After a fire destroyed the previous location, Manee Thai left its Avondale digs for more southern pastures. Now located at the former Thai Castle, the owners have instituted a nicely spruced up interior appearance and more importantly, a step up in food quality. Classic favorites like crab rangoon are as affordable as $4.50 and outshine any similar competition. Oddly named treats like the seven buddies (which are crispy coconut, peanuts, dried shrimp, ginger, shallot, lime and hot peppers in a wrap) for $6.50 or the Popeye's crying (veggie pot stickers stuffed with spinach in sesame sauce) for $5.50 add a little bit of quirkiness to the menu.

A good selection of entrees for all meats, seafood and curries can be had, with most meat dishes in the $7-9 range and seafood entrees ranging from $10-13 or market price. Traditional favorites like pad thai and lard nar can be found alongside specials like the seafood diamond, with medley of seafood served over bok choy, wrapped in steamed cabbage and topped with a spicy coconut sauce.

If you've saved room for dessert, Manee offers its own homemade ice cream, sweet sticky rice with custard, or the divine cocobanana and pearls (banana slices and tapioca pearls in rich coconut milk) for only $3.50. Iced teas in a multitude of flavors are available for $3. Lunchers are also in luck, as those close enough for a carry-out or delivery meal can choose an appetizer and entree from the limited lunch box menu for a steal at $6.50.

Centerstage Reviewer: Dan Morgridge