Thai Intra

It has an authentic Thai decor and the waitresses are in traditional Thai dress. It's a smallish establishment, and popular, so booking ahead is recommended, unless you show up soon after they open at 5:30pm. The menu is extensive, covering a full range of traditionally styled Thai dishes, with many vegetarian options. The full list of curries, stir-fries, and other dishes are mostly customisable with your choice of meats or vegetables.

Having been here many times, I can heartily recommend nearly everything on the menu. The appetisers are all good, covering the range you would expect, including curry puffs, fish cakes, and spring rolls. A mixed entree is a good choice if you can't make up your mind. Particularly good mains are the old standard red and green curries, as well as the crispy fried fish which is served in a delicious chili-onion jam. Jasmine rice is served from an ornate metal pot and constantly topped up by the friendly waitresses whenever you run out. The food is a delight to the eye and the tongue, and the servings fairly generous.

For drinks you can BYO alcohol, or order some of the delicious tropical juices. The green coconut juice is wonderful. And all of this at reasonable prices. It's a winner all round.

Thai restaurants have proliferated across Sydney, with several now in Crows Nest, but Thai Intra remains a firm favourite, and deservedly so.