I love Asian food, and after some overly-greasy Best Wok deliveries, I was happy to hear about the new addition to Taste of Nashville, Satay, a Thai grill tucked away on Elliston right next to Calypso and Roma Pizza. I went this past Saturday and was a bit skeptical about entering as the restaurant was empty and the cashier was sitting at a table, glued to the football game on TV. But then I remembered it was only 5:00 p.m., a reasonable excuse for a deserted restaurant. Once I walked in, the cashier jumped behind the counter, also a good sign. After looking around, I realized Satay wasn’t sketchy at all, but quirky with bright red walls and a collection of random colorful paintings ranging from a giant tiger to a snow-covered barn. Not exactly your typical Thai diner decor, but charming nonetheless.

The menu was small and simplistic, with typical Asian fare like spring rolls, coconut soup and a selection of grilled meats paired with rice. What is great about Satay is that you can get a plain meal of chicken and rice, but pair it with one of their many sauces including red, green or yellow curry, Panang and Sesame Ginger. I selected their Peanut Sauce with grilled chicken and white rice. The sauce was very flavorful and made my simple meal a savory dish I couldn’t stop eating. My friend got the grilled beef and curry sauce, which wasn’t as good as my meal, but not bad. She did order one of my favorite parts of our dinner, however, the spring rolls, which were crispy and delicious. Rather than feeling gross and smelling of Chinese grease, which is my usual sensation after a meal of Best Wok, I felt full and actually healthy as my meal was accompanied by a fresh green salad. Granted, my peanut sauce was probably not low-cal, but it came on the side so I was able to add the proper amount to my chicken and rice, again a high contrast to Best Wok’s overly-sauced dishes.

So, next time you’re craving some Asian food, check out Satay — it’s great to pick up or eat there and enjoy the odd artwork with friends. Despite their limited options, I’m looking forward to my return, perhaps to sample their soup or intriguing Thai teas.