Without a cancelled flight to thank, I’m not sure if I ever would have discovered Thai Chili & Sushi. Located just west of Peña Boulevard in a tiny strip mall, this Pan-Asian restaurant saved my hungry self from a trip through the dreaded drive-thru. On first glance, the restaurant appeared nondescript but it soon revealed itself to be quite a find.

The seafood entrées, in particular, were bountiful and beautifully prepared. The Asian King special (pictured), also known as the Seafood Combination, was loaded with fresh scallops, plump shrimp, and a full shell-on tail of lobster. The sizzling platter arrived with a colorful collection of steamed bok choy, broccoli, zucchini, pea pods, mushrooms, and Thai basil. Best of all, the well seasoned dish was sans MSG.

The sushi rolls were also well constructed with nicely compacted rice, artfully drizzled sauces, and the flavors of each ingredient tasted fresh and well balanced. Paired with sake from the small list, Thai Chili & Sushi made a long—and unexpected—layover more palatable.

16221 E. 40^th Ave., Ste. D, 303-307-1119