Vancouver could be on the path to a new low-rent wave of charm, Thai Charm that is. Located in the old Flite Restaurant space, Charm Modern Thai manages to lure a mix of casual, jean-wearing couples as well as old-school area dwellers, sharing plates of Chicken Satay. Trendy but not uber-hip, Thai Charm is a spot that draws in mostly twenty- and thirty somethings from the burgeoning area.

Emulating a late 60's-era lounge (to a certain degree) Charm Modern Thai combines the subtly of rustic ambiance with some retro-modern aspects. Smooth bamboo sticks and velvet red booths warm the interior up a few shades. With sheer black tables and dark stone-washed walls, the dimmed-lit space provides an semi-intimate dining scene. Traditional Thai portraits- golden warm twin-tones and woodblock, brush prints - hang throughout the space, highlighting asymmetrical designs.

But there is a certain, ahem, charm in the details. Notice the interwoven crossed banisters lining the window seals and vintage brass mirrors, all creating an old school English castle vibe with Asian undertones. Placing your bold red napkin on your lap before dining brings more-than-expected colour to your outfit (even if your shirt is made of microfiber instead of real silk).

So, you've sat and enjoyed the scenery now the test begins - bring on the food. The menu consists of small nibbles to full-on fusion dining. If you’re a fan of protein in epic quantities, then you've found your crib. Try out the Chicken Satay (lemongrass marinated chicken breast served with cucumber and red onion blended in a warm peanut sauce).

Want more zing? Something different than your run-of-the-mill fixing? I suggest the Hoy Malang Phou which has mussels steamed in a swirled spice-infused in a medley of chili, galangal, basil, lemongrass, white wine and lime broth (talk about a lot of tang!).