Tukta Thai…truly a tremendous alliteration temptation. But aside from having a name that’s fun to say, just what does this Lake Highlands restaurant have to offer?
In a word, plenty. The menu is extensive, but luckily it includes photos of all the dishes to help in decision making. All the usual Thai offerings are there, done quite nicely: curries, stir-fried meats and vegetables, noodles, soups and fried rice.
But it’s known for its seafood, especially fish fried whole, like the Pra Rad Prik, or three tastes, shown here. It’s one of several whole fish dishes with excellent flavor and beautiful presentation.
And though the food is good, the atmosphere is even better. Not the exterior, by any means. It’s easily missed in its strip center location, with nothing special to lure passersby. But once inside, diners can easily forget there’s a service station just outside while they relax in one of the nicest dining rooms in Lake Highlands and enjoy the friendly, efficient service.
TUKTA THAI
9625 Plano
214-342-0121
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 5-10 p.m.
$
Pra Rad Prik (Three Tastes)
2 tablespoons vinegar
½ cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon red chili – ground
1 tablespoon garlic – ground
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon corn starch
½ cup basil
1 red snapper or catfish
Deep fry fish until done (usually takes about 10 minutes). Prepare the sauce by combining all of the ingredients and mixing thoroughly. Then pour sauce over fish. Add bell pepper and cilantro as desired, for color.
