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Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar Reviews List
Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Right in the heart of downtown Raleigh, Bida Manda is a thoughtful and sharp gathering place celebrating the diverse food and culture of Laos. Bida Manda is one of the very first Laotian restaurants in the US. Sanskrit for father and mother, we name the restaurant Bida Manda as our way of honoring our parents in Laos who taught us everything we know about food, hospitality, and the power it has in bringing people together.
Our parents' recipes are the inspiration for our menu. Every dish on our menu is exactly what we grew up eating. They are the kind of dishes you might find on the street corners of Luang Prabang and at a Laotian home.
Come in and go away with us on sensational culinary journey to Laos.
------
Whether it is a birthday dinner for 10 guests or a corporate event for 100+, we will work with you to craft your memorable dining experience. Please contact Vansana Nolintha at vansana@bidamanda.com for more information.
See more Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar details
Our parents' recipes are the inspiration for our menu. Every dish on our menu is exactly what we grew up eating. They are the kind of dishes you might find on the street corners of Luang Prabang and at a Laotian home.
Come in and go away with us on sensational culinary journey to Laos.
------
Whether it is a birthday dinner for 10 guests or a corporate event for 100+, we will work with you to craft your memorable dining experience. Please contact Vansana Nolintha at vansana@bidamanda.com for more information.
247 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Rating Breakdown 247 reviews
5 stars
(156)
4 stars
(81)
3 stars
(9)
2 stars
(1)
1 star
(0)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.6
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(208)
- hot spot(109)
- neighborhood gem(109)
- special occasion(103)
- good for groups(79)
- romantic(78)
Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar Reviews List
Review 1 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Good
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food is good and they provide puffy rice crackers rather than bread. They give lemon juice at the end of the meal to cleanse your palate."
Dined on 6/15/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 2 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A repeat performance
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We slipped into the bar a few weeks ago without a reservation and enjoyed ourselves so much, we planned ahead this time. Last time I had the soft shell crab and my spouse had the pumpkin curry soup and we were both very satisfied, but I really wanted to try the Crispy Rice Lettuce wrap, which had gotten such great reviews in Walter magazine. And it lived up to and exceeded expectations. My wife had the green papaya vegetarian salad and she too was delighted; next time, I will have it with the duck or steak. I thoroughly enjoyed the cashew ginger chicken, and the trio plate for dessert is over the top. We also had the summer rolls as an appetizer, but one does not need to do that, since the crispy rice lettuce wrap is enough for two."
Dined on 6/15/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 3 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Love it!
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 6/12/2013
2013
Dined on 6/12/2013
2013
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great food, atmosphere and service. Catfish, crepe, salmon ceviche, and spring rolls were delicious!"
Dined on 6/12/2013
2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 4 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fabulous!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Some of the best food I have ever eaten. With one bite of the crispy rice salad, you will be transported to another world. The service is outstanding, attentive but not overwhelming. The owner is charming and wants you to enjoy your dining experience in every way."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 5 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
My New Best Favorite Place
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I LOVE BIDA MANDA! I can't believe that this place is just around the corner and I have just discovered it. The food is fresh and delicious and interesting and they take such care to make sure you have the best experience. I will be back again and again. LOVED it!"
Dined on 6/11/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, late-night find, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 6 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Would definitely recommend
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I tried Bida Manda for restaurant week and the menu was fantastic! I definitely recommend the softshell crab appetizer, they take it a little farther than your regular deep-fry with a spicy element. I and the rest of my party enjoyed our entrees and the cocktails were also good, very fresh flavors. The purple rice dessert featured on the restaurant week menu was little underwhelming, it kind of resembled an oatmeal which seemed a poor way to end an otherwise great meal. I would still recommend it, it's different than any other place in Raleigh where good, authentic asian food can be hard to find."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Lovely evening!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I really enjoyed my evening at Bida Manda, but would like to return and try another dish. The service was outstanding!
We ordered the fresh summer rolls as an appetizer - I like how they were cut like sushi so they're easier to eat. They're exactly what you'd expect from a good summer roll - fresh, mild, light.
