive for about half a mile to arrive at Grand Ridge Plaza. The shopping center offers plenty of free parking.
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