Outside of Thai Thai's

Thai Thai’s is a new restaurant that opened in the new Stoney Run section in Newport News.  This is the new shopping/living/eating complex at the corner of Jefferson and Denbigh. 

Thai Thai’s is a takeout restaurant that also has some inside seating.  When you walk in, it looks very clean and welcoming.  The lady at the register was very nice and courteous.  You can eat in or take out.  My husband and I decided to eat in. 

Once we ordered, we sat down and waited.  It took just under 10 mins for our food to come out.  They were super quick.  I ordered Pad Thai with tofu and my husband ordered Pad See-Ew with tofu.  Both dishes were delicious and a good size.  We ordered regular which is currently $6.95 ($8.95 for large).  I also ordered Thai Tea.  The Thai Tea wasn’t the best I’ve had but it was still good.

They even have a separate ‘Vegetarian Dishes’ section which is so nice.  Some options include Mixed Vegetables, Pad Pak, Tofu (steamed or fried), and Vegetable Pad Thai .  The Vegetable Pad Thai is loaded with vegetables – different than the meal I ordered.  I like the traditional one with tofu a little better so that is why I didn’t get the loaded vegetable one. 

They have a set up like Panera where you leave the dishes and trays on top of the trash can when you are done.  It was a great first experience at Thai Thai’s and we will definitely be back.

Osaka Sushi Bar

Osaka Sushi Bar in Stoney Run Shopping Center in Newport News was a nice surprise.  My husband and I went on a week night and they weren’t busy at all.  It was just us and one more couple.  The atmosphere was nice thought not overly Asian themed.  They don’t have an overwhelming selection of vegetarian options but I like how they label their rolls as “c” for cooked, “u” for uncooked, and “v” for veggie.  Be sure to not confuse the U’s for V’s.  The best veggie roll that I’ve tried there is the cucumber avocado roll.  It had roasted sesame seeds around the rice that really added to the flavor.  It was delicious!  The service was quick and friendly and the price was just right ($3.50 for the cucumber/avocado roll).  I will definitely go back.

I love Silver Diner.  Or, perhaps I should say, I loved Silver Diner.  They had the best veggie burger bites ever – granted they are made with what I think are the Morning Star sausage patties and barbecue sauce, they are still better than my homemade ones… Much better actually. 

When we went after work on Tuesday, August 5th, we were all really looking forward to our regular veggie burger bites.  Even the two non-vegetarians with us were wanting to get it – we always do because they are so good.  To our complete dismay, they told us that they no longer served it!  Our jaws dropped.  Now, they had a veggie black bean burger that replaced it – but they were out of that.* 

We ended up getting different things – veggie griddle and eggs benedict (without meat).  I was tempted to go eat somewhere else but stayed because we wanted to support MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association).  They had a fundraiser that day.

Anyway, the food we got was pretty good but not comparable to the veggie burger bites.  I do have to say that Silver Diner (at least in Newport News) has great service.  The servers are very friendly and do what they can to make you happy.  When you order one milkshake and say you want to share, they’ll bring out two with whipped cream and a cherry on each!  It’s awesome!  Granted, if you don’t share, you still get your regular shake and a tin can on the side with the leftovers.  It’s like getting two for the price of one!

Despite my recent letdown, I would like to say that Silver Diner is a fine place to dine with many vegetarian options – chili, griddles, omlets, and other breakfast items.  They have great desserts and excellent staff!  Their prices are also reasonable.

*Note: After trying the spicy black bean burger on another visit, it was EXCELLENT!  One of the best veggie burgers I have tried anywhere (in recent memory).