For dinner I had the pad thai. I really shouldn't have done this because I always order this dish from another restaurant, love it there and am usually disappointed when I get it anywhere else, just because it's different. Boyfriend ordered the short ribs - they were rally delicious! But he said they were a little bland. There were so many other tasty sounding dishes on the menu - I plan to go back and sample. The drinks were YUMMY!"
We ordered the fresh summer rolls as an appetizer - I like how they were cut like sushi so they're easier to eat. They're exactly what you'd expect from a good summer roll - fresh, mild, light.
For dinner I had the pad thai. I really shouldn't have done this because I always order this dish from another restaurant, love it there and am usually disappointed when I get it anywhere else, just because it's different. Boyfriend ordered the short ribs - they were rally delicious! But he said they were a little bland. There were so many other tasty sounding dishes on the menu - I plan to go back and sample. The drinks were YUMMY!"
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 8 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The Service was Perfection
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had an amazing dining experience at Bida Manda. The food was delicious. The flavors are amazing. Spicy, but not so spicy you can't taste all the delciousness going on in the dishes. The service was some of the best I've had in Raleigh. The manager was so nice. Our waitress was great. There's a very New York City feel to the service here: everyone helps each other out and you have two or three people making sure your water is filled and your empty dishes are taken away. I was so happy to eat here. I'll definitely be back."
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 9 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We tried Bida Manda for restaurant week and really enjoyed the dining experience. Delicious food. Excellent service."
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 10 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food, super friendly people
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I was there on a Restaurant Week night when they were unexpectedly swamped. We had to wait 15 minutes past our reservation time to be seated, but they brought us wine when they seated us without even asking and apologized for the wait.
The food was good, though the vegetarian options are limited I was very impressed with what I got. Ample portions with epic presentation, and definitely a departure from the norm in terms of cuisine. You're encouraged to eat many of the dishes with your fingers (including the sticky rice), though they provide chopsticks and silverware too.
Waitstaff was extremely friendly and conversational."
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 11 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A Gem - Great People and Food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Service and knowledge of all the staff was wonderful and food was superb. One owner was there and clearly proud and committed to the restaurant."
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 12 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Awesome addition to Raleigh
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We have been here a few times and it has yet to disappoint. I grew up in Thailand so am used to this food, but I love all types of great food. This food is excellent from both angles. They are willing to make the food hot for those that have the taste for it and mild for those that don't, but either way it is delicious. We always have a great time and the drinks are well thought out and different. I don't absolutely love everything on the menu, but that's just because I don't like everything, but I can see how someone else would like it. The papaya salad and the meat of your choice is my favorite. My husband loves the salmon chili dish. My family is in town this weekend and we took them there and they were equally enamored."
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 13 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding food and service!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a wonderful time at Bida Manda - the food was outstanding and the service was exceptional. It has become one of my favorite restaurants in Raleigh!"
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 14 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
bida BANG
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Went to Bida Manda for the 2nd time and ordered the same exact thing again. It did not disappoint. The service was great and the owner (I assume as he talked about his mother and traditional Laos food) was helping out and really friendly. Took my mom and dad there this time and they have added it to their list of restaurants to frequent. Already thinking about when I will b coming back."
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 15 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great dining experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had a mid week dinner.. the service was excellent. Our server was very friendly and very knowledgeable of the menu, and shared her opinion, which was great. The food and appetizers came fast. Overall great night out."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 16 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Everything was out standing from the food to the service !!!!!!!"
Dined on 6/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, hot spot
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Review 17 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Overall Experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I have nothing but compliments for Bida Manda - great food, service, and atmosphere. The menu has standard dishes such as pad thai and more adventurous offerings as well. Plus, the prices are fairly reasonable given the quality of the food. It's nice to see locally-owned restaurants like this thriving."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene
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Review 18 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Pork Belly Soup...
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Is To Die For!!! Everyone's Food Was Simply Delish! I Love Bringinv Out Of Town Giests There...Very Impressive Place."
