Champa Thai

We stopped by Champa Thai, which is located in Pearl Kai Shopping Center (across from Pearlridge), after spending the morning at the Oahu Urban Garden.

Ambiance:
The interior of Champa Thai is very nicely decorated. It would be the perfect place to take someone on a first date. Though we came on a weekday, we were a little surprised to see the restaurant so packed. It seems to be the favorite of many military personnel.

Service:
Good service. Our orders were taken quickly, our waters refilled frequently, and our food prepared in a timely manner. We were delivered the wrong dish, but the waitress caught herself just before setting the food on the table. (Shucks, we were hoping for a free dish). Other than that, no complaints.

Food:

• Mee Krob: We ordered this as our appetizer. Described as "crispy noodles with bean sprouts tossed in a sweet sauce and topped with green onions," we found that was exactly what it was. The texture of the noodles was unique: light, almost like shrimp chips in noodle form. The sweet sauce tasted pretty much like sweet sour sauce. The portion was VERY generous and we were getting a little full even before the entree came.
• Green Curried Vegetables: A pretty standard curry with an assortment of vegetables.
  
• Sweet and Sour Tofu: We were a little amused because the vegetables in our two entrees were nearly exactly alike. Nevertheless, the flavors were completely different.
  
• Brown rice: every bit as delicious as white rice. White rice is softer, but this brown rice had a heartier, more subtly nutty flavor. Not at all overpowering with the dishes we ordered.

Value:
Prices are pretty standard. We paid a little over $25 with tip. The portions were large enough that we were stuffed at the end.

Overall:
This place is popular for a reason. There aren't many Thai restaurants in the Aiea/Pearl City area, and the food here is quite tasty. Can't wait to eat here again!