Food Stuff

Neighborhoods are not static. They go through cycles of growth, decline and, hopefully, resurgence. Midtown is in the latter stage. In fact, Midtown is now hot enough to attract successful restaurants that have never before ventured out of the ’burbs. Thai Basil Café, which has locations in Roseville and Laguna, had a soft opening less than two weeks ago at the prime corner of 25th and J streets. Foot traffic alone brought in several parties, who were warmly greeted by the polite young staff. Those first guests enjoyed the novelty of being there at the beginning, of being the first to see the dining room’s new look, of being able to get a table with no waiting required. Enjoy the quiet while you can, because Thai Basil’s delicious dishes, bearing the lively freshness of lime, spice and mint, won’t go unnoticed in this dynamic part of town. 2431 J Street, 442-7690, lunch and dinner.