Given this restaurant's cutesy name and cheap menu, one would assume it'd be just another greasy take-out joint with a gimmicky moniker, but it's not. Once Upon a Thai serves surprisingly authentic drunken noodles (aka Drunk Man noodles) and pad thai; the Mussamun chicken (peanut curry with potato and onion) sounds like an odd combination, but it'll melt in your mouth. It is not only one of the best Thai places on this strip of Southport, but could very well be the only one that doesn't do takeout.

The small storefront space is sparsely decorated, but the warm colors and tasty food make up for it. Plus, the service is extremely friendly, even when the place is busy. Most importantly, the food here’s very inexpensive for the neighborhood, with entrees averaging $6.99 (including specials). This Wrigleyville spot is a consistently good pick for when you're in the area for a Cubs game or catching a flick at the Music Box.

Centerstage Reviewer: Jamie Murnane