You’re in for a treat if you’re a fan of Thai cuisine. The city of Los Angeles is home to the only officially designated Thai Town in the United States, making it a paradise for those seeking authentic Thai food.
Greater L.A. boasts a diverse range of eateries serving some of the best Thai cuisine around, from seafood to curries and sinus-clearing stir-fries. Whether you’re craving boat noodles, papaya salad, or mango sticky rice, you’ll find the most authentic versions throughout the city.
As you explore the world of Thai food in Los Angeles, you’ll discover award-winning establishments and hidden gems beloved by locals. The city’s Thai Town is a cultural hub that showcases the rich flavors and diversity of Thai cooking.
The Thai Food Scene in Los Angeles
With the largest Thai population outside of Thailand, Los Angeles has become a Thai food paradise. You’ll discover a wide array of authentic Thai dishes that are hard to find elsewhere in the country.
Why LA Has the Best Thai Food in America
Los Angeles has earned its reputation for having the most authentic Thai food scene in America, supported by its significant Thai population. The city’s unique culinary landscape allows you to experience regional Thai specialties that are difficult to find elsewhere. Some of the highlights include:
- Rare dried cotton flower noodle soup
- Pandan-scented ice cream
- Platters of fried fish
- Endless plates of pad Thai
Thai Town: The Only Designated Thai Enclave in the US
Thai Town, officially designated in 1999, serves as the cultural epicenter of Thai cuisine in Los Angeles. It spans six blocks along Hollywood Boulevard, offering a concentrated dose of Thai culture, including grocery stores, temples, and cultural centers. This vibrant community was established by immigration patterns in the 1960s and 1970s and continues to preserve authentic Thai culinary traditions.
The presence of Thai Town creates an ecosystem that supports truly authentic Thai restaurants, not just within Thai Town but throughout Los Angeles County. You can find exceptional Thai establishments from the Valley to Long Beach, making Los Angeles the best place to eat Thai food in the country.
Legendary Thai Establishments in Los Angeles
When it comes to legendary Thai establishments, Los Angeles boasts a couple of iconic eateries that food enthusiasts adore. These restaurants have become synonymous with exceptional Thai cuisine, drawing visitors from across the city.
Jitlada: Southern Thai Cuisine at Its Finest
Jitlada, located in Thai Town, is a strip mall gem that has garnered a cult following. Chef Jazz Singsanong’s restaurant is celebrated for its fiery Southern Thai specialties, which have attracted celebrities and food critics alike. You’ll discover why Jitlada has become a legendary institution, with its extensive menu featuring dishes like the crispy morning glory salad and crying tiger pork.
Sapp Coffee Shop: More Than Just Coffee
Sapp Coffee Shop, another Thai Town staple, is revered for its authentic Thai boat noodles. This tiny coffee shop serves some of the best Thai boat noodles in L.A., with a rich, complex broth featuring tender pork offal. The jade noodles, topped with barbecue pork, roast duck, and crab meat, are a sought-after dish. You’ll learn why Sapp Coffee Shop is a destination-worthy spot, despite its humble name.
Both Jitlada and Sapp Coffee Shop have maintained their quality and authenticity over the years, contributing to Los Angeles’ reputation for exceptional Thai cuisine. When you visit these legendary establishments, you’ll understand why they’re considered must-visit restaurants in the city.
Award-Winning Thai Restaurants
Anajak Thai and Holy Basil are two shining stars in Los Angeles’ Thai food landscape, celebrated for their commitment to authentic flavors and creative twists. You’ll discover how these restaurants have evolved to become culinary destinations in their own right.
Anajak Thai: James Beard Award Excellence
Anajak Thai, a four-decade-old family restaurant, has blossomed into a James Beard Award-winning culinary gem under the guidance of second-generation owner Justin Pichetrungsi. During the pandemic, this Valley staple transformed into a dining sensation with creative plays on Thai classics and events like Thai Taco Tuesday and omakase dinners.
