Brown Sugar Cafe has been a BU student’s staple for years, ending many an spring roll and pad Thai craving, annually introducing a new crowd to Thai goodness. Add to that crowd a mix of young Brighton professionals, parents visiting for the weekend, and Allston kids in search of something that gives you enough for two meals - you’ve just summed up a typical evening in the dining room. The Fenway location boasts a similar excellence, making either Brown Sugar worth a visit from across town.
But, a while back, the folks behind BS realized there was no need. And then there were three. The Similans, an exceptionally cute sister restaurant right next to the Cambridgeside Galleria, features an almost identical (massive) menu, full of fresh veggies, fish, and a whole mess of noodles. It isn’t particularly “authentic” Thai food, but it’s nevertheless delicious. While some don’t dig the Brown Sugar/Similans way, we particularly like that their food is on the sweet side. The name does say “sugar,” no?
Lunch is always prompt and makes a very filling midday choice. Most nights, you won’t need to call ahead, and the staff at all three restaurants is impeccably nice. And as for people watching? No need. Stare at those beautiful saltwater fish tanks between bites instead.
Brown Sugar Cafe [Official Site]
The Similans [Official Site]
[Photo: stu_spivak/Flickr]
