Almost worth the suffering
Bangkok Gardens, directly across from the Blue Note is the best Thai food in Columbia. Keep in mind, are no other Thai places at this moment. That aside the food is very good. Rich in flavor, seemingly from fresh and authentic spices. I will deduct some points for not having fresh herb garnish like cilantro and basil.

The main problem is the staff. I tried unsuccessfully two times, to take a friend there. The first time was almost an hour wait. The second time, they blame their range hood being "stopped up" so the place was smoky. If you try to call ahead you will confuse the staff. When they come to their senses they will tell you "it's first come first serve dude". So don't waste your time coming here for lunch, unless you have a forgiving boss. Hey I like unkempt hippies as much as the next guy but the staff their just creeps me out. The rarely speak to you, and if they do you will not be able to hear them. They seem easily flustered and even more easily confused.
In closing, it is good, and by default the best around. The staff is a real point of pain and suffering with a real lackadaisical "dude" attitude. They would seem to rather be playing Quake. Do not go if you are cramped for time. Going at 11am, it took 40 minutes to get our food, and a scary 10 minutes with my credit card when I paid. Go after the dinner rush for good Thai and if you are seated by a pony-tailed lad with a mousy voice, ask him which is his day off and leave.    [21 May 2004 13:49:00]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Phat/Pad Thai (Spice level, according to taste)

     ­Mr. Bits, Chicago, Chi-Town, Windy City   mistabits at hotmail dot com

Amazing
Bangkok Gardens is the best Thai restaurant I have ever been to. My roommates and I eat there at least once a week. I have never ordered anything I did not like, and the service is good. As regulars, they know us by name and often give us free drinks.    [27 Feb 2006 19:32:03]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: paht preel wan

     ­Anonymous   

Great for dinner -- but it gets very busy so plan to wait at the doorway (no chairs, no waiting area). I wouldn't recommend this restaurant for lunch, however, especially if you need something pretty quick for the lunch hour.    [04 Mar 2006 19:03:08]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Coconut Curry Chicken

     ­Anonymous   

Good Every Once And A While
The food here is pretty good, although I'd recommend lunch over dinner. The few times I've eaten here, I was impressed with lunch and not so impressed with dinner. The wait staff is okay, although a little scatter-brained. Ambiance is good, but there aren't enough tables/space for busy weekends.    [18 May 2007 15:58:42]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 

     ­Jenny   

One of the Best
This is a great little place with an original and diverse menu. It has recently moved and is now a trendy, open restaurant...a big change from its old quarters, but the food is every bit as good as always. Definitely one of my favorites.    [04 Jun 2007 16:19:33]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Tiger Claw

     ­JH