We were on the fence about the water beetle and ended up not getting it. We totally regretted it after asking our server how it is at the end of our meal. It was a few months ago now so i can't remember the details but she made it sound like we would have enjoyed the experience. I'm not sure if anything i said is helpful, other than the server was very knowledgeable.
Our Happy Hour menu is available online at http://www.nueseattle.com/happy-hour/ The Thai water beetle (Maeng Da) on our menu, is one of the most interesting flavors I've come across and can most accurately be described and floral. The flavor is quite intense and and although 'floral' is a good general term for the flavor, to compare it to something familiar I'd say Green Apple Jolly Rancher candy :) All of flavor is natural and comes from a pheromone that the beetle produces. Nam phrik, a popular Thai chili sauce is traditionally flavored with these. As they can be a bit of a delicacy even in Thailand, an artificial flavored liquid is also available for purchase there that most household can keep on hand at a lower price point. Think of the way we use artificial vanilla but with bugs. We also flavor a vodka with them in-house for those who want to try, but are unable to get over eating something with legs. Let me know if you have any other questions!
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