"With exposed brick walls and a large wooden bar, Gaoku looks like a typical local watering hole. But unlike the usual temples of Old Style and Malört, this bar has fantastic Japanese-Thai dishes and drinks. The menu is full of hits like fragrant tom kha-inspired scallops with coconut dashi, spicy khao soi ramen, and buttery grilled tiger prawns with a creamy motoyaki sauce. Throw in some refreshing cocktails like a shiso-tinged margarita or fruity wakamomo splash, plus a summer patio, and you have a great spot for a weekend lunch, dinner, or drinks before a show at the California Clipper across the street. " - josh barnett, john ringor