Mai Thaiku has finally opened in the former Gaspare Italian Ristorante space at 6705 Greenwood Ave. N. It is the reincarnation of Thaiku, which was in Ballard for a decade before closing last year.
This picture was taken a couple of weeks ago as landscapers worked out front.
The restaurant has also revived its celebrated bar, Fu Kun Wu, although in a smaller version. (The bar in the former Thaiku was named one of the “Best Bars in America” by Esquire magazine in 2006 and 2011).
Mai (“new”) Thaiku uses original family recipes from Thailand. The menu categories include: Gahp Glam (bar food that goes well with drinks, $8-$12); Yaang (grilled on skewers, $2-$4 each); Som Tahm (seven different kinds of green papaya salad, $8-$9); Yum (various types of salad, $8-$12); Guaytiaw (noodles, $9-$12); and Ahaan Piset (special dishes, $11-$14).
General manager Unchalee “O” Ayucharoen was born and raised in the Jantaburi province of Thailand. Ayucharoen also managed Thaiku at the old location. The chef is Anne Sawvalak, who was born and raised in Bangkok.
Mai Thaiku is open seven days a week; from 12-11 p.m. Sunday, 4-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 4 p.m. – 12 a.m. Friday, and 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. Saturday. Happy hour is from 4-6 p.m. Phone is 206-706-7807. See their Facebook page for updates.
