RICE VILLAGE. [Closed for renovations; see website for other Houston locations.] Along with highly rated noodles, this Eastern-inspired eatery offers traditional Thai dishes that have been Houston standards since the early '70s. Having outgrown its original location, the restaurant, in its new digs, treats folks to a friendly, professional waitstaff who work hard to make everybody feel like part of the family. House specialties include sautéed shrimp with peanut sauce, stir-fried mussels with chili sauce, and quick-cooked squid in a hot, spicy sauce.

RICE VILLAGE. A "diamond in the rough," this narrow eatery serves delicious Thai fare at some of the most reasonable prices you can imagine. Flavorful, exotic dishes fill the menu, as evidenced by mee krob, steamed pork dumplings, curried eggplant, and coconut-chicken soup. Add to the mix an impressive yet moderately priced wine list, and you've all the makings for a terrific evening without a hefty price tag. During the work week, it's not uncommon to find business folks lining up at the buffet for seconds on spring rolls and shrimp curry.

GALLERIA. This wonderful restaurant doesn't stand on formalities, and it's not frou-frou at all. It does, however, turn out some of the city's best authentic Thai cuisine. Full-bodied but judiciously seasoned, the kitchen's dishes call forth faraway lands, redolent of coconut, cilantro, lime, and chilies. Try a salad chock full of fresh vegetables and chicken, or go for a traditional beef satay or even an earthy Mussaman curry. No matter what you order, you'll be greeted warmly and made to feel at home by lovely, conscientious servers.