Amarin Thai (Hillcrest)

My nickname isn't "Pickled Papaya" for nothing - and this place HAS it! If you're not a garlic wimp, then try out the green papaya salad which is so terrific that I finish up the dressing also (nothing goes to waste). Prices aren't exactly cheap, but if it's any consolation, their food is phuken great. Also, there's a little bonus in that they own the wine bar next door, and during happy hour all the wine is 1/2-price (I shit you not).