Presentation counts for a lot, and Dib nails it, not only with its beautiful Thai dishes but also in the decor. With its quiet, carpeted dining room and simple white lampshades balanced against the fanciful curlicue silverware, comfy padded booths and black-and-white motif, the space, which was formerly occupied by eatery Preaw Whan, has upgraded.

Dib calls a tidy strip mall its home, which means there's ample parking despite its location a few blocks from Uptown's busy theater district. Inside, the small restaurant has less than 30 seats, but it doesn’t feel cramped. The attentive wait staff will patiently explain menu items to you; you may need some help deciphering the exotic maki. And, especially for a Thai place, the maki is more than good. Standouts include the cheesy crisp roll ($12), with smoked salmon, cream cheese and asparagus topped with a BBQ sauce.

Before you delve into the sushi, though, start with a rich Thai iced tea ($2). The strongly caffeinated drink turns a rusty dark orange as the cream and tea mix in the icy glass. Served steaming hot, the crab rangoon here, with its crunchy flaky crust enveloping cream cheese with chives, is one of the best around. The lightly-breaded tempura tastes crisp and not too oily. Vegetarians and even vegans can enjoy several items on the menu labeled especially for them. A variety of noodle dishes, including a huge portion of pad thai, and curries round out the menu. Finish off the night with taro custard or mochi, balls of sticky rice filled with ice cream, or open one more bottle of whatever you brought with you.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Bill Burman