Char's is not part of a restaurant row, nor is it in a trendy neighborhood; an element of the Char's experience is the minor effort it takes to get to this small, unassuming strip-mall storefront. Tucson is hardly a Mecca for authentic Thai cuisine, but Char's vast menu—laced with curries and coconut sauces galore—has been satisfying Tucson's Thai-food itch since 1984. Soups, served in large bowls, are meals in and of themselves, while shrimp, beef and pork entrées amiably co-exist with many vegetarian options. Char's now proudly offers brown rice and will attempt to accommodate for food allergies.
Runners up:
2. Bangkok Café
2511 E. Speedway Blvd.
323-6555; bangkokcafe.net
3. Vila Thai Cuisine
972 E. University Blvd.
393-3489; vilathai.com
