Pro/Con/Pro: Banana Leaf

Looking for a spot for your next BYO? Many would suggest Banana Leaf, a Penn staple. But how do you know if it's really any good? Few people have a clear, accurate memory of their time at Banana Leaf. Reading Yelp reviews gets you nowhere: apparently people go there for first dates, and are interested in the food. Fear not-- we've compiled a list of pros and cons tailored to the needs of the Penn student, which should help with your decision.

Ambiance:

• + There's lots of wood, the room feels solid and well-built.
• - All the patrons drunk and loud.
• + You're drunk and loud, too. 

Food:

• + Malaysian food is exciting and unusual for many people.
• - Everyone orders Pad Thai, which isn't even Malaysian food.
• + Let's be real, no one is there for the food.

Service:

• + They don't kick you out for any reason, apparently. All crime is legal.
• - The waiter won't split a check 32 ways, which sucks because it's hard to think of a clever description for Venmo on short notice.
• + You get fun, colorful plastic cups for alcohol because they know you're a mess.

BYO Experience:

• + It's acceptable to be drunk by 7:30 p.m. on a Thursday in the middle of Center City.
• - One person always shows up with Crisp White Franzia.
• + It feels familiar and homey, because you'll recognize at least half of the patrons. 

At the end of the day, most BYO spots are the same. Go to Banana Leaf if you want, have your fun. All that really matters is what booze you bring -- please don't bring Crisp White.