It may be funky and green on the outside, but on the inside Siam Lotus Room is sleek, comfortable and completely updated. As one of the first Thai restaurants to open in South Florida, over 30 years ago, it has gone through many changes in ownership and style, with one thing remaining constant: unbeatably superb Thai food at affordable prices.

In 2005 owners Atchana & Steve Capellini added a new lounge feel to the family-friendly atmosphere that has always been a hallmark of the restaurant. Enter onto earth-tone tiles among bamboo shooting from oversized kiln-glazed pots, and the strains of Brazilian jazz might greet you, or perhaps some upbeat modern Thai selections. Servers in black Ts lend an urban feel, and a vibrant 175 gallon salt water aquarium dominates one end of the dining area.

Atchana is a veteran of the Miami restaurant scene, having operated several restaurants of her own, including the popular Thai Silk for nine years. Husband Steve is a writer who works around the country doing consulting and training in the health spa and massage therapy industries. Learn more about that part of their lives at www.royaltreatment.com.

Atchana’s mom, Umpun, oversees the kitchen – and Thai nationals throughout South Florida seek out her special dishes.