RIVER FALLS — Lily Thai Restaurant, a restaurant serving authentic Thai food, opened its doors in River Falls in early December, looking to diversify the food options in the city.

The business’ owner, Li Ta, also owns Bimi Thai Restaurant in Hastings. Many customers were willing to make the trip from all over to enjoy the food, and that helped encourage a location in River Falls.

“I got a lot of customers from Red Wing and River Falls,” Ta said. “There’s no Thai food at all [in River Falls], two Chinese places and a bunch of bars.”

Ta has enjoyed the business side of owning restaurants and much of his family has the cooking skill to help the operation run.

“My close relatives, they know how to cook because they’ve been working for a Thai restaurant for many, many years,” Ta said.

Although they have only been in River Falls for a short time, they have already felt the love from the River Falls community.

“We are very grateful to be here in River Falls because we have a lot of support,” Ta said. “We just want to say thank you for supporting our family and our business.”

The restaurant serves all the Thai classics including curries, pad dishes, some chef specials, egg/spring rolls, fried rice, desserts and much more. It is open from 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
Bimi Thai Restaurant has received great reviews in its time in Hastings, with 13 Facebook reviews all recommending it and 10 Tripadvisor reviews averaging out to a 4.5 star rating.

“Amazing food, kind waitresses, beautiful atmosphere. I cant wait to go back to try more items on the menu,” one reviewer wrote.

In its short time open in River Falls, Lily Thai Restaurant has already received some positive reviews.

“Great selection, reasonable prices, and amazing service! Highly recommend! Opened today!  Can't wait to come back,” another review read.

The restaurant is located at 127 N. Main St. in River Falls and features online ordering and catering options for interested customers.