Though Chinatown is only a ten minute walk from Downtown, depending on what event we’re running to, sometimes it is an additional distance we don’t have time to travel. That wasn’t the case on Thursday, when both the weather and our schedules were cooperative, with our Global Visions screening at Paramount falling at 8 (on a sidenote – I don’t like the trend of plays moving their start times to 7:30. I like the option of lingering at dinner).
As a result, I was finally able to return to Boualouang, many months after my first visit, and six months since the restaurant relocated down the block to a beautifully-renovated space. While the original location was functional and well-kept, it was bland and visually unattractive. This new venue better suits the wonderful food produced by the kitchen, and of course, provides the owners with a few tables to spare (they seemed to be forever turning people away at the previous restaurant). I especially love the lavish blue drapes that help separate the room from the bustling world outside.
Interior
I was very tempted to order a dish I hadn’t yet tried, but the side of me seeking a familiar, reassuring meal eventually won out. I couldn’t complain though – their green curry is (in my opinion), the best in the city. The chicken was tender, drenched in a sauce lovingly prepared with flavour that was worth the heat (which is saying something for a person who usually stays away from spice). We ended up ordering an additional bowl of coconut rice to soak up the curried goodness, and kept our server busy who insisted on keeping our water glasses filled to the brim.
Green Curry
The pad thai was also great, with a serving size that blows me away each time. Mack loved the grilled shrimp (and surprisingly) the tofu strips, and though isn’t a big fan of the sweet and spicy profile of the dish, was willing to overlook it for me.
Pad Thai
We were both stuffed, with leftovers remaining. For just over $40 (including tip), we were treated to a satisfying, relaxing meal with time to spare before our next engagement. If you’re in the area, be sure to keep Boualouang in mind.
Boualouang
10569 97 Street
(780) 423-4207
Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 12-9pm
Only Here for the Food 
HEARTILY agree. 🙂 Their green curry is spectacular. How was the wait times for you this time?
That looks amazing! I’m looking for a nice, relaxed place to hang out and eat comfort food from time to time and this looks like it could be it! Thanks 🙂
Their Pad Thai is incredible. I really want to go back there, although I read on Chowhound that since the move the service had gone downhill. Glad to hear you had a positive experience.
Lea – as you can probably tell from the photo – the wait to get in was non-existent, and because other parties filed in after we had already put in our order, the food arrived rather speedily.
Dr. CaSo – you’re welcome!
Isabelle – I had heard that comment as well. Maybe the kitchen has a tough time juggling a full room, but because it was empty when we ordered, we didn’t have that problem. So maybe the trick is to get there early…