International District Favorite Thai Curry Simple Forced to Close for Months After Fire

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Thai Curry Simple Forced to Close for Months After Fire

Those passing by Thai Curry Simple in the International District this week may be alarmed to note it’s now closed — but that should only be temporary. Co-owner Mark Pinkaow tells Eater Seattle that the longtime lunch favorite — known for its noodles and namesake curries — had to shut down after a fire this weekend. Luckily, no one was injured, but the damage was substantial enough that the restaurant will need to be closed for a few months to do repairs and cleanup. Mark and his wife Picha also own the Thai restaurant Wann Yen in the U District, popular for its shaved ice.

Korean Bowl Truck Ready to Debut Permanent Location

Time for some more meaty Korean dishes on Capitol Hill. A well-regarded Korean barbecue food truck called Seoul Bowl — which lets diners mix and match their bowls from selections that include kimchi bacon rice, bulgogi beef, soy-pork, and a melted “cheese fall” — plans to open a permanent spot on 12th Avenue, near Seattle University, per Capitol Hill Seattle. In addition to the food items featured from the truck, the new spot will also have soju, beer, and a towering cocktail that combines the two. Previews will start this weekend, with an official opening soon after. It’ll join the about-to-open Korean barbecue place Meet Korean BBQ as a new carnivorous entry to the neighborhood.

Iconic Specialty Food Story Big John’s PFI Plans to Move

For nearly 50 years, Big John’s PFI has been known as a hidden gem for specialty groceries and gourmet items — and now it looks like a new era is about to start. The grocer announced on Facebook that it will soon be moving out of its current SODO location because of construction around the area, and relocating to 1608 S Dearborn St, across from the Goodwill near Rainier Ave S (so not incredibly far). There is no exact timeline on when the new spot will open, but Big John’s PFI says it hopes for March or early April.