Must-order dishes include the hamachi crudo, Southern-Thai fried chicken, and grilled black sea bream with nam jim sauce. These innovative offerings have cemented Anajak Thai’s status as one of the best restaurants in Los Angeles.
Holy Basil: Downtown’s Thai Food Sensation
Holy Basil has quickly risen to prominence in Los Angeles’ Thai food scene, first as a Downtown food court sensation and now with an expanded location in Atwater Village. Chef Deau Arpapornnopparat’s personal approach to Thai cuisine incorporates family recipes with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Signature dishes include Instagram-worthy beef tataki sprinkled with toasted rice powder and a puckery chile sauce, a nostalgic ode to the chef’s grandma in the form of fried barramundi and lime-kissed rice, and wild shrimp curry loaded with fluffy egg curds. You’ll enjoy these dishes in a welcoming setting, making Holy Basil a top choice at the table for Thai cuisine in Los Angeles.
Both Anajak Thai and Holy Basil represent the evolution of Thai cuisine in Los Angeles, balancing respect for tradition with creative innovation that appeals to contemporary diners. You’ll appreciate their commitment to authenticity and excellence, making them standout choices among the city’s restaurants.
Northern Thai Specialties in Los Angeles
As you explore the diverse culinary landscape of Los Angeles, you’ll discover the unique flavors of Northern Thai cuisine. This regional cuisine is distinct from the more commonly known Central Thai food, offering a refreshing change for those looking to try something new.
Northern Thai Food Club: Authentic Chiang Rai Flavors
Northern Thai Food Club, led by chef-owner “Nancy” Amphai Dunne, is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Chiang Rai culinary experiences in Los Angeles. The restaurant’s khao soi is widely regarded as the gold standard in the city, featuring a perfect balance of coconut richness, curry depth, and pickled mustard greens.
The menu also includes other Northern Thai specialties like sai oua (herb-packed pork sausage) and nam prik noom (roasted green chile dip), showcasing the region’s unique flavor profile, which emphasizes pork and fresh herbs.
Chiang Rai: Long Beach’s Northern Thai Gem
For those in Long Beach, Chiang Rai restaurant is a hidden gem offering rare Northern Thai specialties. One of the standout dishes is kanom jeen nam ngiao (red cotton flower noodle soup), a brothy curry dish filled with tomatoes, cubes of pig blood, and dried red cotton flowers, which is difficult to find even in Thai Town.
The Chiang Rai province in Northern Thailand is known for its curry noodle soups and herbaceous sausage, and this restaurant brings those authentic flavors to Long Beach. Be sure to try their khao soi, which is just as delicious as the one found in Los Angeles.
Southern Thai Cuisine Destinations
Experience the spicy and sour flavors of Southern Thai cuisine at these LA eateries. Southern Thai cuisine is known for its bold and aromatic flavors, often featuring seafood and coconut as key ingredients. You’ll discover a world of intense flavors that showcase the region’s distinctive culinary approach.
Luv2Eat Thai Bistro: Phuket-Style Specialties
Luv2Eat Thai Bistro in East Hollywood is a must-visit for Southern Thai cuisine. Run by two Thai American immigrant women, this no-frills restaurant serves up classics and dishes made from the recipes of a nonagenarian Thai grandmother. The Phuket-style crab curry, known as Kanomjean, is a standout dish featuring whole crab claws in a thick, aromatic sauce. This dish exemplifies Southern Thailand’s bold use of spices and herbs, and it’s a great representation of the Southern Thai culinary style.
Spicy Sugar: Isaan-Style Heat in Mid-City
Spicy Sugar in Mid-City is a hidden gem for those who love spicy and sour flavors. Located in a former diner, this restaurant offers a fiery Isaan-style menu that’s worth going out of your way for. First-timers should order the miang pla pao, a whole grilled or fried tilapia served with rice noodles, lettuce, fresh herbs, and two dipping sauces. You can also try their somtum tad, a papaya salad platter that combines crispy pork belly, boiled eggs, and rice noodles with the classic spicy-sour salad, showcasing the bold flavors of Isaan cuisine.
