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Best Hidden Gems Thai in SoMa
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Master Critic Review
Basil Thai Restaurant & Bar
8.1
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Trendy Table Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Happy Hour Hotspots
SoMa mainstay (since 1995) known for polished Thai staples, a full bar, and steady lunch-and-dinner crowds. Dishes lean savory and balanced, with specials and a few seafood standouts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crab Fried Rice, Crispy Catfish Salad, Honey Roasted Duck
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Long-running Thai spot pairing familiar classics with a proper bar.
Who should go: Office groups and after-work diners
When to visit: Early evening to avoid prime-time waits
What to order: Crab fried rice; crispy catfish; roasted duck
Insider tip: Bar seats turn faster at peak dinner hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Folsom is metered and limited; nearby paid garages on 5th and 6th are more reliable after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual—office attire blends in, but jeans and neat tops are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing during peak dinner hours but still workable for group conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation at peak times
Weekday lunch: Usually seated within 5–10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several curries, stir-fries, and appetizers can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—around 3–4 dishes; confirm fish sauce exclusions with staff.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many rice-based dishes are naturally gluten-free; soy sauce substitutions available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—polished ambiance and a full bar create a relaxed but lively setting, though it’s better for casual than romantic dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes during lunch, but for evenings it’s smart to book; walk-ins at the bar are your best bet otherwise.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids—booths and shareable dishes work well, but it’s more of an adult after-work crowd during evenings.
Best For
Better for: Stronger for sit-down Thai with cocktails and group-friendly portions compared to casual counter-service spots.
Skip if: If you’re seeking ultra-authentic street-style heat or super quiet dining, other Thai restaurants may be a better fit.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 9:30pm
Tuesday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 9:30pm
Thursday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 9:30pm
Friday11:30am - 2pm, 5pm - 10:30pm
Saturday5pm - 10:30pm
Sunday5pm - 9:30pm