"Located at 8396 Musick Memorial Drive, Mai Lee is a delightful blend of Vietnamese and Chinese culinary offerings.
**Decor: Understated Simplicity**
Upon entering Mai Lee, you might notice that the decor is quite basic, featuring standard tables, wallpaper, and flooring. The ambiance is unpretentious and straightforward, putting the focus squarely on the food.
**Service: Unassuming Efficiency**
The service at Mai Lee is simple and efficient. You're promptly greeted, your order is taken, and then it’s pretty much up to you to enjoy your meal. While the personalized touch might be lacking, the efficiency ensures that the experience centers around the food.
**Food: A Flavorful Delight**
Mai Lee came highly recommended, especially for its pho and other Vietnamese dishes, and I found it lived up to the hype. In a city where authentic East Asian flavors can be hard to find, Mai Lee stands out. I chose the Pad Thai as my test dish, and it exceeded my expectations. The Thai-style rice noodles, stir-fried with a combination of beef, chicken, shrimp, and a selection of vegetables, were topped with peanuts and served with fish sauce, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. My girlfriend ordered the #60: Bun Xao Rau Cai, consisting of vermicelli noodles adorned with a stir-fried mix of vegetables and crushed peanuts, all beautifully intertwined with a sate sauce. Both dishes were impressive in taste and authenticity.
**Night's Highlight: Encountering a Saint Louis Legend**
To top off our evening, we were thrilled to share our meal in the company of the wonderful Nikki Glaser, a true gem of Saint Louis. We couldn't help but share a playful moment reminiscent of "Lady and the Tramp" while enjoying our fantastic meal with a dose of comedy royalty.
In summary, while Mai Lee may not dazzle you with opulent decor or extravagant service, it certainly offers a culinary experience where flavor takes center stage. For anyone looking for an authentic East Asian dining experience in St. Louis, this hidden gem is worth a visit. With delectable dishes that strike all the right chords, it’s an adventure that will leave your taste buds celebrating."
