Sen Yai Sen Lek: a Thai Food Gem in NE

After one of my recent closings, Sharlene asked where I wanted to go for a celebratory lunch. Without hesitation, I suggested Thai food at Sen Yai Sen Lek on Central Ave NE near the intersection of NE Lowry Ave. Of course, there’s backstory.

For several years, my profession of choice entailed donning a wetsuit and scuba gear, acting as an underwater tour guide to divers, both novice and experienced alike. The name of this job is Divemaster, and in this and similar roles, I’ve accumulated more than a month of time underwater. That’s right—the equivalent of a full month of my life has happened at depth, while sucking on a regulator attached to an air tank strapped to my back, with toes and fingers pruning up from prolonged submersion. For part of that time, I lived in Thailand, diving daily in the Andaman Sea.

Dream job, indeed.

So I know Thai food. That’s not to say I can cook Thai food, but I can appreciate when I taste the good stuff. And the places where it tastes right are few and far between here in the North Country. But I love Sen Yai Sen Lek. Part of the reason is the ethos of the place. On their website, they name their guiding principles as family ownership, cultural authenticity, social and environmental responsibility, and community orientation. 

Placards on the table request keeping currency in the community (i.e. they prefer you pay in cash). You won’t find MSG in the food; ingredients are locally sourced and organic whenever possible, and wheat-free, vegetarian, and kids’ menus are readily available. Most importantly, the food is delicious. Add in a great beer and wine list, and you really can’t go wrong—for date night, an outing with friends (Fair State Brewing Cooperative is within walking distance), or lunch with clients or colleagues.

Been to Sen Yai Sen Lek, or do you recommend a better Thai restaurant in the TCs? Share on our Facebook page! 

Angela Anderson, 612-396-3654

Realtor, Results Support Services: EMAIL — BIO

Licensed Associate Working with Sharlene Hensrud of RE/MAX Results, and HomesMSP — Sharlene, John, Angela

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