The Thai phrase “paa dee” literally means “to bring good things.” This aptly named Portland spot provides plenty of goodness in the form of food and drink, as well as a whole other restaurant. Yes, Paadee also houses a sister restaurant called Langbaan; an intimate, reservation only dining experience that is consistently booked full. If you want a reservation, be prepared to schedule out about 6 months.
Thankfully Paadee itself is a bit more casual. With large bright windows, like those from https://maverickwindows.com/window-replacement-austin/, hanging plants and birdcage lighting, it’s a fun and inviting spot to grab a meal or a refreshing beverage. Their main thing is serving up Thai comfort food but hey, we’re here for the drinks.
Take a seat at Paadee’s bar right when you walk in and chances are you’ll meet bar manager Jon Lewis. I recommend asking him for one of his most popular original creations; the Modern Luk Thep. Lewis has made this tasty mezcal-based cocktail at various Portland food and beverage events and the drink has even gained some popularity via social media.
“It’s kind of in the Division Bell/Last Word territory,” says Lewis. It’s fairly simple as far as recipes go, but you’ll find that it’s a truly perfect combination of flavors.”
Modern Luk Thep recipe and preparation
- 1 oz. Mezcal Espadín
- .75 oz. Aperol
- .75 oz. Grapefruit juice
- .5 oz. Passionfruit syrup
- 1 dash orange bitters
Place all ingredients in a shaker tin. Add ice and shake. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with marigold blossoms.
Paadee details
6 SE 28th Ave. Portland, OR 97214; paadeepdx.com; @paadeepdx
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