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Thai Spice
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Thai Spice
7.8
Polk Gulch standby offering a broad menu of Thai comforts in a relaxed setting. Reliable curries and wok dishes make it a solid midweek go-to for locals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles), Green Curry, Larb
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Steady, neighborhood-priced Thai with a wide menu.
Who should go: Weeknight diners and Polk Street locals
When to visit: Lunch specials or early dinner for best pace
What to order: Pad kee mao, green curry, larb
Insider tip: Spice runs true—ask medium-plus for a proper kick.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Polk can be tight after 6 pm; best to use nearby paid lots at Bush or Pine Streets.
Dress code: Casual—neighborhood-friendly vibe where jeans and sneakers fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—steady background chatter but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Typically 20–30 minutes without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait; quick turnover with lunch specials served fast.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several stir-fries, curries, and noodle dishes can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—request tofu or veggie substitutions and no fish sauce.
Gluten-free options: Some dishes can be adapted; staff can point out safer options upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s comfortable and unfussy, better suited for a relaxed meal than a romantic night—ideal for an early-stage casual date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—most guests walk in, though weekend nights can require a short wait during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids; the space is casual with familiar flavors, though it’s not geared toward very young children.
Best For
Better for: Reliable curries and wok dishes at fair prices in a no-pressure environment.
Skip if: You’re seeking high-end Thai or a destination dining experience—this is more about consistency than spectacle.
Thai Spice
7.8
Long-running Polk Street stalwart (since 1989) offering a broad menu of Thai comfort standards. Recently refreshed interiors make it a steady pick for groups and takeout alike.
Must-Try Dishes:
Green Curry, Pad Kee Mao, Tom Kha Gai
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Decades-strong neighborhood Thai with refreshed space and broad menu.
Who should go: Groups and comfort-food seekers
When to visit: Weeknights 6–7pm for fastest seating
What to order: Green curry, pad kee mao, tom kha gai
Insider tip: Call ahead for large orders; portions travel well for takeout.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking; can be challenging after 6pm on Polk—metered spots turn over faster on side streets.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sneakers are fine; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is manageable but expect bustle during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes without a reservation, longer for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; tables turn quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Yes—several dishes can be prepared vegan upon request (ask to omit fish sauce or egg).
Gluten-free options: Limited—rice dishes and some curries are safe, but cross-contact in the kitchen is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s comfortable and reliable, but not especially romantic—better for casual dinners or second/third dates than an elevated first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common; wait times are moderate. Calling ahead helps for groups of 4+.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of shareable plates. High chairs available, and mild-spice dishes suit younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Large menus and group dining—great for mixed tastes and casual takeout nights.
Skip if: If you’re seeking high-design interiors, chef-driven plating, or a date-night setting; consider Fin Thai SF instead.
Thai Spice
8.0
Long-running Polk Street spot known for tidy plates, balanced spice, and reliable service. Portions are fair and the menu covers comfort staples alongside a few seasonal specials.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pumpkin Red Curry, Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles), Tom Kha Gai
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Decades-strong neighborhood fixture with dependable flavors.
Who should go: Friends splitting curries and noodles
When to visit: Fri–Sun 6–7pm before peak
What to order: Pumpkin curry, drunken noodles, tom kha gai
Insider tip: Request medium-plus spice for more pronounced aromatics.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking; can be tight on weekends after 6pm. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and t-shirts are fine; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing dining room but you can still hold conversations without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes around peak hours if you don’t have a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, especially before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many dishes can be ordered vegetarian and tofu is available as a protein substitute.
Vegan options: Several vegan-friendly dishes available; staff can guide substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Some options can be prepared gluten-free, but no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re looking for a laid-back, comfortable setting with dependable food. It’s not candlelit or romantic, but it’s casual and easy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common. Expect short waits on weekends; weekdays are typically fine.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—high chairs available and the menu has mild, approachable options for kids.
Best For
Better for: Reliable comfort Thai classics with consistent spice levels and service in a neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You’re seeking trendier Thai or upscale ambiance—look to Lers Ros or House of Thai instead.