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A Taste of Thailand

Just to clear things up, Thai is not Chinese food. It isn't anything like it, for that matter. But, if you have yet to give your buds a shot at this distinct specialty then you're missing out. If you feel like deviating from the norm of Chinese take-away, then there's a well kept secret here in Tucson known as Karuna's Thai Plate that you might want to try.

The reason this small Thai spot is a well kept secret may very well be because of its snug location off of Campbell and Grant.

There are a few things you should know up front before proceeding to Karuna's for dinner. For one thing, the service isn't the greatest. If you're there for the deliciously cheap lunch buffet, then it's easy: you pay, grab a plate, and enjoy. If you're visiting Karuna's for dinner however, the service can vary. Either you're attended to right away, or casually ignored for a minute. No sweat, just keep the food in mind and you'll survive this small obstacle.

If you're unfamiliar with Thai food, then Karuna's menu will certainly peak your curiosity. Browse it and you'll notice specialties like the Chuchee Fillet of Cod, a fillet of Cod saut­ed in Chuchee curry and basil leaves, topped with coconut cream and Keiffer lime juice. In the salad section you'll run into the Soam Tum Thai salad which is shredded green papaya with Thai chili, dried shrimp, peanuts, lime juice and tomatoes or salty crab. The hot curry entrees are also a Thai delicacy available here.

The entrees are served on a large oval tray so that everyone in your party can try a little of everything. One of the best traditional Thai plates that is a must have at any meal (besides steamed rice) is the Pad Thai, a portion of soft fried rice noodles and a choice of chicken, pork or shrimp with eggs and bean sprouts, topped with crushed peanuts and green onions.

The service may not be the greatest, but the food makes it worth while. One final word: Karuna's is ridiculously cheap (suddenly not-so-great service doesn't matter as much anymore, eh?). Most of the entrees and specialty plates run between $4.50-$5.95 with a few falling just under $7.00. The all you can eat lunch buffet is $4.99.

So be adventurous and try some Thai cuisine, where your taste buds will be delighted and your wallet won't suffer.