Here, as at many Thai places, knowing the special dishes that they do well will get you a better overall experience. Though many places in the Metroplex have khao soi on the menu, none have the same fresh and bold flavors of Andaman. This dish comprises egg noodles and chicken stewed in a balanced curry, then topped with crisped egg noodles. You have to special order it ahead here, as it is not on the menu, but it is worth the effort every time.

Some Thai is heavy on curry, noodle, and rice dishes, so for a change order the nam prik ong (Northern Thai dip) with ground meat (chicken is best) that is combined with tomatoes, garlic, shallots, dried chilies, fish sauce, lime juice, a touch of sugar, and topped with cilantro. “Volcano Catfish” is a fusion dish that just works. A grilled teriyaki-glazed catfish is placed over fried rice and topped with a green curry sauce and served with bell peppers, basil, and carrots. Southern-style gang som is for you if you are not a fan of curries with coconut milk. A lightly tart and funky broth (from lime juice and fish sauce) is paired with galangal (from the ginger family) and turmeric to produce more of a soup than the typical curry.