Hong Thai

You'll spot the queue before you see the shop front – that's your first clue you've found something special. This tiny Ancoats spot does exactly what it says on the tin: classic Thai dishes served fast, hot, and without fuss. The massaman curry here is velvet-rich and properly spiced, while the pad kra pao arrives with enough holy basil to make your sinuses tingle. The counter-serve setup means no lingering, but frankly you'll be too busy demolishing your pad Thai to care about atmosphere. What Hong Thai lacks in decor, it makes up for in authenticity and value – this is the kind of place that makes you wonder how they're turning a profit at these prices.