Pad Thai
Vientiane Palace, 151 W. Gorham St.
The scoop: Delete Asian Kitchen from your speed dial. From now on, make the walk to V.P. (as regulars call it). The freshest, most flavorful pad thai is catered to you, with choice of meat as well as up to ""four stars of spicy.""
Health Implications: No deep-fried reliance here. The flavor comes from fresh vegetables, authentic soy, and irresistibly-sizzling Thai peppers.
Value: I have profound respect for anyone who can finish an entire entree ($8.50), and you've got to love the bottomless bowls of steaming white rice.
Doritos Spicy Sweet Chili
Do not drunken-munchie this new flavor! Only a sober tongue can appreciate the unraveling tastes of these chips. The subtly sweet flavor is punctuated by a livening tang, and just the right amount of spice will leave you burning for more.
