Hrmm.. well I need to put in my own two cents here. I've never had the curry at Thai Express -- because I am in love with their Pad Thai and will order it everytime - making special care to duck out of work early so I don't get stuck in line. Unlike Thai Island, their Pad Thai is not pre-made and waiting in a warmer, which I find causes the noodles to stick together. The Thai Express Pad Thai is made to order, which means they stir-fry it AFTER you order it and serve it to you fresh! This is also how they serve it in Thailand. You can choose how spicy you like it, and there are limes and peanuts on the side to add to the Pad Thai. As for the taste -- it's not ketchup-y; it's just GOOD. As for the price, yes, it's about $8 but if you look around the food courts nowadays, that is pretty much in line with all other food stalls. At least this tastes good!