Sunday, June 1, 2008

Of Sticky Rice and Summer Evenings

Admittedly there are times as a working mom that I simply am not in the mood to cook. And, when the weekend comes - and it is beautiful outside - and the kids are playing and we are walking around... sometimes the last thing I want to do is think about what to make for dinner. (Also, we sometimes lose track of time and gets late).

These are the times when living in Chicago is truly wonderful. There are terrific restaurants within walking distance of our house (or a short drive) and because we have always taken our kids out to eat, they know how to behave (for the most part).

Last night was one such night, and we found a great restaurant (yes, it has been there forever - and we only last night went) - called "Sticky Rice". It is just past Irving Park on Western (for those of you that live in Chicago) and not only is it some of the best Thai food I have ever had, the staff was wonderful and really knew how to work with parents with kids. They brought out smaller plates for the kids, along with cups with lids and straws. And, for our oldest, a pair of chopsticks with a rubberband already securely tied around the top.

The kids loved the sticky rice (very flavorful and served in a soft straw steaming basket) and the egg noodles. The staff steamed some fresh veggies for all - and the kids loved the baby corn and carrots that were cut in the shape of small flowers. The hubby and I shared wonderfully smoky and crisp Pad Thai, and we all enjoyed a really flavorful chicken satay - which can often be overcooked, but was just timed perfectly.

All in all - a terrific meal!

A was getting antsy after she ate, so I took her for the short walk home, where we admired the blooming spring flowers and stopped to look at every pebble and bird on the way home (including my daughter sitting on the sidewalk and pointing to it - insisting that "mommy SIT DOWN!")

We all met up on the front porch of our house and enjoyed the beautiful breeze an early shower/bath for the kids and everyone falling asleep quickly on the couch -

A great day all in all!

3 comments:

Veronica said...

Oohh...good to know! We normally frequent Roong Petch on Montrose, but a friend did recommend Sticky Rice. But as you know, as a mom with a squirmy one I'm usually fearful to try to a new place. So hearing that they welcomed your squirmy ones is fabUlous. Let us know when it's time for a dinner date.

Marty said...

Hahahahaha

I know what you call a short walk home.

Dani L said...

No really.

A short walk!