You don't often find pad Thai and spring rolls alongside bagels and lox and espresso drinks at an Asian eatery. But that's just what you can expect at Java Thai, where the odd-couple cuisine is almost as noteworthy as the unbeatable prices. Entrees (from peanut-y noodles to chicken salad sandwiches) cost $4-$6, and beverages average $2-$3.

Tucked away in the bottom corner of an apartment building on West Irving Park Road, the no-fuss cafe offers minimal eye-candy: Watercolor paintings and drawings decorate the exposed brick walls and wood paneling, the floorboards creep up and tape keeps most of the well-worn menus in tact. A collection of Thai figurines sits atop the restaurant's massive espresso machine, and a strip of white Christmas lights borders the espresso bar. Dim lighting and zero natural sunlight (due to Java's basement location) make for an eye-strain, so consider bringing your reading glasses if you want to see the menu or your meal.

With room for only about 10 tables, Java Thai isn't the sort of place to host a birthday party with 100 of your closes friends. But arrive with a crowd of two or three, and you should have an easy time finding a spot as the customers move in and out at a pretty steady pace. Stop in on Thursday at 7 p.m. or Sunday from noon-3 p.m. to enjoy live jazz with your meal.

Centerstage Reviewer: Eve Ardell