DTLA: Essan Thai

 

Oh boy, I’m just following Midtown Lunch around to different Thai spots. After a so-so experience at LAX-C, I found my way to another ML rec, Essan. Once I got there, I realized I had been there before in an earlier incarnation as a typical sandwich shop. I’m not sure how long it’s been gone (perhaps it couldn’t compete with nearby Mendocino Farms) but I’m glad Essan is there to take its place.

After looking at the weekly specials, I decided to try something from their regular menu first. I got the counter and blurted out I wanted the vermicelli salad. I did? I was actually looking at a half sandwich and half soup or side salad special. But then I heard my mouth saying I also wanted beef for my salad (it’s supposed to be steak but my eyes and later tongue would tell me it’s tender, TENDER brisket).

Ooh, how pretty! This lemongrass lemonade was refreshing after hiking the 20 minutes to get there from my office (downtown is a small place but somethings aren’t really that snappy to get to).

Well, my mouth knew what it wanted. This salad was light and perfect. Maybe I should let it order more often instead of my eyes which tend to be bigger than my stomach and almost always over-orders.

I will have to check out the lemongrass grill next time with steak (ooh, I hope it’s that brisket) or the tom yum soup. The yellow chicken curry also sounds good or maybe actually get that sandwich combo. I would like to try the Thai banh mi next time. Snacks include spring rolls.

 

Essan- A Taste of Thai

601 W 5th St., Los Angeles, CA 90071 – (213) 488-9995