Turmeric Thai Garden

Tucked into a low-slung La Jolla strip, this is a Thai place that trades pretense for honest heat and texture. The curries arrive thick and fragrant, coconut cream clinging to each spoonful, the turmeric fried rice popping with turmeric and lime. Patrons lean into the garden patio at sunset, voices low, plates clinking, a fan stirring warm air and the occasional gull crying from the hills. Service is unusually adaptable; the staff will hustle to accommodate catering pickups or a late addition to a party. Portions run on the modest side, so order two mains to share. Dessert is a small triumph, fried banana with coconut ice cream, hot and slick against cold, the ice cream melting into a sweet halo. Find the narrow walkway to Suite G and follow the string lights into the patio.