Every once in awhile you come across a restaurant that requires you to wait days or even weeks at a time before you can get a reservation. Often it tends not to live up to the hype, but that certainly wasn’t a problem at Bida Manda.
This upscale Asian fusion restaurant serving a variety of both Thai and Laotian dishes, with the occasional American twist, was a true delight and definitely a place I’ll be returning in the future. Having been to both Thailand and Laos in my travels I was slightly put off by the fact the food didn’t really taste like anything I found locally, but it was still pretty scrumptious nonetheless.
The lettuce wraps were spectacular, to start. We tried the vegetarian option since we were having meat for the entrée and the peanut sauce added just the right touch to balance out the seasoning. For my main course I had the sea bass, which was exceptionally tender. It came seated in a plate of banana leaf and curry mild enough that it didn’t overwhelm the dish.
The atmosphere is more on the fancy side, so feel free to dress up. The service was well above average and it’s a wonderful place to take a date. A meal here costs a little more than I’m used to, but it seemed like a pretty good deal for what we got.
Bida Manda
222 S Blount St.
Raleigh, N.C. 27601
919 829 9999
Read This Next
Under $100: Raleigh, N.C.
Under $100 / North America
May 9, 2016#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Nov 21, 2024Art Basel Happenings at Miami’s The Ritz-Carlton Hotels
Art Basel Miami Beach takes place Dec. 6–8. This iconic international art fair features works from worldwide established and emerging artists. To celebrate the event, The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami, and The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach, host special programming with a focus on female artists.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Travel Goods
Nov 21, 2024Never Lose an Item Again with Apple’s New Share Item Location Feature
It’s your worst nightmare: Your plane is taxiing and you’re looking out the window, only to realize you’ve left your iPad or laptop in the airport. Thanks to a new feature from Apple, these fears can be allayed, ensuring we always know where our valuables are, whether traveling or at home.
Dining/Entertainment
Nov 20, 2024Experience the Only Restaurant Made Entirely of Ice in America
You’ve heard of ice hotels, but what about ice restaurants? When ice Hôtel de Glace de Québec opens in January 2025, it will be home to the only restaurant made entirely of snow and ice in America thanks to a partnership with Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Destinations
Nov 20, 2024What Destinations Are Trending in 2025?
Luxury travel company Scott Dunn looks ahead to 2025 with predictions of hot destinations to visit. These focus on under-explored locations, sustainable tourism and exclusive experiences.
ShareThis