Open Late

These roadside restaurant cooks were enjoying a late-night soap opera after the last of the day's customers had gone home. Shops like this are very common in Thailand. I pass by this one and one other across the street each day on my way to the bus stop. Most of them cook about the same dishes for around the same prices. However it seems everyone has his/her favorite. Or sometimes we just choose based on location, available seating, or how soft their rice is. (I have one friend who is quite particular about rice softness. Before her, I didn't really notice if that extra half cup of water was missing when the rice was cooked, but now I'm becoming more attentive.)

Here, cooking is done over a couple gas burners on the right and customers sit on the left. You can also order your food in a styrofoam box to go. Food is made to order as it is ordered, so with a large group, the line can get backed up a bit, but usually it's pretty quick. Amazing how such a wide variety of food can come out of such a simple kitchen. :)