Pleasing Palates, A Compromise of Two Cuisines

Newtown Square–In any relationship–be it romantic, familial or business–there will come a time when both parties will disagree so strongly that it will escalate into a heated argument which will not end in compromise but with a clear victor.

The frequency of these fights depends on a myriad of factors but almost always happens in the evening. I'm talking about deciding where to eat. The genius of Heng's Thai-Sushi is that it can please more than one person at a time.

I went into Heng's Thai-Sushi a bit dubious about the ambitious cuisine combination and feeling under the weather. The extensive menu showcases almost equally Thai and sushi offerings.

As expected, the appetizer menu has typical Thai items including crisp egg rolls, chicken satay and cucumber salad ($4-10). But the clear favorite of the table was the shrimp in shell ($10). Large plump shrimp are individually rolled in a spring roll wrapper, deep fried, and served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.

The hot and sour shrimp tom yum soup ($7) was not only delicious but just what the doctor ordered. My cold-like symptoms soon disappeared. The weather was too cold to enjoy any of the salads ($7-17). Although, the calamari salad ($14) sounded refreshing and would be perfect in the summer.

The specialties of the house were both unexpected and generously portioned. The drunken noodles ($15) had meaty pieces of white meat chicken, a gorgeous array of vegetables and just the right amount of spice (you have the option of choosing 1-4 stars to indicate how spicy you want your food; we chose 3 stars).

It arrived on a large platter and could easily serve two people. For those seeking something a bit more adventurous, the kanom bueng is excellent. Imagine a giant plate-sized crepe brimming with shrimp, tofu, and vegetables then add a classic Thai touch, shredded sweet coconut and you have the kanom bueng. For those who do not favor the sweet and savory together, this entrée is not for you. I loved the contrast in flavors, textures and pleasing presentation.

The sushi menu offers staples like edamame, miso soup and salads dressed with ginger dressing. The entrees and omakase (Chef Special) feature various combinations of sushi, sashimi, standard rolls (tuna, California and salmon) and special rolls.

The fish was fresh, clean tasting and the restaurant passed my ginger test. Walk into any sushi bar and take a peek at the pickled ginger. Naturally pickled ginger is light yellow or pale pink not fluorescent pink, which usually indicates it has been dyed. Dyed ginger should tell you it's lower quality.

The restaurant is casual–no dress code–with attentive service. I particularly enjoyed the many oil paintings of cherry blossom trees and the towering vase of fresh bird of paradise flowers at the end of the sushi bar. Opt for hot tea–jasmine or green–or Thai iced coffee or tea ($3) for your beverage pairing with the meal. 

Heng's Thai-Sushi in Newtown Square does not appear to have a liquor license, otherwise I would have suggested sake or Japanese beer to go with the sushi. Its sister restaurant in Springfield is also owned by the talented husband and wife duo.

Heng's Thai-Sushi

212 South Newtown Street Road, Newtown Square, PA, 19073

Phone: 610-619-0441
Reservations: Not necessary on weeknights but recommended for weekends
Parking: Plenty for a small strip mall
Kid's menu: Not Available
Hours: Lunch–Mon - Thu, 11:30am - 3:30pm, Fri, 11:30 am - 3pm, Sat, Sun, closed; Dinner–Mon - Thu, 4:30pm - 9:30pm, Fri, 4:30pm - 10pm, Sat, 4pm - 10pm, Sun, closed
Cash, Mastercard, Visa and Discover cards accepted