Hyde Park has lots of places for folks to grab some comfort food, but few have the reputation and history of Thai 55th, which opened in 1982. Over the course of those twenty-five years, Thai 55th has grown from a place to catch some quick takeout to a full-service restaurant featuring a private party room, comfortable seating and catering services.

The dining room at Thai 55th is a mixture of no-nonsense comfort and kitsch. Tables and chairs battle for space with paper lanterns, tourist posters of Thailand, Chinatown tchotchkes, and various photos. It's that lived-in feeling that gives the place its down-home vibe.

The menu here doesn't stray too far from what diners might normally find in any other greasy Thai spoon. You'll find the usual assortment of fried wontons, spring rolls, lemon grass soup and spicy salads. Thai 55th's drunken noodles are a hit with the U of C crowd, with generous amounts of Thai hot sauce, fresh vegetables, rice noodles and a choice of meat. The chicken satay ranks among the best in the city for the price.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Chuck Sudo