Thai Orchid, Milpitas

If you take one look at a busy street in Thailand, it's immediately clear that the country has a love for sights, smells, and tastes that invigorate the senses—and though it's in Milpitas, Thai Orchid is the same way. Its chefs blend spicy, sweet, savory, and sour flavors together, creating dishes that appeal to all of the tastes. They pair deep-fried fish balls with sweet chili sauce, for instance, and blend lemongrass and ginger into spicy and sour soups. They also mute the heat level in fiery curries with coconut milk and send out slices of sour lime with crab pad thai.

The decor at Thai Orchid reflects Thailand's love of color, specifically purple. Tables are draped in silky deep purple tablecloths, and crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow on various pots of purple, white, and yellow orchids.