Amazing Nong Khai 어메이징 농카이

Thai staff, a Thai flag on the wall and recognition from the Thai government as an overseas Thai restaurant set the tone in this Seogyo-dong shop near Hongdae. Som tam, green papaya salad, is fresh and clearly spicy, with a fermented fish-sauce funk that divides first-timers. Noodles include pad thai, rad na and rice noodle soup, alongside braised pork trotter over rice, and weekday lunch brings a cheaper set menu. Thai snacks such as fried chicken skin and durian are sold by the entrance, and Thai beer is stocked. Around the year's end, groups of Thai customers gather to share fish dishes. Cilantro costs extra, and four condiments on the table let you adjust the seasoning. Weekends and holidays fill fast, and late in the day some dishes sell out early.