Joy's Noodles & Rice

Joy's is an old standby for casual Boys Town diners; it's convenient, it's B.Y.O.B., and best of all, it's good price. The room is comfortable and bright, with French doors up front that make window seats perfect perches for people-watching in warm weather. Service is fast and friendly.

It's good, simple Asian fare, with items divided into noodles, curry and rice dishes. Baby egg rolls (and they're not joking about the size) are good and sharp-flavored. Tom yum (hot and sour) soup is practically a meal in itself, brimming with mushrooms and tomatoes -- perfect for nursing a hangover or warming up on a cold day. Pad Thai is a worthy version; lard na (fried wide rice noodles topped with chicken and broccoli in gravy) is very flavorful, but only mildly spicy.

Casual, neighborhood BYOB spot serving Thai classics in a brick-lined room & on the patio out back.