Jitlada

You’ll find Jitlada in a well-worn strip mall, but its loyal following is a testament to the lingering reputation of this long-standing Southern Thai institution. The setting even has a touch of Hollywood; next to their framed awards and reviews, find illustrations by the Simpsons creator (and Jitlada super-fan)—Matt Groening. The menu, split between Thai standards and a selection of southern specialties, is nothing shy of gargantuan, but certain dishes jump off the page. A zingy salad of crispy catfish and green papaya is a favorite, and don’t miss unique offerings like the bubbling-hot Taepo chicken curry with and tender morning glory stems, rich with coconut milk and aromatic warm spices, or the enticing array of “Spicy Thai Dipped Dishes.”