Thai Orchid

If authentic Thai cuisine is what you're looking for, Thai Orchid at 6219 South Highland Drive is the place to go. Chef Perayut Kayonsonrouj creates his dishes from recipes handed down from generations of cooks in his homeland of Thailand. Perayut, or Uncle Yut as he's affectionately called, learned to cook with these recipes and has perfected them, says friend Matt Titus.

"The food is flavorful and mild," Matt says. "There is something for everyone at the Thai Orchid. The dishes can be customized for the customer too. If someone wants their curry a little hotter, that can be done."

By shopping locally and providing the freshest ingredients, Uncle Yut has been able to keep his prices competitive with other Thai restaurants in the area. His recipes feature the freshest meat and vegetables that can be found, which gives his dishes a fresh, flavorful taste. He purchases his Thai basil and sprouts from a special supplier who provides him with a large supply of fresh spices he uses to make his dishes stand out from the competition.

Matt says that once you eat at Thai Orchid, you will be hooked. Some of the most poplar dishes are Uncle Yut's curries and the Chicken Satay, which Yut makes from thigh meat and his own special Satay sauce. The chicken marinates overnight in Thai spices and Satay powder. It's then served with a creamy peanut sauce.

Matt says the attention to detail sets Thai Orchid apart from other restaurants that serve Thai food.

Thai Orchid has been at its present location for more than six years. Stepping inside, the smells and authentic Thai décor gives diners the feeling of being transported back to Thailand. The atmosphere is very casual and family friendly. Yut is often seen milling around the dining room talking to diners, making sure their food is good and that they are comfortable.

In addition to the savory Thai dishes, Yut has also created several delicate desserts to finish off the perfect Thai feast. He uses the freshest fruits to make his custards and other dishes.

Thai Orchid also features more than a half dozen tasty appetizers for every palette. Fried Thai spring rolls, Chicken Satay and Thai dumplings are just a few choices diners have when choosing how to start their meals.

"Yut goes the extra mile for his customers, and tries to make his dishes more authentic than his competitors," Matt says.

Thai Orchid is open for lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. It are open for dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until 9:30 p.m. on Friday. Saturdays it is open from noon to 9:30 p.m. The restaurant can be reached at 801-274-3000.

For more information about Thai Orchid's dishes and to view its menu, visit www.thaiorchidutah.com.