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 19 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fantastic!!!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Wonderful dining experience and absolutely delicious food"
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 20 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent Experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We had a group of 8 for dinner (including a few real "foodies") and the experience was all around wonderful. Staff is warm and welcoming, our waitress was accomodating without being intrusive, the drinks were outstanding (They make a cocktail that is on par with Foundation's) and everyone loved their food and was sharing with one another. I had the basil stir fry with beef which was outstanding. Had a drink at the bar while waiting on the rest of the party and the bartender was very friendly. Bida Manda is doing everything right. I can't wait to go back."
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 21 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent Restaurant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My husband and I wanted to try something new for our anniversary so we went there for dinner. The food was EXCELLENT! The waitress and the whole staff was very nice and attentive. The décor is nice. We really enjoyed our dinner. We will be back!"
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 22 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fantastic in every way
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Truly a labor of love. Food fantastic, excellent combination of traditional and traditional with modern influences/techniques (to my limited knowledge). Service outstanding, the owners clearly select their staff carefully. Staff, from the host to the waitstaff, seemed genuinely happy to be working there and to help guests discover Laotian food. Had the Panang crab cakes and the duck larb (traditional way), both excellent. One of the owners stopped by to check how everything was, with genuine care. Highly recommend, it's a must-go!"
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 23 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
great birthday lunch
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This was my first time dining at Bida Manda and I went with a friend to celebrate her birthday. The food and drinks were fresh and great! We will definitely go back!"
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 24 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Awesome!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This restaurant has become one of our favorites!!!"
Dined on 5/21/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, hot spot
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Review 25 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
2nd visit
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Enjoyed our second visit and brought our foodies friends with us... Drinks are exotic and fun !!! Food is tasty and many choices... I was howere disappointed in the lettuce wraps as the were served with small pieces of fried rice only...Not very palatable and no substance...Otherwise great evening...Have been several times and brought friends..."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 26 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
great restaurant
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"First time visit- food quality was excellent, staff was knowledgeable and friendly. Over all a great dining experience."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot
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Review 27 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Well Done, Again!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"What a pleasant time we had at Bida Manda on a Monday night. The staff accommodated us well (even after changing the reservation a bit) and were kind and attentive to detail. Food was very good, well prepared, and unique! I love the little extras they throw in at your meal. So special and thoughtful! Keep up the great work Bida Manda!!"
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, hot spot
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Review 28 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Good all around and a lot of fun. Highly recommend."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 29 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fabulous Food, Fabulous service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Interesting, wonderful food. If you like spicy, even better, although they will prepare your dish with whatever heat that you like.
Service is also outstanding.
A must dine in Raleigh!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
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Review 30 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
my new favorite!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Outstanding food with careful attention to fresh ingredients and magnificent blend of flavors. I had lunch there first which was so good my lunch bunch begged the next hostess for a repeat. Unheard of with this group! If noise is annoying do go for lunch! Great waite staff that are genuinely proud of their food and anxious to please. Dinner was equally delicious a bit more noisy. Only wish is that their chairs were more comfortable. Bravo all in all! See you at lunch soon."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 31 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Food was so-so
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Very little variety and choices on the menu. Few chicken dish, mostly meat or shrimp. The ambience and service was very good, but the food itself was very average. I would give it a 6."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 32 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Having dined at Bida Manda 4 times now, I can report that the quality of food and service are consistently excellent. What a treat to have a Laotian restaurant in downtown Raleigh. It’s a great opportunity to show off the local dining scene to visitors as I have yet to find anyone who has been to a Laotian restaurant! Vansana and Vanvisa Nolintha are always welcoming and manage the logistics superbly. Every dish has been terrific. Favorites include Duck Larb, Pork Belly Soup, and the Saffron Crepe with shrimp and bacon. Bida Manda is truly a local treasure!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 33 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
amazing
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I saw this place while walking to another restaurant for brunch. I took my sis there for her birthday and it was more amazing than I could have imagined!"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 34 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Exceptional food and service. One of our new favorites."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 35 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Raleigh is lucky to have Bida Manda
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bida Manda is the kind of place you expect to find in a much larger city, deep within a "Little Laos" neighborhood. This is much more than generic "Thai food" available anywhere. The variety, quality and care for every detail provides the essence of the best from this brother/sister teams own family. Try something you have never had (that will be easy) and enjoy the result. A great place for lunch now as well."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
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Review 36 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Bida Manda's seen better service
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"They are usually packed so they should be use to it. Why would it take over 20 minutes for a carafe of wine?
