I regularly frequent both this University Ave. location & the westside Sa Bai Thong on Odana- and cannot say which I prefer, which is probably for the best- since either location will serve you delicious food in a comfortable and easy-going environment; I'd hate to steer you towards either direction. Go wherever is convenient and experience the best Thai in Madison (at least in my opinion)... Lao Lang Xaan is a close second, but I appreciate the style of Thai cuisine served here, and that the ambiance is a little less "busy".
Vegans, rejoice- all of their curries are made with coconut milk; traditionalists will find solace knowing this info as well. The sauces I've tried in all of the curry dishes I have ventured to order have been delicious and well-seasoned. Brown or white rice if you're feeling adventurous (as adventurous as you can get by picking a different color for your rice).
I appreciate the consistency of Sa Bai Thong, I've ordered the same dish multiple times at either location and it is always yummy! I can't attest to the "authenticity" of the Thai grub here- being a Madisonian born and raised and never traveling to Thailand... (perhaps the reason why I am not giving it a full 5-stars?)
But, I very much enjoy healthy and delicious food- and this restaurant has never left me disappointed.
Thanks Sa Bai Thong,
Victoria