Taste of Thailand (and Japan, too)

For years, Bangor residents have wondered what would fill the former Bagel Shop space on the corner of Main and Hammond streets. The answer is here, in the form of a new Thai-Japanese restaurant called Thai Siam. It is owned by Paula Tangsirilak, a former California restaurateur; Patavee Sungvian of Thailand; and Mona Rustanavibul, formerly of Texas. Thai Siam serves such favorites as Pad Thai, curries and fresh Thai rolls, but it also has a sushi corner. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday. For information, call 262-9399.

Gourmet to go

You’re looking to wow your sweetheart with a gourmet dinner at home this Valentine’s Day, but there’s one problem: You can’t boil water. You always could order takeout from your favorite neighborhood eatery. Or, you could order dinner from Charlie Trotter’s landmark Chicago restaurant, or the French Laundry in Yountville, Calif., and have it delivered to your door. A new Internet takeout service, www.FiveLeaf.com, allows you to order meals to go from some of the country’s top restaurants. They’re shipped overnight in a refrigerated container. All you have to do is heat and eat. You could dirty a few pots and pans and pretend you made it yourself. Appetizers start at $9.99. For information, call (866) 348-3532 or visit www.FiveLeaf.com.

Soup’s on

What could be better on a cold day than a hot bowl of soup? How about a freshly made, all-natural bowl of soup? A new line of chowders, soups and chilis by Chelsea, Mass.-based Kettle Cuisine has popped up in refrigerators at Shaw’s, Shop ‘n Save and Hannaford stores throughout the state. The company doesn’t use soup bases, MSG, chemical additives or preservatives. Bangor Daily News staffers tested several varieties last week, including Hungarian Mushroom, Cream of Broccoli, Carrot Ginger and Seafood Chowder, and found them to be fresh, flavorful and a bit salty, but most pre-made soups are. For information, visit www.kettlecuisine.com.