See also: Denver's five best Thai restaurants
Garcia, who oversees the operations and human resources of Thailicious, didn't exactly warm up during our chat, although in his defense, prior to my arrival, he'd just met with the Orkin Pest Control man, which is probably enough to put anyone off a conversation.
In any case, the restaurant, which occupies the former Vina Pho & Grill space, is slated to open December 10 following a remodel from the Thailand-born chefs (Garcia wouldn't reveal their names), although he did divulge that they're a "romantic couple trained by popular Thai chefs" -- and that they have a background in fashion. "We're going to paint the inside, add some booths and some classy, eccentric touches that represent their fashion sense," says Garcia.
As for the menu, Garcia reveals that chiles, imported from Thailand, will set Thailicious apart from its competition. Those, and this: "At Thailicious, you'll get an extraordinary experience, which you've probably never had anywhere else." And, continues Garcia, "We're serving fresh ingredients and cooking from secret homemade recipes. It's Thai food that's delicious."
They're pursuing a liquor license, too, and if my first encounter with the place is any indication, my advice is to make sure and bring your driver's license. And a sense of humor.
Still, Garcia did send me a contrite e-mail following our brief meeting: "I apologize for my curt behavior. It was a lack of grace on my part," it said. Apology accepted.
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