Eating at Khan Toke Thai House is a unique experience for the first-timer, and is just as memorable for returning customers. First of all, the location is nowhere near the tourist areas. It's located in an area known as the Richmond District.

The restaurant itself is much like a beautiful house, complete with a small garden area in the back. Upon entering the restaurant, you will be asked to remove your shoes. You will then be led to a low table with a "sunken" area for your feet. Hosts/Hostesses and servers wear traditional garb. The decor is filled with carved teak furniture, low lighting and tapestries. On Friday or Saturday evenings, there are sometimes traditional Thai dancers.

The food is good overall and reasonably priced (most entrees are $6.95 to $12.95). My friends and I are big fans of the chicken larb -- ground chicken with red onions, toasted rice, mint leaves and lime sauce for $6.75. Also, try the beef satay ($6.95) or the pad thai ($8.75). Dessert choices are tapioca pudding, fried banana with honey and/or ice cream, and coconut ice cream (priced from $3.50 to $4.25). There are many vegetarian choices, as well as a prix fixe menu for $19.95 per person, which includes soup, salad, two entrees, dessert and hot tea or hot coffee. Beer and wine are served, and credit cards are accepted. They're only open for dinner, however.