Photo by Robert Cohen (Post-Dispatch)
Fork & Stix
While devoted Fork & Stix fans await the Thai restaurant’s downtown spinoff — first announced early last year but since delayed — we can take comfort knowing the original hasn’t lost a step. Fork & Stix built its reputation on dishes from the north of Thailand: herbacious sai oua (pork sausage), the savory-sweet hung lay curry and, above all else, the curry noodle soup khao soi. First-time diners should begin there, though if you must venture into familiar terrain, Fork & Stix does well by classic red and green curries and pad thai. Whatever you try, once hooked, you too won’t be able to wait much longer for whatever Fork & Stix has planned next.
Hours: Lunch and dinner Tuesday-Sunday (closed Monday)
Last year's ranking: Rest of the Best
Opened: 2012
Must order: Khao soi (with chicken, $10.95)