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ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gems Thai in the Tenderloin
Best Cheap Eats Thai in the Tenderloin
Best Thai in the Tenderloin
Master Critic Review
Lers Ros Thai — Hayes Valley
8.5
Hayes Street’s Thai workhorse from chef Tom Silagorn serving assertive, region-spanning flavors before and after symphony or opera. The menu runs deep, with heat and herbal notes dialed in.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Pork Belly with Basil, Grilled Beef Salad (Nam Tok/Laab Neua), Pad Kee Mao
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Big-flavor Thai near the performing arts corridor.
Who should go: Spice lovers and pre-show diners
When to visit: Before curtain or late after crowds
What to order: Crispy pork belly basil, beef salad, pad kee mao
Insider tip: Request Thai-level spice only if you really mean it.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Hayes can be competitive, especially on show nights; nearby paid garages like the Performing Arts Garage usually have spaces.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and sneakers are fine, but you’ll see theatergoers in dressier attire before performances.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is possible but expect buzz during peak pre-show hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer around symphony or opera curtain times.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait—walk-ins are usually seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many curries, noodle dishes, and stir-fries can be prepared vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—ask for tofu substitutions and no fish sauce.
Gluten-free options: Some options available—pad Thai and certain curries can be made gluten-free upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if your date enjoys bold flavors and a lively atmosphere. It’s casual but energetic—less ideal for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins are common, but expect a wait around performance times. Reservations are recommended if you’re on a tight schedule.
Is it kid-friendly? It works for families with older kids who enjoy spice and adventurous flavors. Limited space and higher spice levels may not suit very young children.
Best For
Better for: Lers Ros excels at bold, authentic flavors and an extensive regional menu, making it a stronger choice for adventurous Thai eaters than nearby casual spots.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for a quiet, romantic dinner or extremely mild Thai flavors—opt for a calmer, more polished setting instead.
Hours
Monday10:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Tuesday10:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Wednesday10:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Thursday10:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Friday10:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 10pm
Saturday11am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Sunday11am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm