With all the new condo developments popping up in the Uptown area ne can expect a growth in new upscale dining establishments that cater to residental diners but not necessarily luxury or destination tastes. Along this stretch of Lake Street, you'll find the car repair shops, tire stores, and appliance dealers have been replaced with new residental urban living with a slightly European flair -- as much as that is possible in a country with no comprehension for history.
Tum Rup Thai might fit right into thist slice of the new market -- a place were young professional singles and couples can catch a bite during the week when too tired after work to cook on the way home but still want something more delicious than fast food or greasy heavy food. First Tum Rup has delicious appetiziers that can be shared or made into meals. The Basil Shrimp Rolls are a knock out. My friend ordered a plate that he promptly finished and then a second plate just because they were so delicious.
With the main dish menu you'll find a few things apply overall and that being that you pick the level of heat you want on your tongue and they make it to order. And second, many of their dishes apply more flame that heat. In concept this makes meat dishes fresher, brighter, more lively with more sparkle. Third, the curry and noodle dishes give you an array of chicken, pork, beef and seafood options and our group found the beef a little less than expected. You'll also find a healthy array of salads for lighter or veggie dining.
Owners/chef Somsap and Steve Hein also own Sawatdee on Hennepin and 27th and it was a little bit of a risk that they might split their business but the gamble seems to be paying off. Chef Somsap, originally from Thailand keeps her skills and imagination fresh with trips back to her home country. This new modern high ceiling space with dramatic mosaic tile work, bamboo accents and from the duct work in the ceiling hang parasol light fixtures, this has a distinctly different air than the Perkin's like interior and plastic booths of Sawatdee. Two eras in distinct contrast. Tum Rup has a large free parking lot in the back (critical for Uptown these days) and wine list and beer. Ample windows and outdoor dining in the summer. Entries will vary in price from $8 to $15.
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