I'm going to keep it real here and let you know that my first impressions of Bac were really terrible. I had ordered some takeout the first week they were open, and I think they hadn't found their groove yet because my food lacked flavor and inspiration. It took a long time for me to get just 2 dishes and the service wasn't so friendly. I was bummed to say the least, as they are a mile away from me and had sweet happy hour specials.
BUT THEN
I tried Bac again after having a taste of some of my coworker's leftover papaya salad. (Which was splendid, btw.)
THANK GOODNESS I DID!
My impressions of Bac have completely changed. I think about eating their Tom Yum soup + Vegetarian Bahn Mi at least once per day. Their Bahn Mi is clearly the best in town and the tofu is superbly marinated and cooked.
The bartenders and waitstaff are super friendly and charming. Bac himself has been there cooking every time I visit, and he almost always comes out to check on how you're doing. Nice touch, man!
The happy hour specials are tight, the ambiance is laid back yet modern and stylish, and the music is always right up my ally. Its a great place to grab a quick yet delicious meal alone at the bar or take a date for a chill dinner in the chic dining room.
I consider myself a Cleveland-area Thai food connoisseur, and this place totally gets a two thumbs up.