Phuket I’m Vegan: A review of the new vegan online menu at Sushi Karma

One of my favorite pastimes is exploring different sushi restaurants KC has to offer. I was stoked when I discovered the year-old restaurant Sushi Karma, located in Mission at 5820 Johnson Drive. In addition to traditional sushi, the restaurant has a vegan online menu called “Phuket I’m Vegan.” 

As a health nut who’s not quite ready to make the full transition into a vegan lifestyle, I love searching for new vegan cuisine that tastes just as amazing as the non-vegan option. As soon as I found that restaurant, I didn’t hesitate dialing their number to order takeout.

Scrolling through their menu, I was intrigued by the unique options — pumpkin spice fried rice, yellow curry and stir-fried eggplant — but opted for the ‘Noodles’ section instead. I found just what I was looking for — vegan Pad Thai. Wanting to try out as much of the menu as possible, I added Vegetable Spring Rolls and their Tom Kha coconut soup to my order. 

When I called in my order for pickup, the employees were very enthusiastic and accommodating. They were quick to give details about the Pad Thai, saying that they highly recommend it.

After a short wait of 30 minutes, I headed to Mission to pick up my order. Pulling up in front of Sushi Karma I could hear jazz music playing outside making for a pleasant, welcoming atmosphere. The workers were very generous, handing me my order within 30 seconds of walking in.

With the bag in hand, I scurried to my car eager to get home and eat. The aroma of the vegan Pad Thai filled every inch of my car — which made me press the gas pedal a little harder in a rush to get home and so I could dig in.

I evaluated the Pad Thai’s quality based strictly on three factors: flavor, presentation and texture. Opening the box, the aromas of ginger and lime were apparent. The noodles were presented beautifully with bean sprouts, peanuts, tofu and vegetables neatly placed on top, giving a satisfying crunchy texture in addition to the noodles. 

I was hesitant about the tofu in my Pad Thai after a previously negative experience with soggy and bland tofu. Thankfully, each inch-long-cube was satisfying and flavorful with its coating of Pad Thai sauce and crispy, cooked exterior.

And if you’re looking for a light palette cleanser between each bite of Pad Thai, or whatever you’ve ordered, the Tom Kha coconut soup is perfect. It comes with a hefty 16 oz serving — ideal to split with friends or to keep for leftovers. The chunks of mushroom and broccoli added a nice texture to the coconut soup. 

However, the flavor of the broth was bland and left a bad aftertaste in my mouth — I realized I’m not a big fan of coconut. I won’t be ordering this item again, but my mom was more than willing to take it off my hands and enjoy my leftovers the next day.

With the combination of the glass noodles, cabbage and carrots, the vegetable spring rolls were light. It came with a side of savory peanut sauce, which was an excellent dip that tied the whole dish together. 

The biggest downfall of the spring rolls was their price: only two for $8. I felt like I could’ve eaten at least four, so I was disappointed by the small portions. But, I can’t deny they were better than any Bo Lings or Red Snapper spring rolls I’ve had in the past. 

While being satisfied yet not painstakingly full, I would say my first trip trying out the ‘Phuket I’m Vegan’ menu was a success. Compared to other authentic Thai restaurants I would come here first seeking out the vegan menu. I’ll be sure to drag my friends along the next time I’m craving some savory, delicious Asian food.