Pinto Thai Cuisine: Tierrasanta

 

10425 Tierrasanta Blvd. Suite #105
San Diego, CA 92124
Mon-Fri Lunch: 11:00 am- 3 pm
Mon-Thu Dinner: 4:30 pm- 9:30 pm
Friday Dinner: 4:30- 10pm
Sat: 11:00 am-10 pm
Sun: 11 am-9:30 pm
pinto@pintosd.com
Extensive Menu
Take Out
Extremely courteous  and friendly staff
Vegetarian Available
Spice Ranges from 1-10
Outside Patio Setting
Dog-Friendly Patio
Date Worthy

When I traveled to Koh Chang Thailand last year, I wanted to really experience the culture. In one memory in particular; I had an intimate dinner with friends on the rooftop of a stilted house, while sitting atop a jagged cliff, we were overlooking the most breathtaking view our eyes could lie on. The reflection of the amethyst and magenta sky caught light in the electric turquoise and deep-blue abyss, while the colossal, mandarin sun was setting. Just envision every single color on a palette; simply put, it was absolutely extraordinary.

It was when I indulged in my first bite at this restaurant, the memory immediately brought me back to that euphoric moment. It was a taste of nostalgia. The atmosphere of Pinto Thai in Tierrasanta may not be as picturesque as the image painted above, however the food, even at this unassuming and nondescript neighborhood eatery, these Thai delicacies were even better than from what I remembered.

To start, I ordered an appetizer of Crispy Calamari, which was perfectly deep-fried and served alongside an authentic sweet & sour sauce. Next, I ordered Pad Kee-Mao (Spicy Noodles). Admittedly, I had no idea what I was in for. I swear to you,my 10,000 taste-buds just heightened, with an extreme kick. The Pad Kee-Mao was a collection of juicy beef, pan-fried noodles with egg, basil, carrots, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, with heavy doses of garlic and chili spices; I don’t think I’ve ever had that much flavor in my mouth, but it was a definite treat . Despite the fact I only got a 5 (out of the possible 10 spiciness range) I drank approximately 5-7 glasses of ice water to act as makeshift fire retardant. I’m certain the staff recognized my determined and enthusiastic approach to the dish. Embarrassingly enough, tears were streaming down my face, my hands were shaking, and my body was trembling from excitement. Finally, a taste of REAL FOOD of extracted perfection.

A funny story about the wait-staff: No joke, seconds after I would either finish an appetizer, meal or drink, they would come rushing out to see how I was doing. When I was waving my hand in motion over my mouth, a heard a voice coming up behind me, “Is that too spicy for you?!” It was like the butler from Mr Deeds- “Sneaky Sneaky.” Beyond the obvious hilarity involved; I quite honestly felt like royalty, they were so quick. I’m sooo special.

Besides the excellent service, I have to mention that Thai people are the friendliest and most respectful people I’ve ever encountered. Which was reflected in the totally on-point and courteous service I received at Pinto Thai. I was so intrigued by everything, I ate at Pinto Thai twice in one week. That’s a big deal for a broke college student.

Pinto Thai has a Soho-ish design and a nonchalant, yet trendy ambiance about it.  It’s a very quaint, charming and cultured place. My favorite aspect of thisThai enterprise? An outside patio, set against an exposed brick wall, is perfect for people-watching; which happens to be one of my favorite pastimes. Inside Pinto Thai, there are beautifully beaded & jeweled elephant tapestries hanging from the walls, wood-carved Buddhas & red tea-lit decor, recreating an aesthetic like that of a Thai sanctuary. This restaurant is without question classified as a “hole-in-the-wall,” but aren’t those always the most delicious places?

MIX TIPS***
Take a quick peek over the menu before you come in, because there are way too many unique & delicious dishes to choose from. Meaning, you will have less time to decipher what to eat, or even to carry-out.
*Pinto Thai Full Menu
*Try out the dish I’m in love with, Pad Kee-Mao (Spicy Noodles)
*Park on the neighborhood streets; only a block or two from the restaurant.
*Perfect date spot — sit outside, on the patio, for a romantic, summery ambiance.

By: Emma Keating