Spice is nice -- so why do so many spots in Denver turn down the heat?

I don't know about you, but I'm a little surprised by the assumption that Americans can't take the heat. In this week's review of Mali Thai Cuisine, general manager Alex Tongbua didn't come right out and say it, but he did soft-shoe around the point by noting that "American people,...

By Gretchen Kurtz

July 19, 2013

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I don't know about you, but I'm a little surprised by the assumption that Americans can't take the heat. In this week's review of Mali Thai Cuisine, general manager Alex Tongbua didn't come right out and say it, but he did soft-shoe around the point by noting that "American people, some never eat Thai food," which is why "we tend to give things mild."

Is Tongbua right in his assumption, or have we eaten enough jalapeno-spiked salsa and spicy green chile in this town to convince him otherwise?

When you eat Thai food, do you want it mild or are you willing to bump up the heat to medium or hot? In the comments section below, let us know what you think -- and where to get the truly hot stuff in town.

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Gretchen Kurtz has worked as a writer for 25 years; during that time she's stomped grapes in Napa, eaten b'stilla in Fez, and baked with Buddy Valastro, aka the Cake Boss. Her work has appeared in publications including Boulevard (Paris), Diversion, the New York Times and Westword. Our restaurant critic since 2012, she loves helping you decide where to eat and drink tonight.

Contact: Gretchen Kurtz

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