"New Orleans has plenty of Thai restaurants, but there’s something magical about Budsi’s in the Marigny. Maybe it’s because there have been so many iterations: it was originally a restaurant in Thailand, then a pop-up, and finally a gorgeous corner brick and mortar. Regardless, it’s one of our top group dinner spots in the city. Sure, going solo for a cocktail and plate of larb is cool and all, but it’s better to go with friends so you can share all the great appetizers, like Thai fried chicken wings, chicken satays, and pork dumplings. Everybody should get their own curry, noodle, stir-fry, or anything from the Issan portion of the menu for an entree. And the seasonal specials are always great. See duck? Order it. See crab? You got this." - Megan Braden-Perry