There's a new taste of Thailand in town, and this one packs some serious heat.

Red Basil's new building has been home to other unique restaurant concepts in the past, from Rock Burger and Mr. Pit BBQ in the distant past and Bar-King Frog and Char-Koon Asian offerings more recently.  But with a complete redesign of the dining area to match the Asian theme, there's good reason to believe that Red Basil may have more staying power than its predecessors.

When Buddha Lounge closed down months ago, it left a void for good sushi in the neighborhood.  Red Basil certainly fits the bill, operating a full sushi bar and a liquor bar for both lunch, dinner and late nights. It may become a popular late-night hangout as well as a restaurant.

Stir Fry Vegetables in Garlic Chili Sauce — Photo courtesy of Red Basil

But the bread and butter of Red Basil is good Thai traditional favorites - Pad Thai, Kee Mao, Pad See-Eu, Thai Fried Rice and Udon dishes with your choice of vegetarian, beef, pork, chicken, shrimp or squid. Lunch specials for $6.95 and dinner specials for $8.95 offer those standards. Red Basil also creates some unique dinner specials that will set your taste buds ablaze.

Seafood is another staple at Red Basil, featuring Fried Snapper in Ginger Sauce, Garlic and Pepper Snapper, and Salmon Green Curry. The Basil Salmon is the house specialty, one of several spicy offerings.  But if you're not in the mood for a little heat, Red Basil can tone it down to fit your tastes. Wash it down with cold beer or hot saki for an enjoyable night of drinks and dinner.