Driving down Alexandria Pike in Highland Heights, KY one would never find Mae Ploy, an unassuming freestanding restaurant with the sign blazing “Chinatown”. That was left over from a previous owner, but what you’ll find inside has no comparison. Although it’s not high on atmosphere, the surroundings are pleasant and casual with a few quirks. The first oddity you’ll likely notice is the “office” at the entrance. Yes, the chef is set up in the see through space for everyone to wonder what he’s up to. From there, you’ll find the sushi bar with comfortable stools and a dining room with formica® booths.
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| The Casual Dining Area and Sushi Bar |
Hopefully, you’ve not discarded this hot spot by now. The food is what you’re there for and it was special! The menu was lengthy so we started out with a Thai Iced Tea and Coffee. Those are our favorite accompaniments to a Thai meal and these did not disappoint. My coffee was loaded with sweet cream and Eric found the tea to be
creamier than other versions. We decided not to have an appetizer or soup, as we wanted to save room for their amazing homemade ice creams, which we had at a party earlier this year. We looked through the offerings for something different from our regular favorites. Eric immediately went to the Seafood Basil. I, on the other hand, was torn between the Mango Curry and the Pine Nut Chicken. I decided on the latter. Both were served with steamed rice although there is the option of fried rice for a nominal charge.
creamier than other versions. We decided not to have an appetizer or soup, as we wanted to save room for their amazing homemade ice creams, which we had at a party earlier this year. We looked through the offerings for something different from our regular favorites. Eric immediately went to the Seafood Basil. I, on the other hand, was torn between the Mango Curry and the Pine Nut Chicken. I decided on the latter. Both were served with steamed rice although there is the option of fried rice for a nominal charge.
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| Seafood Basil |
The seafood basil was loaded with stir-fried shrimp, crabmeat, squid, scallops, and mussels in their shell. The base was a rich dark basil sauce with mushrooms, onions, scallions, red and green peppers. It was a complexly flavored, almost light dish that he’d order again.
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| Pine Nut Chicken |
The pine nut chicken was not just a different version of cashew chicken. The sauce was lightly flavored with ginger and added to a stir-fry of chicken, broccoli, green beans, mushrooms, carrots, and baby corn creating an enjoyable combination that was on the sweet side.
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| Mango and Pineapple Ice Cream |
It was time for dessert and there were several to choose from, but we were there for the ice cream. All made in house, the flavors of the evening were mango, pineapple, green tea, and lynchee. Our server’s favorites were mango and pineapple so our decision was made. Although both were outrageously good, we preferred the pineapple for its fresh chunks and potent flavor.
Mae Ploy is a great choice when at NKU or attending a game (as we were) or performance at the Bank of Kentucky Center. We can’t wait to go back and I already know that I’ll be ordering the Mango Curry.
I thought I’d stay out and hunt while the guys were at the game, but Neil thought it would be too late so I had to come inside. More nap time for me!
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