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Khao Soi Thai
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Khao Soi Thai
8.3
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Family-owned Northern Thai bistro from Chiang Mai specializing in their namesake khao soi, a coconut curry noodle soup that draws devoted regulars. The cozy space tucked into a plaza off Ventura serves healthy, made-to-order dishes with accommodating spice levels and generous portions at reasonable prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khao Soi, Panang Curry with Salmon, Pad Krapow
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: One of LA's best khao soi outside Thailand, made by Chiang Mai natives
Who should go: Northern Thai cuisine seekers and curry lovers
When to visit: Lunch for value or early dinner before rush
What to order: Khao soi (any protein), panang curry, pad Thai
Insider tip: Hard to find in the plaza - look for signs past the main entrance
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free plaza parking lot - plenty of spaces, just hard to spot the restaurant
Dress code: Super casual - gym clothes fine, neighborhood spot
Noise level: Quiet - easy conversation, family-friendly atmosphere
Weekend wait: 10-15 min typical, 25-30 min during peak (6-7pm)
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options with tofu substitutions on most dishes
Vegan options: Yes - can modify most curries and stir-fries, just specify no fish sauce
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice noodle dishes work, but curry pastes may contain gluten
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for low-key dates - quiet enough to talk, affordable, and the food impresses without pretension. Skip if you want ambiance or a sceney vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. Walk-ins only, but waits are manageable except weekend dinner rush. Arrive before 6pm or after 7:30pm to avoid peak.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - mild spice options available, big portions to share, casual atmosphere. Highchairs available. Good for all ages including toddlers.
How spicy is the food? Completely customizable - they'll make it mild for kids or authentic Thai-hot for spice lovers. Default 'medium' is approachable for most palates.
Is the khao soi actually that good? Yes - it's the real deal. Owners are from Chiang Mai and this is their family recipe. Rich coconut curry broth, crispy noodles on top, properly complex flavors. Competes with Jitlada and Night + Market.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Northern Thai (especially khao soi), value pricing, accommodating service for spice preferences and dietary needs, quiet conversation-friendly environment
Skip if: You want trendy ambiance, craft cocktails, Instagram-worthy decor, or Central/Southern Thai specialties like boat noodles or Southern curries
Khao Soi Thai
8.4
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Family-owned bistro specializing in Northern Thai cuisine, particularly their signature khao soi curry noodle soup. The cozy space tucked inside a plaza draws repeat customers with generous portions, attentive service, and fresh ingredients prepared daily. Established in 2016 by owners from Chiang Mai.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khao Soi (Curry Noodle Soup), Crab Fried Rice with Fried Egg, Green Curry with Fried Tofu
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: One of LA's best khao soi with authentic Northern Thai preparation from Chiang Mai natives
Who should go: Northern Thai cuisine seekers, budget diners wanting authentic flavors
When to visit: Lunch hours before 3:30pm break, peaceful patio seating
What to order: Signature khao soi, crab fried rice, pad krapow
Insider tip: Ask for spice level 3-5 if you want authentic heat, free parking in plaza
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking in plaza lot - easy access, no hassle
Dress code: Casual - come as you are, athletic wear totally fine
Noise level: Quiet - intimate cozy space, easy conversation
Weekend wait: 5-15 min typical, call ahead during peak hours
Weekday lunch: No wait - seats available immediately
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - excellent options including vegetable khao soi, tofu dishes
Vegan options: Yes - can modify most dishes, just specify no fish sauce/egg
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice dishes available, but curry bases may contain gluten
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual first dates - cozy intimate vibe, peaceful patio option, won't break the bank. Skip if you want impressive upscale setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they don't take reservations - first come first served. Weekday lunch is safe bet, weekend dinner might have short 10-15 min wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - family-owned spot welcomes kids, mild spice options available, generous portions good for sharing. High chairs available.
How spicy is the food really? Americanized by default (mild-medium). Want authentic Thai heat? Ask for spice level 3-5. Level 5 brings legitimate Chiang Mai fire.
Is it worth the drive from West LA? If you're craving authentic Northern Thai, yes - this is top-tier khao soi in LA. But plenty of good Thai closer to you if you just want standard pad thai.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Northern Thai specialties at unbeatable prices, family-run hospitality, peaceful low-key atmosphere where you can actually relax and enjoy conversation
Skip if: You want trendy scene/bar scene, need Instagram-worthy decor, prefer Westernized Thai flavors, or want Central/Southern Thai specialties like boat noodles or Southern curries