The Best Thai Food Restaurants in Los Angeles According to Locals

• 1. Top Thai Food Spots in Los Angeles
• 2. Hidden Gems for Authentic Thai Cuisine
• 3. Iconic Thai Restaurants Loved by Locals
• 4. Tips for Enjoying Thai Food in LA
• 5. Real-Life Stories of Thai Food Lovers in LA

1. Top Thai Food Spots in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a haven for food lovers, and Thai cuisine stands out with its bold flavors, rich textures, and diverse offerings. Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries or savory noodles, LA’s Thai food scene offers something for everyone. Here's a list of top Thai food spots in the city that locals swear by:

Thai Street Food Cuisine

CranstonProvidence CountyRhode Island

800 Park Ave, Cranston, RI 02910, USA

1.1 Jitlada

Jitlada, a long-time favorite in LA, is renowned for its extensive menu featuring both traditional and modern Thai dishes. Known for its spicy southern Thai dishes, the restaurant has gained a reputation for its authenticity and bold flavors. Locals rave about the "Southern Thai Curry" and the "Pad Thai," but it's the fiery "Gang Kiew Wan" green curry that truly stands out. This is a must-visit for anyone looking to dive into authentic Thai food in LA.

Thai Cuisine

Bronx CountyNew York

1509 White Plains Rd, Bronx, NY 10462, USA

1.2 Pa Ord Noodles

If you’re craving Thai street food, Pa Ord Noodles is the place to be. Situated in the heart of LA, this restaurant is known for its "Boat Noodles," a traditional Thai dish made with flavorful broth, tender meat, and aromatic spices. Locals flock to Pa Ord for its quick service and deliciously comforting meals, making it a popular spot for a casual meal any time of day.

2. Hidden Gems for Authentic Thai Cuisine

While popular spots like Jitlada might dominate the scene, LA is filled with hidden gems offering authentic Thai food that's just as delicious. Here are a few lesser-known spots you should try:

2.1 Sapp Coffee Shop

Located in Hollywood, Sapp Coffee Shop may seem unassuming from the outside, but it’s a beloved spot for locals craving authentic Thai food. Known for its "Thai Boat Noodles" and "Pad See Ew," Sapp offers simple but flavorful dishes that keep people coming back. This hidden gem is perfect for anyone wanting a no-frills, traditional Thai meal.

2.2 Ruen Pair

Ruen Pair is a small and cozy spot located in North Hollywood. This family-owned Thai restaurant has a loyal following due to its rich, flavorful dishes and warm service. The "Thai BBQ Chicken" and "Khao Soi" (a northern Thai curry noodle soup) are highly recommended by frequent visitors. It's a perfect example of how smaller, less flashy spots can offer some of the most authentic Thai food in LA.

3. Iconic Thai Restaurants Loved by Locals

LA is home to many iconic Thai restaurants, each offering its own twist on traditional flavors and ingredients. These eateries have become staples in the local food scene:

3.1 The Original Thai BBQ

Located in Hollywood, The Original Thai BBQ is a beloved institution among locals. With its wide range of grilled meats, including the famous "Thai BBQ Pork," this restaurant offers some of the best grilled Thai dishes in the city. Locals recommend trying the "Moo Yang" (grilled pork) with sticky rice and a side of spicy papaya salad for a true taste of Thailand.

3.2 Thai Town

Thai Town is a neighborhood in LA that’s home to some of the city’s best Thai restaurants. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a full sit-down meal, this neighborhood has something for everyone. Iconic spots like "Chao Krung" and "Spicy BBQ" serve up everything from curries to noodle dishes, making Thai Town the go-to destination for authentic Thai food in Los Angeles.

4. Tips for Enjoying Thai Food in LA

Exploring Thai cuisine in Los Angeles can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to know how to fully enjoy your dining experience. Here are some helpful tips:

4.1 Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Spiciness

Thai food is known for its spice, and most restaurants in LA are happy to accommodate your spice preferences. Don’t be afraid to ask for extra spice if you enjoy a good kick, but also be mindful that some dishes can get extremely hot. It's always a good idea to start with a moderate level and work your way up!

4.2 Pair Your Meal with Thai Iced Tea

To balance out the heat of your Thai dishes, pair your meal with a refreshing Thai iced tea. The sweet, creamy drink is the perfect complement to spicy foods, and it's an essential part of the Thai dining experience in LA.

4.3 Try the Lesser-Known Dishes

While dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry are popular, don’t miss out on lesser-known options. Try "Khao Soi," a northern Thai noodle soup, or "Som Tum," a papaya salad that packs a flavorful punch. The variety in Thai cuisine is vast, so be sure to explore beyond the classics!

5. Real-Life Stories of Thai Food Lovers in LA

Many locals in LA have developed deep connections with their favorite Thai restaurants. Here are a couple of real-life stories from Thai food lovers:

5.1 Rachel’s Thai Food Journey

Rachel, a local food enthusiast, shares how she discovered her love for Thai food in LA. “I used to be a regular at Thai Town,” she says, “but then I found this small, hidden gem called Ruen Pair, and it completely changed my perception of Thai food. The flavors were so authentic and comforting, and it felt like a true taste of Thailand in LA.”

5.2 Mike’s Ultimate Thai Feast

Mike, another LA local, recalls his ultimate Thai food feast. “I took a group of friends to Jitlada for their Southern Thai curry and the spicy green curry. We were all blown away by the heat and the flavor. I’ve never had a more satisfying meal, and we’ve made it a tradition to go there every year.”

In conclusion, Los Angeles is home to some of the best Thai food in the country, with a variety of options ranging from hidden gems to iconic spots loved by locals. Whether you're craving spicy curries, fragrant noodle dishes, or something a bit different, LA's Thai food scene has it all. Be sure to explore these local favorites and dive into the rich flavors of Thailand!