Leela Thai Restaurant, Los Angeles

First, decide between indoor seating with sounds from the kitchen livening up the experience, or outdoor seating, which means a quieter table surrounded by lush plants. Then pick from an assortment of options, from noodles to curries to seafood. The noodle dishes here are simple and traditional but excellent, especially the fresh, peanuty Pad Thai. Also, anything with fish or shellfish comes highly recommended, since diners claim that seafood is Leela Thai's true specialty. For really hungry patrons, an appetizer might be in ordertry an order of fresh spring rollsfollowed by one of the tangy barbecue combo plates. Grab the lunch special; it includes a salad, rice, and an entree. Vegetarians are definitely welcome!