Padaek - Falls Church

Just had an unforgettable dining experience at Padaek in Arlington Ridge, VA, and I couldn't wait to share!From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, setting the perfect stage for what was to come.Now, let's talk about the food. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the rich flavors of Lao and Regional Thai cuisine. The Siin Savanh, Gaeng Hang Lay, and Mieng were absolute standouts, bursting with authenticity and boldness.And dessert? Oh, don't even get me started! The Mango Sticky Rice and Khao Niew Met Nga were the perfect sweet endings to an incredible meal.But what truly sets Padaek apart is the attention to detail and the stories behind the food. Chef Seng's dedication to preserving tradition and sharing her family's recipes shines through in every bite.Overall, Padaek exceeded all expectations. If you're in Arlington Ridge and craving an unforgettable dining experience, look no further. This place is a gem!

Bomb bomb bomb food. So bomb. Drunken noodles were on point.

Was considering two dishes I didn't know. Told the server, she said she the Moak was her favorite. I ordered and we all loved it. Wonderful flavors.

The larb is a toss of juicy chicken, toasted rice powder, the fermented fish sauce that gives Padaek its name and chef Seng Luangrath’s favorite herb, lemongrass. Galangal — reminiscent of fresh ginger when young and more peppery as it ages — lends its spark to the salad as well. This is food that puts your taste buds at full attention. “Alive!” I texted a note to myself the first time I ate it. Pretty much anyone can sample the pleasure, since the salad, like a swath of dishes here, is also offered gluten-free and/or vegan.

The food is between great and well-balanced flavors to over-saturation, depending if the place is busy or not. So, be aware of the crowds. They tend to stress out the chef/cooking staff into making mistakes. The flavors of Lao food is delicate and must be properly prepared to taste decent.The service is great when not crowded, but it turns into a crawl when a mob hits the restaurant.The restaurant is properly decorated, but the lack of space when a huge rush hits makes the wait and seating space a mighty tight challenge.