This profile is the first in a biweekly series of spotlights on some of the city’s most interesting restaurants.
Formerly known as 4912 before reopening two years ago, Tanad serves both vegetarian and gluten-free dishes – without soy sauce or wheat – as well as Thai staples.
Located on Wisconsin Avenue between Ellicott and Fessenden Streets, Tanad has established itself as a staple in Tenleytown’s restaurant scene for more than 20 years. The ambiance is quiet, the service professional and friendly. Tanad has a relaxed, neighborhood feel.
Customers only occupy a table or two, allowing owner Tanad Baramee to converse with and serve each group amid the restaurant’s brisk business. A sidewalk patio can accommodate groups of hungry students.
“When the warm weather hits, there’s a long wait for patio seating,” Baramee said. “People love sitting outside.”
Tanad means “successful” in Thai, and the restaurant’s caliber of food ensures it’s just that. The light Tom Ka soup is a hearty appetizer. It has a prominent, savory sense of lime juice, basil and chili accompanied by a generous helping of chicken and a couple of mushrooms.
The Chili Basil Beef, one of Baramee’s recommendations, is the restaurant’s signature “spicy dish.” It consists of stir-fried meat with mélanges of chili, garlic, and basil leaves. Served with a bowl of steamed rice, the dish is hot and filling. The bold flavor of green chilis will satisfy those looking for a spicier option.
Two noodle dishes, the Pad Thai and Pad See (a new dish with wide noodles, broccoli, egg and a meat of your choice) are popular with college students, according to Baramee. Other favorites include Panang curry (rich flavor without overdoing it) and Drunken Noodles (tangy and full of flavor).
Along the usual Thai dishes, Tanad has an extensive menu with unique takes on dishes you won’t find in any other local Thai restaurant and the chef’s specials change regularly. The restaurant also offers a full bar.
Tanad is a great choice for AU students, parents and visitors who want great Thai at a reasonable price in a comfortable neighborhood setting.
Delivery from Tanad is available through Eat24, Grub Hub and Seamless, but you can get the food without a delivery fee by calling the restaurant directly. Free delivery is available within a 2-mile radius and the minimum order is $15 (before taxes).
Tanad lunch specials are $8.95 for soup and an entrée. A new menu rollout indicating gluten free and vegan items is scheduled soon.
