POETS Thai (West Bank Dream Center)

POETS Thai is a casual, hugely popular Thai restaurant in the West Bund Dream Center in Xuhui, a short walk from the riverside. The menu runs through the classics with a properly punchy hand: expect real heat and real sourness rather than toned-down versions. At around 169 RMB a head, it is one of the better-value Thai meals in this corner of Xuhui. No reservations, so a queue builds at peak hours; go early or put your name down and wander the West Bund while you wait.