In Thailand, soi are small streets that radiate, higgledy-piggeldy from main roads. They are usually more peaceful and less populated than the hubbub of the polluted and noisy mainstream.

While South African cities aren`t built in the same way, Norwood residents would agree that life on the little side streets away from Grant Street make a refreshing change from the bustle of drunken teenagers and aggressive charging of lowered-suspension cars on the main artery.

Nestled in an unassuming nook in one of these small thoroughfares is a new Thai dining phenomenon called Khao Thai. The space itself is tiny, containing about eight four-seater tables, and most of the restaurant`s business is takeaway; but the couch potatoes responsible for this are doing themselves a real disservice.