Don't judge a restaurant by its facade, people! Spice Island Tea House may look like an unassuming hole-in-the-wall on Atwood, but it serves some quality Thai food.
This is a particularly great place to go for lunch. They have a large and diverse menu, but I always seem to order my default: the Vegetarian Curry Trio with rice ($8). It is a delicious mix of eggplant, potato and green beans (the magical trio) and red curry sauce. A sauce can really make or break a curry and Spice Island's definitely makes it! It is savory, mildly spicy and very flavorful. I think my favorite thing about their lunches, though, is that they are the perfect portions! (Nutrition Nerd Alert!) Come in hungry and you will feel wonderfully satisfied, but not over-stuffed, and not obligated to take a pile of food home.
The waiters and waitresses are always really chill and courteous. The ambiance is simple and a tad dark (perfect for a hot summer day!)