Drunken Poet Café: Authentic Thai Cuisine in Sarasota

August 29, 2016 | Sande Caplin | Dining

I had the opportunity to dine at the new and improved Drunken Poet Café on Main Street. I had not been to the restaurant since its renovation a few months ago, and was much impressed with its new décor and overall inviting atmosphere. With a little help from a Caragiulo brother, the owner, Aporni Punyhotra, affectionately known as “Oy”, has completely transformed the space. There are beautiful inspirations throughout the restaurant that she has brought back with her from her native Thailand. After speaking with Oy for only a few minutes, I immediately felt welcomed into a world far away from home.

During my visit, I was able to try the new Thai street food inspired lunch menu. There are 8 options, all for only $9 each. Oy explained to me that Thai street food has many of the same components. Garlic, cilantro, roast pork, coconut rice and fried eggs are all main staples. Each of the menu items highlights these flavors and brings together food that is new and interesting even to the most avid Thai food fan. All of the meals were delicious, but my lunchtime choice would be the Kao Kha Moo which features a fall-off-the-bone roasted pork leg and a garlic and ginger dipping that is equal parts of sweet and heat, a perfect accompaniment for the meat. Also be sure to end your meal with a Thai Iced Tea, a beautiful blend of black tea, honey and sweet cream. It’s a drink that definitely goes down like a dessert.

The food is great and the atmosphere is warm, but the stories in the décor surrounding your table might be the true highlight. When speaking to Oy about the writings on the wall, she explains that they are poems from King Rama II. This former King of Thailand’s reign was considered the Golden Age of Literature due to his love and knowledge of artists and poets. He often spoke about his love of the food and the women of his country, and wrote poetry connecting his two favorite passions. These writings epitomize the restaurant’s blend of food and romance, a pairing that truly comes together naturally in this enchanting space. Celebrating 10 successful years, Drunken Poet Café is now better than ever.

For more information on lunch specials, please visit the website at www.drunkenpoetcafe.com

Drunken Poet Café is located at 1572 Main Street Sarasota FL 34236, on the corner of Main and Orange and is open Mon. – Thur. 11a.m. – 10.p.m. Fri. – Sat. 11a.m. – Midnight Sun. 11a.m. -10p.m.