With so many trendy Asian-themed restaurants around these days (doesn't the word "fusion" make you cringe?), the traditional, simple demeanor of Thai Kitchen should prove refreshing to the jaded diner. It presents the perfect place to go on a slow, rainy weekend afternoon (after perhaps a long, crazy Friday or Saturday night). The serene setting—highlighted by dark wood walls, maroon window treatments and Thailand scenery paintings— provides a pleasant escape from the nasty, over-commercialized outside world.

The generous portions fill the belly and warm the soul without robbing the wallet. Most entrees cost under $8. Even better, the Thailand treasure promotes health-consciousness. It uses organic products as well as reduced-sodium soy sauce, and boasts a long list of diet specials on the menu. Don't worry, this does not mean a plate full of unsalted bamboo shoots. Take the yum eggplant entree, for example. Seasoned with green onions, spicy Thai chili sauce and cilantro, it comes with shrimp and zucchini to tickle the taste buds. Before the main course, make sure to order a bowl of the tom yum khong soup, a hot and sour soup with shrimp, lime leaves, onions, mushrooms and lemon grass broth topped with a slice of galanga, a robust ginger. To end the meal on an even higher note, indulge in a succulent smoothie dessert. Flavors include mango, strawberry, banana and coconut.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Paige Gray