Rod Dee

A few weeks ago Rod Dee opened a new location right in Porter Square. Many of you will recognize Rod Dee as the old Thai standby in Coolidge Corner. For the second time in one week, I entered a restaurant thinking it was sit down, only to find that you order at the counter and then seat yourself. It should also be noted that the space is extremely clean and the atmosphere is bright and cheerful. Rod Dee has only been open for a few weeks so it will be interesting to see if the cleanliness remains several months down the line.

Pad see ew with pork. The noodles could have been a little chewier and more sturdy.

I ordered the vegetable Massaman curry with brown rice. The person who prepared it accidentally put my curry in a to-go dish instead of a bowl. I was somewhat surprised they did not just transfer it to a plate before bringing it over. The curry was served directly on top of the rice. Most of the time when I order a curry the rice is served on the side. I’m okay with the rice being soaked in the coconut curry sauce, because that is what I end up doing anyway when the rice is on the side, but this rice was unpleasantly mushy. I don’t know if that is a function of the rice sitting in the sauce or if it was overcooked to begin with. Aside from the mushy rice, I was pleased with the flavor of the curry.

Both dishes were each under $8, which is definitely a bargain. Rod Dee was certainly satisfactory and would perfect if you are looking for quick and cheap takeout. For my money though, I would rather spend a few more dollars and get excellent Thai food just a few blocks down Mass Ave at Tamarind House.

Rod Dee
1906 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA