Thai Passion, Austin

Fresh Thai orchids grace the tables at Thai Passion, a detail that helps lend the restaurant its tranquil atmosphere. Owner Gene Kobboon is adamant that diners feel at ease in his establishment, which he's dressed in hand-crafted carvings of his own design. You see, Gene is an artist at heart, and his artistic touches can be found all over Thai Passion, most especially in the food.

After spurning a career in the commercial arts to follow his culinary passions, Gene opened Thai Passion in 1996. Thai favorites include chicken satay on bamboo skewers, panang curry, and pad thai. For those looking for a bit of a kick, try the Dancing Seafood—stir-fried scallops, shrimp, squid, New Zealand mussels, mushrooms, tomatoes, and onions in thai hot and sour sauce.