Almost hidden in a block of small businesses in the shadow of a large supermarket on the south side of Colorado Springs, regulars and newbies alike are attracted to Thai Satay for the fresh, distinct flavors created in its kitchen.

This is a mom and pop operation relying on family members to keep things running, whether for those dining in or those getting carryout orders.

Given the restaurant’s name, of course there’d be satay chicken ($10.99). Four skewers of grilled marinated chicken come with peanut sauce. While this was tempting, we instead opted for the Thai coconut shrimp ($9.99).

Six large pieces of tail-on shrimp with a thick coating of crispy coconut were served with sweet chile sauce. Yes, the latter sounds like a culinary paradox, but it is a blend of both flavors that teased the palate.

The menu consists of typical Thai entrees along with a few Japanese ramen items.

We were told the curries are among the most frequently ordered dishes and from the five available their popularity changes from day to day. Our server, who owns the restaurant with her husband the chef, explained that some days it’s the panang, while others it’s the massaman and sometimes the red peanut. All are $14.99 and come with steamed white rice and have a choice of chicken, vegetable or tofu. I need to also add that they all have a fire symbol indicating hot and spicy.

Diners can choose the level of spice, from zero to five, for most items. For my red peanut curry, I chose not to have additional spice and was pleased with its piquancy. It was fiery, but didn’t scorch my throat or make my eyes water … much.

This was a large bowl of reddish-orange broth crowded with an array of chewy and firm veggies, including broccoli spears, sliced zucchini, red onion, green peppers and a variety of sliced mushrooms. The combination of peanut butter, coconut milk and red curry spices was among the best I’ve sampled.

I surprised myself by finishing nearly every drop simply because it was such an enjoyable mixture of seasonings and textures.

By contrast, the Thai basil chicken ($14.99) was less successful compared with the curry (which was outstanding). This standard Thai dish, noted on the menu as being a staff favorite, didn’t have as much chicken as we would have liked. This had a lot to do with the fact that we appreciated the thick savory sauce that coated the meat and the many vegetables accompanying it.

We dialed down the spice level but could easily have gone to something midrange. Nonetheless, the crunchy carrot slices, celery pieces and pungent (in a good way) basil with the chicken was a satisfying meal.

I overheard the couple at a table near us order drunken noodles “as hot as you can make it.” The server was a little incredulous and repeated his request. After he was served, she checked in to see if it was spicy enough. He said it was, and he loved every bite. His companion seemed to be drinking a lot of water.

Besides the food, we appreciated the prompt, friendly service.

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Thai Satay

Asian cuisine

Location: 821 Cheyenne Meadows Road

Contact: 719-540-8288; thaisataycs.com

Prices: $6.99 to $16.99

Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Details: Credit cards accepted. Wi-Fi.

Favorite dishes: Red peanut curry; Thai coconut shrimp.

Other: Gluten-free and vegan options available.