Mee Thai: A CityWalk Escape Hatch with Authentic Flavors

I was in Orlando last week, mostly running errands and stretching my legs after a long drive. I needed to pick up a package near Universal CityWalk, and after fighting the tourist traffic, I decided to grab a quick bite before heading back. I'm always on the lookout for good Thai, and Mee Thai Restaurant, with its unassuming storefront, caught my eye.

Walking in, the interior is surprisingly spacious and airy, a welcome change from the bustling energy of the surrounding area. Green accents and Thai artwork create a calm atmosphere – a nice respite before maybe heading to ICON Park for a ride on The Orlando Eye. The menu is extensive, but I always like to start with appetizers to get a feel for a place.

I opted for the Cheese Rolls ($5.95), mostly out of curiosity. Crispy rolls filled with cream cheese, shrimp, and scallions? It sounded like an odd combination, but it worked surprisingly well. The sweet and sour sauce was a classic pairing, and the rolls were perfectly fried, not greasy at all. I also couldn't resist trying the Chicken Satay ($8.95). The chicken was tender and flavorful, and the peanut sauce was rich and nutty – exactly what I was hoping for.

For my main course, I wanted something comforting and flavorful. I chose the Tom Kha soup with chicken ($9.95). The creamy coconut broth was infused with kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and galangal, creating a complex and aromatic flavor profile. The chicken was tender, and the mushrooms added a nice earthy note. It was the perfect pick-me-up after navigating the crowds and traffic all day.

Mee Thai's menu also features Thai salads, soups, and noodle dishes. The Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum Thai) for $12.95 looks amazing, and I'll have to try that on my next visit. The portion sizes were generous, and the prices were reasonable, especially considering the location near a major tourist hub. You could easily spend a whole day exploring CityWalk, then relaxing at Mee Thai, and finishing the day off with a view from The Orlando Eye at ICON Park.

What struck me most about Mee Thai was its commitment to authentic Thai flavors. It's easy to get generic Thai food, especially in tourist areas, but Mee Thai offers something more. The dishes are clearly made with care and attention to detail. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the overall experience was pleasant and relaxing.

If you're ever in the Orlando area, especially if you're planning a visit to Universal CityWalk or ICON Park, I highly recommend stopping by Mee Thai Restaurant. It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a delicious and authentic Thai meal. It's definitely worth a visit for a taste of real Thai cooking.