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Seattle transplant tickles, teases the palate, offers open-air dining
Story and photos by Ashley Villarreal

Up above the fast-paced collegiate bustle that often is University Boulevard lies a partially hidden gem–its flavor an authentic sample of what Thailand can bring to cuisine.

Vila Jarrell moved from Seattle in 2006 to open Vila Thai, located on the second floor at the southwest corner of Park Avenue and University Boulevard, a small restaurant with a large vision that brings more than just food to the community.

Vila Thai is located on Main Gate Square at 972 E. University Boulevard, on the upper deck above The Fat Greek and American Apparel. It is open on weekdays from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and from 5p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. (Ashley Villarreal/UA Journalism)

“I wanted to provide a place for students to relax on the upper deck away from the street with the exhaust and traffic,” Jarrell said. 

Throughout the month, the restaurant, situated between a Chinese eatery and a tattoo parlor, displays artwork done by students and amateur artists, holds open mic sessions, and hosts a band led by students from the University of Arizona music department.

On any Thursday nights, customers can be found dining on an open-air patio enclosed with low-strung lighting that gives it a romanticized feel of tranquility despite the steady flow of customers.

Ian Manger, a UA student and a repeat-customer, sat at a table where customers are serenaded by a jazz quintet. Manger describes himself as a “big curry fan” and said Thai food is often hard to come by but enjoys Vila Thai for the atmosphere as well as the food.

“Its fun and inviting, not bland like some places,” he said. “There is a lot of color in the restaurant.”

In addition to having the potential to be a social hub for students and community members, Jarrell wanted to bring a different taste to the area that was healthy, as well as delicious and often as inexpensive as some fast food.

“Part of the mission is familiarizing students with picking great gourmet food,” Jarrell said.
Adrianne DeNike, a server and artist who recently moved from New York, said she loved the job not only for the food but the surroundings.

“The people are nice—they’re like family,” she said, “and the customers love the food so that’s always nice.”

Villa Thai also offers $3 Late Night Eats Thursdays through Saturdays from 9-11 p.m. (Ashley Villarreal/UA Journalism)

Thai food has traditionally seen various influences from surrounding countries like India, where the blending of colorful curries and spices brings a certain fusion inherent to its cuisine.

Walter Lau, a server for over a year at Vila Thai, said the most popular dish is the Panang Chicken (made with coconut, peanut, basil and curry paste) and like all dishes, customers can order it as hot they want—anywhere from one to five on the “spice-o-meter.”

Lime, lemongrass, mint, and galangal and ginger—both of which have been known to have medicinal value—are ever-present ingredients found in the preparation of many dishes, soups and stir-frys.

Vila Thai’s menu offers meat dishes as well as seafood selections, and prides itself on having healthier alternatives like tofu and the choice of ordering brown instead of white rice. 

“Thai food can be an acquired taste, but once you try it you’re hooked,” Jarrell said. “That’s pretty much what Thai food does for you.”