By Copper Williams
You’d be hard pressed to find an empty seat any night of the week down at Tracy Thai. The dinner rush knows its dining destinations for traditional dishes, and this unique Thailand experience is heralding all the flavors from its Asian southeastern roots. With its earthy wood-paneled walls, plethora of plants and unique décor, each hungry guest has not only the opportunity to enjoy a scrumptious meal, but to take a journey far away from our Californian shores.
Tracy Thai is aptly named for its location, just a few blocks from downtown Tracy. Its broad range of rich menu options continues to bring in hungry diners of every discerning palette, promising tasty entrees such as the Trout Rad Prig, a crispy trout topped with sweet chili sauce and served with steamed vegetables. Another favorite, for those with a sweet tooth, is the fried banana with coconut ice cream. Pair it with the restaurant’s outdoor seating and you’ve got yourself a dinner date in the making.
This spectrum of delectable dining opportunities is thanks to Gesaranee, the owner of Tracy Thai. Gesaranee’s aim is a simple, but sweet endeavor to bring her family’s traditions to the tables of San Joaquin. “We want our customers to feel like this is their home. So we focus on [bringing a] friendly and comfortable environment.” Gesaranee has succeeded, seeing return customers clamoring through her doors daily. “It has been 10 years of hard work we put in, and we are happy to see them every day. We love when customers tell us that this is their kitchen and thank us for being here.”
Even customers new to the Thai experience can’t help, but catch that fragrant aroma of dishes like the Kra Pow when passing by. It’s a special treat because, as Gesaranee explains, “You can pick your choice of meat or even [go] vegetarian style. Your choice of meat [is] sautéed with bell pepper, yellow onion, [and] basil in a chili-garlic sauce.” The restaurant’s quick service, matched with its superior staff, keep diners delighted. “We believe in quality of the food. If the food is not up to par, we will not bring it out for the customers.”
Don’t make the mistake that dinner is Tracy Thai’s only specialty! Their hours are also catered to the noontime rush. When people pop in to take a look over the lunch specials, they’re eying long-time favorites such as the Mango Paradise. This flavor-fest is filled with fresh mango, steamed vegetables, and basil, topped with a red curry sauce. The BBQ Chicken Special is another recipe that brings in returning customers. Grilled chicken breast is served with fried rice and a salad for a quick bite when you’ve little time to spare.
If you’re dining with friends might we suggest the Fresh Roll? It’s a combination of lettuce, carrots, cilantro, chicken, and prawns wrapped in clear rice paper. It only takes one dip into the sweet and sour sauce or the peanut sauce to truly ensnare you in the Thailand-based experience. And before you go, say hello to Gesaranee if she’s around. Because she knows exactly what makes her restaurant sparkle like the gem it is. “We want to thank you, our customers. For all the support and thank you for coming back and being a part of our family.”
Find Your New Favorites At:
Tracy Thai
1035 Central Ave., Tracy
(209) 833-9703