Shallot Asian Bistro--802 S. E. 5th Ave. (U.S.1 Federal Hwy., going South)
Delray Beach, Fl.
Tel. (561) 279-4199

Our friends made a reservation on a recent Saturday night at “Shallot.” This restaurant used to be the very popular “Pietre’s” run by Mike and his red headed wife more than five years ago. It is a fairly large establishment which my wife and I frequented regularly in the past. Since then, they sold the restaurant, Mike passed away and his wife probably returned to France. Going back 15-20 years ago, the couple owned another popular restaurant, The 20th Street Bistro in Boca Raton.

Imagine our surprise when we discovered only two other parties were dining: a party of four and a couple, and no one enjoying a cocktail at their long, well stocked bar. What’s going on here? I know I’m always looking for quiet restaurants, but this was a bit over the top.

When we studied the very large menu with a Japanese Corner, a Special Corner, a Thai Corner and separate sections for Curry, Noodles, Appetizers and Salads, we knew the answer. Every dish is a la carte. Pietre’s used to provide a complete dinner with soup, salad, entrée, coffee and dessert for under $20.

We decided to stay and let the chef demonstrate his prowess. My wife ordered the “Siam Connection,” a large plate with sautéed shrimp, chicken, pork and a medley of ginger, snow peas, mushrooms, baby corns, onions, scallions, bell pepper and authentic ginger sauce. Squid is also included, but she asked that be omitted. The chef accommodated her request. We each ordered a side order of brown rice to accompany our entrées, and salads with peanut sauce dressing.

Our friends tried two different dishes: the Sweet & Sour Chicken, served with onion, tomato, cucumber, red peppers, pineapple and scallions for her; and Cashew Nuts Chicken, served with sauteed onions, bell peppers and cashew nuts with brown sauce for him.

I ordered from the Japanese Corner. My entrée was a combination of Chicken Teriyaki and Shrimp Tempura served with two separate sauces for dipping: Teriyaki sauce for the chicken and a tangy ginger sauce for the Shrimp Tempura. Deep fried vegetables accompanied my dish as well as steamed broccoli and carrots.

We decided not to order from their wide choice of desserts such as Thai Donuts, Fried Bananas, Ice Cream Tempura, or Cheescake Tempura and settled for decaf coffee.

Each person in our party was pleased with their interesting dishes. The food was served hot and promptly by a pleasant waitress who could have been owner Roy’s wife.

When we left at 8:20 P.M. it was too quiet—even for me. There were no other patrons in the restaurant. If you enjoy unusual Thai and Japanese fare try Shallot. The quality of food is excellent and you’ll enjoy quiet conversation with your tablemates.

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