All the typical Thai mainstays can be found on this expansive menu, yet dishes like a spicy appetizer of roti green curry chicken—creamy, spicy, herbal and utterly addictive thanks in part to the fried pancakes served for dunking—will make diners forget about all other versions of green curry. Panang curry, fried shrimp and grilled marinated shrimp (dubbed “lady dancing” on the menu and served skewered and stuck upright into an orange) will also please. However, to get a true taste of what the kitchen can do, pay special attention to the specials written on a board behind the cash register at this bare-bones spot tucked into the elbow of a Merrifield strip mall. Here, such dishes as banana blossom salad and whole fish transport the tongue. The truly intrepid should ask the chef for a serving of whatever fiery delights are being served for the staff’s family meal that day.
Elephant Jumps
Thai | $$
8110-A Arlington Blvd., Falls Church
