Char's is not part of a restaurant row, nor is it in a trendy neighborhood; an element of the Char's experience is the minor effort it takes to get to this small, unassuming strip-mall storefront. Tucson is hardly a Mecca for authentic Thai cuisine, but Char's vast menu—laced with curries and coconut sauces galore—has been satisfying Tucson's Thai-food itch since 1984. Soups, served in large bowls, are meals in and of themselves, while shrimp, beef and pork entrées amiably co-exist with many vegetarian options. Char's now proudly offers brown rice and will attempt to accommodate for food allergies.

Runners up:

2. Bangkok Café

2511 E. Speedway Blvd.

323-6555; bangkokcafe.net

3. Vila Thai Cuisine

972 E. University Blvd.

393-3489; vilathai.com