Given its name, we wouldn’t fault you for assuming Luv2Eat Express was just a takeout version of its famous sibling in the same strip mall. We sort of did. But once you’re inside this small cafeteria-style spot in Hollywood, you’ll quickly realize it’s a different concept altogether: a steam table setup serving Southern Thai curries and stir-fries that the chefs grew up eating in Phuket. The homestyle food here includes many unique, bold, wipe-your-brow dishes that you won’t find at many Thai spots in LA (save for Jitlada, perhaps), let alone what’s served at Luv2Eat Thai Bistro a few doors down. Southern Thai food is known for being some of the spiciest in Thailand, and the dishes here live up to that reputation. So much so that you’ll find signs decorated with flames and the words “caution of spiciness” on every wall. It might seem slightly intimidating for even hardcore heat-seekers, but the kitchen staff is eager to let you sample anything behind the counter. Take them up on it. While there are plenty of items that’ll make your nose run (hello, green curry), there are just as many that are bold in different ways, like the funky fish curry with sour bamboo shoots, soft chunks of pork belly braised in sweet soy, and a soothing pumpkin and egg stir-fry that leans closer to breakfast. As with any steam table operation, some dishes have been sitting out longer than others, and most of them tend to taste best when fresh. But don’t be afraid to ask for clarification as you build your combo plate. Staff are happy to inform you what just landed from the kitchen and what will be replenished momentarily. Still, the best time to arrive is right when they open at 11am, when the big metal trays parade out of the kitchen and a cloud of stream accumulates around the bar like a curry-tinged sauna. Trust us, you’ll be sweating in no time.