Sala Thai's long time owner Nick left a few years ago to start Thai Palace in Edmond, the restaurant that I think not only sets the standard for Thai food in Oklahoma, but has some of the best Thai food in the nation. "Mrs. Nick" continued to operate the restaurant until late 2006 when new owners took over. While many people may continue to visit this 23rd Street institution out of loyalty to the food Nick and his wife introduced, the new management faces a tough job living up to that standard.

My initial impression of the "new" Sala Thai is that the food is quite good, and may even be better than has been the case in the past few years since Nick left. The new owners have kept the extensive menu they inherited with enough choices to either make a Thai food aficionado go wild or to leave a person so perplexed they will need to ask for suggestions. Like any type of cuisine, there is a learning curve when a person is first introduced to it, and Thai food presents one of the best opportunities to experience delicious healthy cooking.

At the "old" restaurant the Ginger Thai Style with tofu was one of my favorite dishes. Using what I believe is a safe assumptions that the new owners are preparing food that is at least as good as was served previously, this should still be a good choice, especially for those who do not want to order the spiciest dishes right off the bat.

Spicy Green Bean made with Prig Khing Curry

I am not sure if the lunch specials are still available. These were served between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. with a choice of any three items, either with meat or vegetarian. The lunch special is a good way to sample the food at Sala Thai, and get a price break as well.