Som Dee Thai Kitchen

When Orrapan Botthaisong moved to Denver from Thailand a decade ago, she had just $300 to her name. Ten years later, she’s the owner of two Thai restaurants: the more casual La Mai Thai near Sloan’s Lake, which is named for her mother, and Som Dee, which opened in December and is named for her father. Much of the decor in this upscale spot came from Thailand — as did some of the staff, including Botthaisong’s brother, who moved to Colorado to help her run the business. While the familiar dishes on the menu are cooked with care, you’ll be well rewarded by trying something new to you, like the spicy Heatwave Shrimp or the signature Som Dee ribeye steak with a toasted sticky rice crust and a side of tangy jaew dipping sauce.