Ever heard the phrase, "don't judge a book by its cover"? It may have been referring to Bangkok Thai. The restaurant's shabby exterior may conjure up images of greasy, take-out Thai fare. However, walk inside and you'll be pleasantly surprised to see an exquisitely clean and modern dining room. The tables that line the middle of the room align perfectly and symmetrically with the booths attached to either wall. Little shelves hang above every booth and hold either a simple vase or a traditional Thai statue.

The place settings on the table are minimal, so you won't have to clear 10 different utensils to make room for your food. You are only given a napkin and a fork, and the most clutter you'll see (which is hardly clutter at all) is a tray of different garnishes and spices (jalapeno peppers, sugar, chile salsa) with which to top your meal.

Plenty of dishes here will tempt your palate. The deep-fried egg rolls ($3.95) are a crispy treat (unlike soggy Chinese egg rolls). Ten noodle dishes ($8-$9) include your choice of noodle (glass, egg or rice), meat and veggies. Entrees—like Basil (stir-fried onion, sweet pepper, peapods, mushrooms and choice of meat)—all go for under $9.

This restaurant nearly bursts with heart, especially when you come in for dinner. While you are munching on your noodles, notice the staff sitting down together for a home-cooked meal at a large round table. Never has eating Thai made you feel so right-at-home.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Jill Kozak