I’m all for small, strip-mall Asian restaurants—in fact, that’s where I find some of my favorite meals. But the four-month-old Phat Thai in Cherry Creek is the polar opposite—and it’s worth a visit. Go expecting a modern space with eats that only sometimes adhere to tradition. Chef-owner Mark Fischer encourages tinkering (cue the tableside condiments). The spicy duck, however, needs no fine-tuning. The stir-fry tosses duck with Chinese broccoli, red peppers, and a sweet-hot hoisin-Sriracha sauce for a dish that’s as vibrant as the space. 2900 E. Second Ave., 303-388-7428, phatthai.com/denver

This article was originally published in 5280 April 2012.
Amanda M. Faison
Amanda M. Faison
Freelance writer Amanda M. Faison spent 20 years at 5280 Magazine, 12 of those as Food Editor.