Photographer: Terence Ong (Wikipedia Commons)
The name says it all really - 'In and Out' is the way I usually interact with this little local restaurant, but just because it's quick doesn't mean it's nasty. Quite the opposite actually!
You know those hidden local gems, that only the neighbours know and love?! We all have them, and sometimes we share them with our friends and family who come to visit. But otherwise, these amazing kitchens remain largely unknown - and happily so.
I discovered In and Out Thai at Rockdale, when I lived in a block of units behind it. Walking home from the train station one afternoon, I stopped and ordered my usual Thai favourite - Pad Thai with veggies and tofu. And I've been hooked ever since.
It's fresh, tasty and with prices under $10 for a full size portion I have yet to find someone who does not rave about the Pad Thai from In and Out.
Today, I drove over - seeing that I am no longer living nearby - and decided to try the Peanut sauce noodles. I was a little worried, not knowing if I was making a big mistake. But alas, my noodles were delicious and the peanut sauce thick and tasty, add to that a generous serving of fresh veggies and tofu - and once again my tummy was happy.
Hidden in the back streets beside the Target department store - 5/ 10 King Street Rockdale - the staff are friendly and on some occasions have offered me a free can of drink with my meal. The service is quick which is great when you just want to get home and put your feet up, and they also deliver if you live close enough.
I know I will find another local gem soon, but for now I am more than happy taking the short detour back to In and Out for my Pad Thai fix.
