There’s a new eatery across the street from Golfland Sunsplash that’s likely to make a few waves of its own. Bangkok Café boasts an impressive lineup of soups, salads, noodle dishes, rice plates, grilled options and classic curries—all served up in friendly and casual environs. 

The long, tall table running down the middle looks ideal for a quick lunchtime trip, but my plus-one and I came for dinner and settled at one of the tables along the restaurant’s edge underneath a bank of windows. 

I didn’t even look at the menu before ordering a Thai iced tea (they’re undoubtedly my weakness), which came out quickly—and in a glass bigger than our water cups. There were a few appetizers that caught our eye, but we landed on the Poh Pia Pak Tod, delightfully crispy spring rolls stuffed with succulent chicken, carrots, green onions, cilantro, onions, glass noodles and taro. 

Pad Thai is always a fantastic go-to for folks new to the exotic cuisine—with its chewy rice noodles sautéed with juicy chicken, prawns, tofu, egg, crunchy bean sprouts, garlic and ground peanuts—and I couldn’t resist trying Bangkok’s version. Be sure to squeeze the lime over the entire plate—the zing adds another delicious level of complexity. 

Black Sticky Rice with 

Mango Ice cream

It seems my husband is always in the mood for red curry (Gang Ped), so it was no surprise when he opted for the familiar dish. Spice options range from mild to “Thai hot,” and you choose the level that suits your taste. Served with jasmine rice and your pick of protein, alongside tender bamboo shoots, bell peppers and peppery basil, it arrived cooked to perfection in the requisite spicy-sweet coconut milk gravy.

But you’ll find the best reason to swing by Bangkok Café on the dessert menu—Black Sticky Rice with mango ice cream. The velvety smooth ice cream melted into the crevices of the earthy and oh-so toothsome rice below—resulting in a delicately sweet treat. It may be difficult to describe, but trust me: It’s worth the trip.

Bangkok Café, 1906 Taylor Road, Suite 100, Roseville, 916-788-0888.