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Community Corner

Thai It Up

Escape to Umpasri Authentic Thai Cuisine in Cherry Hill this weekend.

One of my favorite things about South Jersey: The fabulous BYOB restaurants tucked away in strip malls and plazas.

This weekend, skip cooking and escape to Umpasri Authentic Thai Cuisine, located on Route 38, in Plaza 38, in Cherry Hill. It is the kind of place you might drive by if no one told you about it. It is also the kind of place where, once you go, you are hooked for life.

Thai food is like a flavor explosion in your mouth. Each bite is a little spicy (or a lot if you roll that way), a little sweet and has fresh notes of ingredients like cilantro and lemon grass. Umpasri does it right with a varied and bright menu. Each and every course is worth sampling (so bring friends.)

My new favorite soup: the lemongrass soup (or Tom-Yum-Goong). It is tangy. It is spicy. It makes you want to lick the bowl. 

The appetizers are varied and portions are just right for sampling lots of smalls plates. I tried the Thai spring rolls, steamed dumplings, satay, fried tofu and fried calamari—all magnificent. 

And of course, the main event: the entrees. There are curries and noodles and noodle bowls and rices. But, the ever so popular Pad Thai (which can be vegetarian or served with shrimp, squid, beef, chicken, or pork) is a winner. The portion size is just right for sharing (or leftovers for lunch).

The staff is attentive, even greeting customers in the parking lot with umbrellas in a downpour. They are also accommodating with food preferences and were more than happy to make slight changes to dishes for vegetarian friends.

Soups and appetizers range in price from $4.50 to $6.50. Entrees are around $9. Weekday lunch specials start at $7.95. Umpasri is located at 2442 Route 38 (westbound), Cherry Hill. The resturant is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. It's closed on Sundays.

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