Budsi’s Authentic Thai

I felt compelled to write this review because of the immense impact the customer service at this restaurant had on me and my friends. I was visiting New Orleans last month for a wedding. In searching for new and interesting places to eat my friends and I came across this restaurant. At face value, everything was great—relaxed atmosphere, good music (primarily R&B), and delicious food.

HOWEVER, after spending over $70.00 on 6 dishes. It was brought to our attention that every last dish we purchased was cooked with or contained shellfish. I’m allergic to shell fish. Upon requesting to speak with the manager in regards to switch out ONE dish for something made without shellfish. We were met with the most INSENSITIVE, CONDESCENDING, and PREJUDICE response from the manager on staff. She never asked if I was okay or needed additional care. She instead re-enforced their ‘No accommodation policy” as it pertained to allergy related food illnesses (which, might I add, was NOT LISTED ANYWHERE ON THE MENU; but instead, is written on a small piece of paper above the register— at a register surrounded by multiple hand written specials). Upon explaining to her that we missed the advisory notice and found the notice NO WHERE on the actual menu, she then in the most condescending tone replied “Well, it’s Thai food. Everyone knows there is shellfish in Thai food.” As to say it’s our fault for never having experienced a Thai dinning experience. If that wasn’t enough the manager then jokes about my possible allergic reaction by suggesting that I get shrimp as a protein for the replacement dish…

This was the most unprofessional dinning experience I’ve ever witnessed. We were so shocked at the treatment of this establishment and felt completely un-welcomed. Our willing patronism of and joy in trying this this restaurant was shattered so much that we had to leave. After requesting the replaced dish and being berated by the manager. She then proceeded to stare at us from behind the counter… This was the final straw that told us that not only was this not a safe space but that we needed to leave immediately. So to that we packed our food up and left. Unfortunately we did not feel safe eating the food that was so graciously prepared by the chef of this establishment. I hope no-one ever has to experience what we experienced at this restaurant. I’m sure the food is delicious but we will never know because we were run out of the establishment before we could even taste it.