Thai One On leaves; L'Explorateur on the way

It's been known for some time that Thai One On would be closing. The Thai restaurant at 6523 Ferguson St. was always tasty but never drew a large crowd. Susan Guyett in the Star points out that the location probably had an effect, and I suspect that's partly right. But I would look to other factors as well. There's already an existing Thai restaurant in Broad Ripple, the Thai Cafe on the Avenue. With an established client base, more visible location, and lower prices, the competition was probably too much for Thai One On.

The space however is quite interesting. It was originally renovated to house the much-missed Tavoli di Tosa. It was a perfect setting for the upscale destination restaurant, and my understanding is that the restaurant was performing well when it closed due to partnership pressures. The space was still beautiful, but Thai One On was a bit of a difficult fit there.

Now, Guyett gives voice to the ill-kept rumor about its next occupant: Neal Brown's new restaurant, L'Explorateur. (The restaurant has its own website, but there's no content out there yet. And somebody needs to slap these restauranteurs around until they understand that Flash interface = bad.) Again, the building will revert to a more upscale occupant, which it's suited for. Still, it will be interesting to see how the new venture goes; it's clearly targeted to be adventurous, which will challenge the Indy market a bit.

I don't understand the economics of high-end dining, particularly in Broad Ripple (which must draw less corporate business compared to either Downtown or the 86th St corridor). So I can't judge whether L'Explorateur will be successful. But I'm sure we'll try it out at some point, and when we do, I'll share our impressions.