In the mood for something hot and spicy? Or perhaps for something sweet and sour?

I've checked out the various Thai food places around town to give you some hints on where to go, what to get and just how delicious pad thai can really be.

With the college life and student budget in mind, my research narrowed the choices to two restaurants, Lemongrass and Pad Thai. Both are located in close proximity to campus, have reasonable prices and the food is beyond excellent.

Yes, it does cost you a little bit more than the Wood Center or eating at the commons. But if you want to enjoy the better things in life, then you had better pay up. And believe me, it's worth it.

Pad Thai is located next to the UAF Distance Education Center just down College Road. You may either choose to dine in the restaurant or order takeout. The location makes it accessible even for college kids who don't have the privilege of owning a car, since it is within walking distance from the campus area.

And for those lovely 40below winter days? No problem. You don't even have to leave your house because Pad Thai delivers. Just pick up the phone and you're 40 minutes away from a little treat from heaven. Asian food heaven, that is.

I would recommend you try the chicken cashew or the pad thai, both known to cause a repeating of "This is sooooo good" while eating.

A good meal with spring rolls as entrées and chicken cashew as the main course will cost you about $12, but the portions are big and you'll likely end up with leftovers enough for another meal.

You will need a vehicle to get to Lemongrass, since it's located a bit further away from campus on Old Chena Pump Road. They don't deliver, unfortunately. However, once you make it over there you'll find that the food is worth it.

With a little bit higher price range than Pad Thai, the restaurant has slightly higher class food and setting. Here you can order anything from appetizer salad to BBQ chicken and it'll still taste divine.

I would also recommend that you try the Pad Kee Mao "drunken noodle" or the Pla Rad Pick – fried halibut topped with red chili sauce. A dinner here will cost $12 to $15, but it's money well spent. You won't regret it.