By Ahmad Yassir, Vermont Country Magazine.
Step through the doors of TAAN in downtown Bennington, and the Green Mountains fade into the background as the scents of lemongrass, coconut, and fresh herbs carry you halfway across the world. This isn’t just dinner, it’s a vibrant journey into the heart of Thailand, guided by chef and founder Jariya Wannapat, whose mastery blends authentic flavors, seasonal Vermont ingredients, and an unforgettable sense of hospitality.
Upcoming Exclusive Dinner Parties – Mark Your Calendar
TAAN isn’t just a restaurant, it’s also a stage for intimate, themed, and exclusive dinner parties, perfect for individuals, couples, and small groups. The next one is scheduled for September 12. These evenings weave together live pianist Rob Ellis, curated menus, and immersive décor. Past highlights include unforgettable Mother’s Day soirées and uniquely heartfelt celebrations of Thanksgiving and Christmas. To stay on top of future events, be sure to follow TAAN on social media, these magical evenings often sell out quickly.
Authentic Thai Cuisine, Locally Rooted
Under the guidance of founder and chef Jariya Wannapat, TAAN crafts authentic Thai dishes with an unwavering devotion to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Jariya works closely with Vermont and regional farms to cultivate produce such as tomatoes, peppers, and string beans—bringing freshness and community spirit into every bite.
A Home-Style Elegance
The charm of TAAN lies in its rare duality: visually refined and sophisticated, yet unpretentious and warmly inviting in its approach. While plates are beautifully presented, generously portioned, and flavor-forward, guests delight in the homestyle ethos. With the prix fixe menu, additional rice bowls and tea are offered at no extra charge, reflecting Jariya’s philosophy that hospitality should never feel transactional.
A Feast for the Senses
Dining at TAAN is an experience that awakens all your senses. Every setting is meticulously styled, from the elegant table settings to the subtle, herbal aromas wafting from the kitchen. Add in Jariya’s graceful presence—often adorned in exquisite traditional attire—and the evening becomes not just a meal, but a cultural embrace.
Menu Highlights
TAAN offers both prix fixe and à la carte menus that evolve with the seasons. Highlights include:
- GOONG HOM SABAI – Deep-fried prawns wrapped in delicate egg noodles
- TOM KHA GAI – Coconut chicken soup
- LAAB GAI – Minced chicken salad with mint, shallots, rice powder, chili-lime dressing
- KAPROW (Tofu / Gai / Nue) – Choice of tofu, chicken, or beef stir-fried with garlic, chili, and holy basil
- GAENG GARI GAI / NUE – Yellow curry in coconut milk with potato, tomato, carrot
- PAD PAK RUAM (V, G) – Stir-fry of mixed vegetables & tofu in light brown sauce
- MASSAMUN GAI / NUE – Mildly spicy massaman curry with onion and potato
- CHOO CHI PLA – Grilled salmon in red curry sauce
- PLA SAM ROD – Fried fish fillet with sweet-and-sour chili topping
- GAENG HUNGLAY NUA – Beef Tenderloin in tangy sweet northern curry with shallots, garlic, and ginger
- GOONG PAD PREW WAN – Prawns sautéed in house sweet-and-sour sauce with bell pepper, onion, pineapple & cashews
- FRIED BANANA WITH HONEY – Deep-fried banana roll drizzled with honey and sesame
- KHAO NEEO MAMUANG – Sweet Sticky Rice Mango
Note from the writer: Guests can always request modifications to their dishes. Jariya works with fresh ingredients and is always happy to accommodate dietary needs—or even the preferences of picky eaters.
Voices from the Table
TAAN’s warmth and culinary finesse consistently earn glowing praise. One reviewer shared:
“We left feeling like honored guests in Jariya’s beautiful home. The care, attention to detail and commitment to quality shone through in every aspect of the dining experience.”
Another declared:
“This is the BEST THAI MEAL I HAVE EVER HAD. Food was simple, clean, bright with flavor. Not too sweet or spicy. Impeccable.”
These reflections capture the rare balance TAAN strikes between authenticity, generosity, and artistry.
Why TAAN Shines as a Vermont Travel Destination
TAAN is the kind of hidden treasure Vermont travel writers dream about. It elevates downtown Bennington’s culinary scene, offering a sensory-rich journey that is both rooted in community and transports you across the globe.
For food and travel enthusiasts, TAAN delivers
The authentic flavors and elegance of Thailand, woven together with Vermont seasonality.
A homestyle warmth that makes every guest truly feel at home.
Immersive dinner parties that transform a meal into a memory.
Visit TAAN on a regular night, or better yet, experience one of their themed dinners, and treat yourself to a journey in flavor, hospitality, and tradition, right in the Green Mountain State.
