This place used to have a dingy dive kind of feel that included cramped quarters and a dark dining area. However, the food was excellent and the service fast. Even though it was always packed you left feeling that you'd discovered a hidden gem.
Well, they've remodeled. It doesn't seem hidden anymore with its bright entrance on Gould Street. It's well lit inside now, too. And I think they have more space. They certainly make better use of their space now.
While they probably needed to make these improvements---and most people probably appreciate the new layout more---now the restaurant feels like what it is. An extremely popular place with good, affordable food that is almost always packed.
Located just off of Yonge Street on Gould Street (the next street north of Dundas). This place is conveniently close to Ryerson University as well as the big record shops. Which is why the place is always buzzing with a young crowd. But you'll see suits in here at lunch time, and really all sorts of people.
The popularity comes from the food. Which is tasty, good value, and served up quick. You can now sit at a table and be served by waiter/waitress. An improvement I don't like. You can also walk up to the counter and order take out.
The food is authentic Thai, at least as far as I know. I almost always go for the "Green Curry Beef". The curry is "homemade" and all of their curry dishes are incredible. But you won't go wrong here. Excellent soups, good vegetarian.
Where you may go wrong is with the spice. Heed their advice and don't go ask for more than 5 chili. And that's if you like incredibly hot food. 1 chili is about right for the average person. They rate their hotness by Thai standards not North American. Your server will be able to advise you if you're not quite sure.
I like the place for its food. I don't always feel up for the busy atmosphere. It sometimes has a "cool kid" vibe that I'd rather avoid, too. But that's easy enough to ignore. You can get in and out of here fast, too, if that's what you're going for.
If you want a relaxed laid back meal you may want to look elsewhere. Unless you come outside of the main meal times. One of those places that's busier on weekdays than weekends. It's not even open on Sunday.
No longer the hidden gem that I liked to pretend it was. But a great place to get a good, quick meal nonetheless.
For specific information check out their website.