Both Luv2Eat Thai Bistro and Spicy Sugar offer authentic dishes that don’t compromise on traditional flavor profiles, providing a genuine taste of Thailand’s diverse regional cooking styles. You can enjoy the intense, seafood-forward flavors of Southern Thai cuisine at Luv2Eat, while Spicy Sugar brings the fiery, funky flavors of Isaan cuisine to the table.
Los Angeles, California: Acclaimed Thai Restaurants for Noodle Lovers
LA’s Thai food scene is particularly vibrant when it comes to noodle dishes, with several top-rated eateries worth exploring. You’ll discover a variety of noodle soup options that showcase the depth of Thai cuisine.
Mae Malai Thai House of Noodles: Boat Noodle Heaven
Mae Malai Thai House of Noodles has become a sensation among noodle enthusiasts. Owner Malai Data’s journey from a weekend pop-up to a permanent restaurant on Hollywood Boulevard is a testament to the passion driving LA’s Thai food scene. You’ll enjoy the complex broth enriched with pork blood and aromatic spices in their boat noodle soup.
Their traditional small bowls of boat noodles stay true to their street food origins, while larger portions of tom yum noodle soup offer a different flavor profile. You’ll discover why Mae Malai has developed a cult following for its authentic boat noodles.
Pa Ord Noodle: Authentic Thai Noodle Varieties
Pa Ord Noodle offers a comprehensive tour of Thai noodle varieties, from boat noodles to yen ta fo (pink seafood noodle soup) and dry noodle preparations. You’ll learn how different Thai noodle soups vary in their broth composition, noodle types, and accompaniments, reflecting the diversity of Thailand’s culinary traditions.
These specialized noodle shops demonstrate how Thai cuisine extends far beyond the familiar pad thai, with complex broths and noodle preparations that showcase the depth of Thailand’s food culture. You’ll appreciate the rich flavors and variety that Pa Ord Noodle brings to the table.
In conclusion, Los Angeles is a haven for noodle lovers, with Mae Malai Thai House of Noodles and Pa Ord Noodle standing out as must-visit destinations for authentic Thai noodle experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for boat noodles or other varieties, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Thai Breakfast and All-Day Dining Options
Experience the rich flavors of Thai breakfast in Los Angeles, where old and new blend together. You’ll discover that Thai breakfast differs significantly from Western morning meals, featuring savory rice porridge (jok), Chinese doughnuts (pa tong go), and silky tofu pudding.
These traditional breakfast items are difficult to find outside Thailand, making eateries like Siam Sunset cultural treasures for Angelenos seeking authentic morning dishes.
Siam Sunset: Traditional Thai Breakfast Delights
For tasty Chinese doughnuts served with a side of condensed milk, gingery, ultra-silky tofu pudding, and comforting bowls of Thai-style rice porridge, Siam Sunset is a must-visit. Arrive before noon to enjoy a cozy Thai breakfast feast at one of the dusty pink resin-topped tables.
You’ll learn about the authentic Thai breakfast experience, which includes dishes like khao kai jiew (Thai ground chicken omelet) served over rice, a perfect introduction to Thai breakfast flavors for newcomers.
Otus Thai Kitchen & Coffee: Modern Thai Breakfast
On the far end of West Hollywood, June Intrachat’s modern Thai restaurant, Otus Thai Kitchen & Coffee, serves one of the only Thai breakfast offerings in town. Highlights include the “It’s a Joke,” Intrachat’s signature rice porridge, and a simple evening menu of traditional dishes and creative riffs.
At Otus Thai Kitchen & Coffee, you’ll experience a contemporary approach to Thai breakfast, where traditional flavors meet modern presentation, making it a great spot for those looking for a unique dining experience.
