Lil Rita's Grill House (Thai Cuisine) — Restaurant in Harlingen

Recently, the Wife and me had an opportunity to stop in on this hidden gem of Harlingen when it comes to Truly Authentic Thai cuisine. At first glance, you arrive to think that you are going to visit someone at their home but as soon as you open the door, you are greeted with wonderful aroma of herbs and spices that are permutating the room from the kitchen.

We were welcomed by two lovely ladies (Sarah and Steph) who advised us to sit where we would like. The cozy atmosphere was very warming and inviting to where we did not feel like we were in restaurant but rather visiting family.

We looked over the menu and decided for trying out a few different options.

Thai Iced Tea: Sweet and bold that blended quite well together but should be taken in stride as if you are not careful, you will finish this drink quickly and no refills are included with it.

Spring Rolls: The fresh rolls were great but what set them off was having them placed on fresh spinach to compliment the Peanut and Garlic Vinegar Dipping sauces.

Pad Thai w/ Shrimp: This dish absolutely screams "Made with love from Bangkok" as the flavors mixed with spicy goodness was a homerun in my books as it has been quite a long time that i have not had great Thai food.

Pad Wun Sen w/chicken: Glass noodles stir fry with mushrooms, egg, cherry tomatoes, onions and cilantro was a balance of sweet and savory. The wife mentioned that it was a little salty for her taste but when mixed in with the jasmine rice, it blended great.

Each portion was made just right, not too little or too much. For those who complain that the portions are too small, there are all you can eat buffet places down the road. As for the pricing, Each entree plate was about $15/ person which is appropriate for the authentic flavors that can not be substituted with local markets as many of the ingredients have to be imported.

Overall, if you have not had a chance to stop in, you do not know what you are missing and expect that we will be returning again soon hungry for another great meal. Thank you Sarah and Steph for the amazing service and...

Very nice staff member who answered phone for take-out. Got 4 meals through take-out. Pad Thai’s only veg/fruit was a lime wedge and very thickly shredded carrots - no cilantro, green onion, or hot peppers on the side. The yellow curry was white colored w only potatoes and no spice or seasoning, except salt. Mild shouldn’t mean no taste. The green curries (one med, one spicy) were better and we appreciated the ample eggplant and spice levels, but eggplant was the only noticeable veggie. All three curries were in small containers. The food wasn’t worth the price, but it wasn’t horrible. It was edible. We ate here about a year ago and it was much better then. Unsure if they had a different cook on the day we came. Will try again and hopefully the food will...

Was very disappointed with the food. Maybe because I am comparing to big city Thai restaurants, it lacked flavor. Had the curry and with chicken and potato only, one ingredient apart from chicken. Usually, I have curry with at least 3 additional ingredients. I also got charged $2 or $1 for a little more of rice. Thai tea was so watered down, just lost of sugar tasted like water and sugar. Remindes me of when I lost taste with COVID No flavor. Spring rolls were not good at all either. This place is so expensive, $31 for one person. I personally would never...