Finding a decent
Thai restaurant in the neighborhoods surrounding Mai, the new
Southeast Asian eatery that borders Fort Greene and Park Slope,
is as simple as scoring a bowl of French onion soup in Park Slope.
Satisfying a craving for Indonesian cuisine or the complex flavors
of Malaysia is another story. That is, until Mai opened on Atlantic
Avenue in September.
Step beneath Mai’s bright yellow awning, you’ll find chef Daniel
Wu (pictured), who co-owned Jefferson and the Cafe Asean in Manhattan,
spinning out a spirited menu that traverses Vietnam, Thailand,
Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia.
Sitting in the modern, brick walled space atop wooden banquettes
strewn with brightly colored pillows, diners can begin a meal
by dipping pan-seared scallop dumplings into soy, ginger and
lime sauce. Follow the appetizer with an entree of whole grilled
sea bass wrapped in a banana leaf and served with a spicy chili
and fish sauce. If poultry is their pleasure, Wu sautes half
a duck with shiitake mushrooms and splashes it with a light,
ginger-spiked wine sauce.
In the summer, a garden with a fountain makes an ideal spot to
sip sake and enjoy the restaurant’s refreshing coconut and lime
custard.
Mai (497 Atlantic Ave. between Third Avenue and Nevins Street
in Boerum Hill) accepts cash only. Entrees: $9-$15.50. The restaurant
serves lunch and dinner every day. For reservations, call (718)
797-3880.
– Tina Barry
The Brooklyn Papers / Jori Klein
