South of Kawaramachi-Gojo is not normally where you would expect to go for dinner, but Ban Thai was a pleasant surprise. Perfect for lunch, sets go for 850 yen. The pho noodles pictured below was pretty authentic, even with real BBQ pork (yes). The menu is extensive, and I'll definitely be back for the soft shell crab dishes. Soft shell crab in Kyoto! Imagine that. The restaurant is spacious and has a distinctive Bangkok feel. All the staff are Thai as well. While Thai restaurants in Kyoto have tended to be a bit formal with proper cutlery, a boom in casual "food stall" type restaurants is taking place. Asian food as it should be - good and cheap!
