Hidden gems are often neighborhood favorites tucked away somewhere one might least expect them, but well loved and patronized by those who live nearby. That's certainly the case with 1001 Thai, whose straightforward name takes its cues from its location at the intersection of 10th and Northampton Streets and the types of cuisines it serves.
Located in a brick Victorian home, 1001 Thai may initially look familiar to those who might drive past it and expect to see signs for something else—Cherubina Ristorante, which closed in 2016 when owners Fran and Harry Cregar retired. Dean Curtis and his chef partner PheraphatPhromsom (he goes by Peter) took over the space in May 2016, making extensive renovations and upgrades in preparation for their November opening.
The menu at 1001 Thai is extensive, and the food has been earning raves; Curtis says there has been strong word of mouth to attract diners. “I wanted to make food with exemplary flavor,” says Phromsom. Thai food's flavor profile is deep and complex. “Thai food balances sour, spice, sweet and salty,” he says. Additionally, it's not all spicy, either; dishes are made to order, which enables the kitchen to customize one's preferred level of heat, from mild, medium, hot to Thai hot. (It also means veggies stay crisp-tender; nothing is cooked ahead of time and then reheated.) Almost everything is from scratch: “I don't make my own vinegar,” jokes Phromsom. The kitchen sources ingredients locally and seasonally when it can. He even does some small-scale gardening on the premises, growing lots of Thai basil and small lime trees, as the latter's leaves figure prominently in many Thai dishes. The tofu they use is non-GMO, and no MSG is used in the kitchen, says Phromsom.
