Probably one of the most anticipated grand openings here in Sioux City happened just last month. Pete’s Thai on 5th has been the talk of the town for a month now, which is why I
Probably one of the most anticipated grand openings here in Sioux City happened just last month. Pete’s Thai on 5th has been the talk of the town for a month now, which is why I made this my first stop on our Asian food month-long tour.
Still a diamond in the rough
As the name implies, owner Pete Utthachoo opened his authentic Thai restaurant downtown, and has witnessed immense success. Previously, Pete was the owner of Diamond Thai, another Thai restaurant in town, and after leaving, he branched off and started his own establishment.
One afternoon, my husband and I made our way downtown to do what I call “research”. Lucky for him, he gets to tag along on these expeditions, and sample some amazing flavors along the way. Walking through the doors, we were immediately greeted by two life-size Thai statues, and the sound of trickling water from the decorative fountain centerpiece.
First impressions
Walking around, I was amazed at the artistic effort put into this quaint diner. Bright and cheerful oranges, reds and greens painted the walls, as well as ornamental lanterns hanging from the ceiling. I felt like I walked into a swanky café along the alley ways of Thailand itself.
Greeted and served by a sweet old lady, we graciously sat down, ordered hot tea and spring rolls to start. For our entrées, my husband ordered the chicken yellow curry, and I got the pork spicy wok noodles. Both were so good! And after seeing the wide array of entrées on their menu, I will definitely be back.
Spice up your life
In addition, each meal is served with spicy sauces you can add to your dish, and one of them was a ground up pepper and seed mixture that was soul-burning hot, but satisfying at the same time. However, after scooping spoonfuls of this Thai chili onto my noodles, I have found that no hot sauce since can quench my need for heat quite like that chili sauce did. I need to find out if I can buy that stuff by the pint, or start searching around Asian grocery stores, on the hunt for some spicy punishment.
Overall, I absolutely love that this has brought life back to our downtown. Sioux City definitely needs more restaurant options in the downtown business district, and now that I know where they are, I plan to make several more visits, and bring some friends along to experience Thai culture, and their amazing culinary skills.
Plan your visit
Finally, be mindful to their business hours. They do close for two hours most days, and I’ll have the hours of operation listed below. Check out their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/petesthaion5th.siouxcity/) for upcoming events, and to view recent postings of dishes and entrées you may be interested in the next time you make your visit.
Hours of Operation:
Mon – Fri: 10am to 3pm; 5pm to 9pm
Saturday: 11am to 9pm
Sunday: Closed
712-560-1301
507 5th St
Sioux City, Iowa 51101