Also, I know their food - it's delicious but when you've left the rice get HARD and DRY so it's painful to chew, there's something wrong. Don't insult a customer by saying "well that's the rice it comes with.... would you prefer the sticky rice?" It was awful - throw it away and make it fresh!
I was embarrassed as I had brought my best friend, visiting from RI, as THE restaurant I wanted her to experience."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene
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Review 37 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
inspired, authentic food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"fish wrapped in banana leaves- yum, crunchy, sticky rice served in small bamboo steamers- awesome!, lettuce wraps- crunchy and delicious-
One time, server was way over-busy, but second time better- only complaint, wine-pour was less than half a glass (server said that was right, but subsequent glasses fuller)"
One time, server was way over-busy, but second time better- only complaint, wine-pour was less than half a glass (server said that was right, but subsequent glasses fuller)"
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 38 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
I'd return
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I thought it was good but it was so hyped that I think my expectations were too high. I also think I ordered the wrong dish. I'll go back and order something else.I recommend it though. The food was good and it was a great dining atmosphere."
Dined on 3/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 39 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Very good, fun new cuisine
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was our first time at Bida Manda and we really enjoyed the food. We had never tried either larb or papaya salad, and we liked them both very much. We also enjoyed sharing the crispy rice lettuce wraps and the stuffed pepper. There were so many other things that interested us on the menu that I am sure we'll be back."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 40 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A Real Find
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We had heard so much about Bida Manda that we went in with great skepticism. However, we were not disappointed. The scene is casual and relaxed, and the staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. We had crispy rice lettuce wraps for an appetizer, papaya salad with lemongrass chicken, and beef larb. All was outstanding and very fresh. We also loved the small Laotian baskets that held sticky rice. This is a real find for Raleigh. Maybe it will further revitalize the Moore Square area. We definitely will come back -- and bring friends with us!"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 41 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
excellent
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"really good food and attentive service. would go back again and again and again. can seem a bit crowded if seated at an actual table in the bar area, but well worth the inconvenience. loved the pad thai - not overly sweet like the thai versions. they will make food as hot as requested, which is great for those of us who want heat off the menu scale. would recommend to anyone who is interested in something different. but, even the meat and potatoes person in our group enjoyed his meal."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 42 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing food and service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The overall experience at Bida Manda is fantastic! We greatly enjoyed the soft shell crab appetizer, pork belly soup (must try) and the chicken curry. The service is excellent and the owners presence is warmly felt in the restaurant. This will definitely be our go to restaurant in downtown Raleigh."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
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Review 43 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Outstanding!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were totally impressed with the food, the variety, and the personal attention we received. The owner visited our table several times. Presentation was lovely, but the servings were also generous. I have already told some friends about this very nice experience."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 44 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Never Disapoints!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Bida Manda is my favorite restaurant in Raleigh - truly wonderful food, people, and expierence!"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 45 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Will come back!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was delicious- really wonderful flavors. Highly recommend the catfish entree. Great service and knowledgable waitstaff"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, kid-friendly
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Review 46 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great evening out!
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was terrific, especially the ginger pork ribs. I loved the pineapple-infused sugar cube in my champagne cocktail. Great service, our waiter was eager to please. Great new place for the Raleigh scene"
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 47 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Will Go Back Again
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Only got to try two new things, but will go back again to make my way through the other items that I didn't get to try. Everything tastes fresh and is beautifully presented."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 48 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful food and service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Wonderful food, great service, nice quaint restaurant."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2009
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Review 49 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Can't recommend this restaurant
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Can't recommend this restaurant enough. So, so good!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 50 for Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Every aspect of Bida Manda
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Every aspect of Bida Manda is top rate. The cocktail, wine and beer lists are all very fine with novel choices and savvy choices. Although small the bar and restuarant are far from cramped. The food menu has something for everyone but beware the "Lao hot" spice option. We'll certainly be returning."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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