Joom Bangkok Cafe, Los Angeles

Tucked away in a tiny strip mall, the plain restaurant front of Joom Bangkok Café doesn’t tell the full story of what’s inside. Their entrance leads to an elegant white interior with baroque chandeliers, muted lighting and a variety of colorfully framed pictures on the wall. The atmosphere is reserved and low-key, which makes conversation possible over the din of the kitchen beyond. Largely a local phenomenon, Joom also makes for a nice destination meal for Thai aficionados looking to escape the usual run of strip mall options, and offers a helpful staff that is knowledgeable about their menu and provides excellent service. Joom offers very reasonable lunch and dinner specials – complete with free ice cream – and anchors their menu with a selection of $2 beers, available all day long.