REVIEWER #1

By ADRIENNE FRANK
Get Out

Wait: We arrived at 1:30 p.m. on a Tuesday and were seated immediately.

Service: There was only one server on this particular afternoon, but that was OK as only one other table in the small eatery was occupied. Our server was polite and efficient, though we didnt exactly feel a warm and friendly vibe radiating from her.

Recommendations: The sweet and sour chicken ($5) which also features zucchini slivers and tomato chunks in addition to the traditional peppers, carrots and pineapple is a hearty, healthy alternative to fried fare. Though its a tad heavy on the garlic, chicken with cashew nuts ($5) also makes for a good lunch, but beware its as spicy as an Arizona afternoon is hot. My only complaint with the food was that it was served lukewarm. Somehow Thai food (actually, food in general) always tastes best when served piping hot.

Scene: While Siam Orchid boasts very few special touches, those it has the ornate blue and white china, for instance are understated and classy. Silk orchids grace every table, and other colorful bouquets and fans adorn the cotton-candy pink walls. The dining room itself is cozy (translation: Its close to the kitchen), so the air was a tad warm.

Bathroom break: Nothing about Siam Orchid is elaborate especially the restrooms. They were, however, immaculate, and I for one will take cleanliness over character any day.

Tab for two: $22 with tip for three lunch entrees.

If work weren't buying: If youre new to Thai and on a budget, Siam Orchid is worth your hard-earned dollars especially if you opt for takeout. However, if its truly spicy fare youre craving, youll probably want to pass up this mom-and-pop operation. I probably wont give Siam Orchid another go, but thats only because I dont often crave Thai food authentic or otherwise.

REVIEWER #2

By CRYSTAL PETROCELLI
Get Out

Wait: We walked in at 6:45 p.m. on a Friday and stood in a state of confusion for a few moments trying to decide whether we were supposed to seat ourselves. Eventually we were shown to our table by our server, but it was an awkward experience.

Service: There were two women waiting four tables when we sat down. Despite that ratio, we were waterless and seemingly invisible for close to 10 minutes. Significant portions of both the Pahd Thai ($9) and pork satay appetizer ($6) were borderline cold. When the younger of the two Siam staffers attempted to clear our dishes, she mumbled something about being "bad at this." On a positive note, they chill their beer mugs!

Recommendations: The Gaeng Kra-Ree ($8), yellow curry with tender chicken chunks, bite-size potato pieces and coconut milk, was good and hot temperature-wise. Siam Orchid's spice levels mild, medium, hot and Thai hot are about one notch milder than most Thai places. I thought the hot option would give me the watery eyes I was looking for, but it didn't come close. So, if you enjoy a little cry with your curry, go for the gusto.

Scene: The small restaurant's light pink walls, dark purple cloth napkins and plethora of silk orchids were charming, but I couldn't shake the overwhelming feeling that I was eating in a cafeteria.

Bathroom break: The overall starkness and environmentally friendly but annoying hand blow- dryer reminded me of a clean gas station restroom. There was zilch in the way of extras no artwork, no frame around the vanity mirror, no vase with orchid, nothing.

Tab for two: $35 with tip for one appetizer, one cup of soup and two entrees.

If work weren't buying: Although word on the street is that this place is a hit with Gilbert residents (who were in full force by our meal's end), the food didn't make up for the poor service and absence of ambience.

Siam Orchid
50 E. Guadalupe Road, Gilbert

Major cross streets: Northeast corner of Guadalupe and Gilbert roads
Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, 5 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday
Reservations accepted: No
Prices: $4.95-$14.95
Most interesting item: Green papaya salad (sliced green papaya, tomato and dried shrimp, topped with minced peanuts, lime juice and chili), $7.95