Thai Dessert Specialists in Los Angeles
The city of Los Angeles is home to a vibrant Thai dessert scene, with unique shops that are worth exploring. You’ll discover a variety of traditional and modern Thai desserts that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Bhan Kanom Thai: Sweet Treats and Snacks
Bhan Kanom Thai, located in East Hollywood, is a bodega-like paradise for those seeking traditional Thai sweets and snacks. You’ll find an array of Thai-flavored treats, including Lays with unique flavors like betel leaf miang kam, sweet mango sticky rice, and sour green mango with anchovy dip. The shop also offers freshly prepared Thai-style crispy crepes and a refrigerated section with coconut cakes, Thai tea custards, and black sticky rice pudding with cubed taro.
Kanomwaan: Thai Gelato and Dessert Innovations
Kanomwaan, situated in Thai Town, brings a modern twist to traditional Thai desserts. This trendy dessert cafe offers fluffy shaved ice topped with salty egg cream, buttery brick toast ladled with pandan custard, and a selection of Thai-inspired gelato. You’ll find well-loved Thai classics like durian sticky rice and butterfly pea flower, alongside innovative creations.
Both Bhan Kanom Thai and Kanomwaan showcase the diversity and richness of Thai desserts, offering a cultural connection to Thailand through their sweets. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional recipes or modern interpretations, these dessert specialists have something for everyone.
Hidden Gem Thai Restaurants
Tucked away in various neighborhoods, LA’s hidden gem Thai restaurants are a treasure trove of flavors. You’ll discover longstanding establishments that locals have treasured for decades but remain under the radar for many visitors to Los Angeles.
Sri Siam Cafe: Valley’s Thai Treasure
Sri Siam Cafe, nestled in a North Hollywood strip mall, has been a culinary gem for nearly four decades. This unassuming restaurant has been influencing LA’s Thai food scene with its cross-regional menu, featuring standout dishes like the crispy rice salad with sour pork. The fragrant khao soi is another highlight, showcasing the restaurant’s ability to serve authentic Thai flavors that rival some of the best in the Valley.
The experience at Sri Siam Cafe is characterized by its commitment to flavor and authenticity, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the depths of Thai cuisine in LA.
Ruen Pair: Late-Night Thai Food Haven
Ruen Pair has been a stalwart in Thai Town for over a quarter century, serving as a delightful late-night hangout. The kitchen’s inspiration from the central and northeast regions of Thailand is evident in dishes like the papaya salad with raw crab and shrimp dressed in spicy Thai seafood sauce. Pair these with a frosty beer for the ultimate dining experience.
At Ruen Pair, you’ll experience one of Thai Town’s most beloved late-night dining spots, with authentic Central and Northeastern Thai specialties served until 11 pm. The fried egg with salted turnip is a standout, pairing perfectly with a cold beer.
Specialty Thai Dining Experiences
Specialty Thai dining experiences in Los Angeles are a culinary adventure worth exploring. You’re in for a treat when you visit restaurants that offer unique and innovative takes on traditional Thai cuisine.
Night + Market: Thai Food with Natural Wine
Night + Market has revolutionized Los Angeles’ Thai dining scene by pairing bold, salt-forward flavors with natural wines in a vibrant atmosphere. Chef Kris Yenbamroong’s approach combines traditional Thai street food with contemporary restaurant culture, creating a distinctive dining experience. You can enjoy dishes like sticky rice with hor ab (a catfish tamale), “hey-ha” party wings, and isaan sour sausage.
Heng Heng Chicken Rice: Thai-Style Hainanese Chicken
At Heng Heng Chicken Rice, you’ll experience the Thai interpretation of Hainanese chicken rice, a dish that showcases the cultural connections between Thailand and neighboring countries. The titular dish comes with the choice of fried or steamed chicken atop garlicky rice, with options to add liver and gizzards. It’s served with a comforting chicken broth and a fragrant ginger sauce, making for a satisfying meal.
These specialty establishments highlight how Thai cuisine in Los Angeles continues to evolve, whether through innovative restaurant concepts or focused single-dish expertise. You’ll discover unique perspectives on Thailand’s diverse culinary traditions at these restaurants.
Regional Thai Cuisine Beyond Thai Town
Thai cuisine in LA is a rich tapestry, woven with threads from various regions, each offering a unique dining experience. As you venture beyond Thai Town, you’ll discover exceptional Thai restaurants in neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles County.
