Ruby Thai Kitchen

Very good for fast food at the mall food court!

New favorite at the MOA food court.

I have walked by Ruby Thai tons of time but have never stopped as I was leery of being duped of my cash by food that tastes little better than cardboard (Thai food, like Indian food, actually takes some cooking skills).

However, in desperation of something new to eat as the thought of Panda, again, was nauseating, I tried out Ruby Thai based on Yelp reviews.

VERDICT: Not disappointed at all and willing to go back!

I had a spicy chicken something that actually was spicy (like nose running slightly goodness) with complex sweet, sour, spiciness that is so indicative of Thai cooking. The fried rice tasted fine. The green curry had too much coconut milk in it and I could not taste the curry flavors.

For $7, it does not beat the great food you can find at small mom-and-pop restaurants along University Ave in St. Paul. But $7 at the MOA = satisfying and you won't need to waste more $$ on snacks as the meal will easily keep you satisfied for the day.

Is it authentic (aka stuff I grew up eating)? No, but it's as close as your going to get to the authenticity of any Asian cuisine at a mall.

The sample of mango chicken lured me in, but the rest of the amazing food is what has kept me coming back here time after time. This is easily the best fast food place in the whole mall!
All of the food tastes very fresh and authentic... I especially love the lemongrass chicken! My only complaint is that the level of spiciness is not always consistent, which can sometimes make for an unpleasant spicy surprise.
If you're looking for some good Thai food on a budget, this is your place!