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| - I saw a review from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette about how Papaya was serving up "authentic" and delicious Thai out in Robinson. As a person constantly bemoaning the current lack of authentic Thai food in Steel City, I felt it was my duty to cancel my current dinner plans to head out west to try out this Papaya place.
I'd have to agree with the reviewer. I didn't get very adventurous on this trip and simply got Tofu Pad Thai (at a 7/10 spice level) with Thai Ice Tea. It was divine and had no random non-traditional vegetables thrown in. The heat of the dish was good and I was provided with extra peanuts and chilis (not ground, but I'll take it). The lime wedge added that little extra sour to the dish that really set off the other flavors. The noodles were the perfect balance of soft and firm. The Thai Ice Tea was that excellent sweetness that took off the edge off the heat. I was very pleased.
Fortunately, I left room for the Banana Roti- a desert I have previously not encountered. It is AMAZING. If nothing else on the menu tempts your tastebuds, stop in for this desert. Roti are wrapped around sliced bananas and then fried and seasoned with chocolate and cinnamon. Simply a divine dish.
Two aspects of the meal were disappointing. The speed of the service was slower than I would have liked, but as there were ten tables (two of which had parties of six) and a single waiter, I will give Papaya a pass on this, especially when a second server appeared obviously late to work. The other aspect is simply a preference. I like my Thai food prepared in Thai exclusive restaurants as I am able to satisfy my cravings for the less popular dishes.
In a more competitive Authentic Thai market, Papaya might have have something to worry about, but right now, as it stands, those who love Thai should venture out west.
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