Ayara Thai: Westchester’s Family-Run Favorite
Ayara Thai Cuisine is a family-run business that has been an integral part of the Westchester community for nearly 20 years. The Asapahu family serves a solid menu featuring dishes like back baby ribs with spicy sauce, ground pork and shrimp toast, and poached salmon in red curry coconut sauce.
Isaan Station: Northeastern Thai Flavors in Koreatown
For a taste of Thailand’s northeastern region, head to Isaan Station in Koreatown. This colorful restaurant is tucked into a bustling strip mall and offers a variety of Isaan classics, including fermented sausage, papaya salad with pickled crab, and succulent pork neck.
These restaurants demonstrate how Thai cuisine in Los Angeles has expanded geographically while maintaining authenticity. You’ll experience the distinctive flavors of different regions, from the bold, spicy dishes of Isaan to the rich curries of other areas.
By exploring these regional Thai cuisine destinations, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity within Thai cuisine and the unique characteristics of each region’s cooking styles.
Thai Restaurants for Special Dietary Needs
You don’t have to compromise on taste or authenticity when looking for Thai food that meets your dietary needs in LA. Los Angeles offers a variety of Thai restaurants that cater to special dietary requirements, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the rich flavors and aromas of Thai cuisine.
Satdha Plant-Based Thai Kitchen: Vegan Thai Excellence
Satdha Plant-Based Thai Kitchen in Santa Monica is a gem for vegan food lovers. This casual strip mall restaurant serves some of the most flavorful Thai cuisine on the Westside, all of it plant-based. You’ll find takeout staples like massaman curry and green papaya salad, as well as more creative dishes like beet-dyed noodles and cashew-“tuna” endive cups.
Talesai: Refined Central Thai Cuisine
Talesai in Studio City offers a refined take on Central Thai cuisine, catering to those seeking less spicy but equally authentic flavors. This longtime Valley restaurant is known for its Hidden Treasures, a blend of shrimp and blue crab in chili coconut sauce served in escargot-like trays. Talesai’s approach to traditional Thai recipes is both subtle and sophisticated.
Both Satdha and Talesai demonstrate the versatility of Thai cooking techniques and ingredients, proving that authentic Thai flavors can be achieved while respecting dietary restrictions. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a less spicy option, these restaurants offer welcoming environments and delicious meals that showcase the best of Thai cuisine in Los Angeles.
Conclusion: Exploring LA’s Thai Food Paradise
As you conclude your culinary journey through Los Angeles, it’s clear that the city’s Thai food landscape is as diverse as it is vibrant. Los Angeles is home to the only Thai Town in the United States, making it the best place to experience authentic Thai cuisine in the country.
You’ll find that the city’s Thai food scene offers an unparalleled diversity of regional specialties and dining experiences. From the fiery Southern Thai curries at Jitlada to the refined Northern specialties at Northern Thai Food Club, every region of Thailand is represented across Los Angeles County.
The city’s Thai food scene continues to evolve, with traditional establishments maintaining authentic recipes alongside innovative chefs who are pushing boundaries while respecting Thai culinary traditions. Thai Town serves as the cultural heart of this culinary landscape, but exceptional Thai restaurants can be found throughout Los Angeles, from the Valley to Long Beach.
Whether you’re seeking familiar comfort foods like pad thai and mango sticky rice or adventurous specialties like boat noodles and fermented sausage, Los Angeles offers the most comprehensive Thai dining experience outside Thailand itself. By exploring the restaurants featured in this guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Thailand’s diverse culinary heritage and the significant contribution Thai immigrants have made to Los Angeles’ food culture.
In conclusion, Los Angeles stands as America’s premier destination for authentic Thai cuisine, offering a rich gastronomic experience that caters to all tastes and preferences. So, the next time you’re in LA, be sure to explore the city’s Thai food paradise and discover the flavors that make it so unique.
The above is subject to change.
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