Bites Nearby: Mmm, Thai Noodle House

Alameda's  proudly proclaims itself “The Best Noodle House in San Francisco”— and for good reason. I haven't seen it show up on any best of lists, but by my standards it's the tastiest Thai food I've eaten in my four years in the Bay Area.

If you're looking for atmosphere, you might be disappointed. That's not to say the place isn't clean, or that waitstaff isn't friendly and helpful. Because they are. But, with cushioned metal-back chairs and bad late night TV (did I mention they're open until 1 a.m.?), this place may be best suited for the Valentine's Day rebels among us.

King of Thai cooks are generous with small but mighty chilis and spices, so if you've caught a cold, head straight here to slurp down the brothy but hearty duck soup or the lemongrass favorite, Tom Yum. Nose extra stuffy? Ask the waiter for a jar of phrik nam pla, which is extremely hot green chilis fermented in fish sauce. You will find that the spoon it's served with is very small – this is not an accident. This stuff is fierce, so measure and taste carefully.

Enjoy carefully, and don't forget to tell us what you thought in the comments. While you're at it, what's your favorite Thai spot around?