Saying that Thai Singha House is at the same level as its local Thai cuisine peers isn't a dig; considering the quality of Thai cuisine around campus, it's a good find like any of the others.
The establishment gets high marks for service - fast, personable, and easy on large groups and small couples alike.
It may have a slight tendency to get crowded, but at least the crowd is diverse and the atmosphere never seems to get too suffocating.
But Thai Singha House's claim to fame is the staple of Thai food, its pad thai and noodle-based dishes.
The version that I ordered was short on the vegetables but long on the taste - a fine recipe for carb-happy college students. I've also gotten positive feedback on their shrimp and seafood-bashed dishes, which are so volumnious they have their own pricier section on the menu.
The chef's special's are more eclectic and range from a series of curry dishes to a wild boar chop, and another specialty section features a roasted whole game hen and duckling glazed with honey curry sauce.
As far as the best time to go, catching the early-bird offers at lunch and dinner is definitely worth the extra effort, especially the brunch spreads - they're a hangover special, even though the spicy ones might be a bit hard on the stomach.
The 11 a.m.-3 p.m. specialties all provide drink, soup and entree for a lunch-like price, under 10 dollars if you're smart about things and don't go too overboard with appetizers (It can be a difficult feat.).
For the 21-and-over crowd there's wonderful home-brewed beer, described by sources older than yours truly as hoppy and with a kick. I'll take their word for it.
For those who want still further accessories to a nice meal, try the handful of ice cream dessert dishes.
There's something to be said for those items that aren't fit for consumption, too. Soothing music - authentic Thai, say those in the know - and Middle-eastern decor add to the establishment's visceral appeal.
Thai Singha House is no great find; it's another Philly thai restaurant that deserves going to. Given the quality of its peers, that's a fine compliment.
And no disrespect to Pattaya, which it is often compared to, but it might even be a bit better.
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