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Rice & Shine
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Rice & Shine
8.4
A modern Thai-meets-brunch concept from the family behind Khan Toke, serving daytime plates alongside proper curries and stir-fries. The refreshed room and all-day hours make it a handy Outer Richmond meetup.
Must-Try Dishes:
Thai Skillet (daytime), Kua Kling, Massaman Curry
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Thai flavors with a brunch lens from a long-trusted local team.
Who should go: Daytime diners and Thai comfort seekers
When to visit: Late morning weekdays for shortest lines
What to order: Thai skillet, kua kling, massaman curry
Insider tip: Barista drinks pair well—add Thai tea or a latte to savory plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Balboa and surrounding residential blocks; usually manageable before noon but tight during brunch rush.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—think neighborhood brunch attire, jeans and sneakers perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate—lively during brunch peak but still easy to chat across a small table.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—closes before dinner service.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:30pm; after that, brief 5–10 minute queue typical.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many dishes like pad see ew, green curry, and Thai omelets can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Partial—several stir-fries and curries can be adjusted, but sauces may contain fish sauce by default.
Gluten-free options: Some options—staff can advise on safe noodle or rice-based dishes; no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual daytime meetups—bright space, friendly service, and creative plates without formal pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm; larger groups should arrive before 11:30am on weekends to avoid a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—family-owned vibe, booster seats available, and mild dishes for young palates.
Best For
Better for: Daytime Thai comfort food with brunch twists—something few Richmond spots execute this smoothly.
Skip if: You’re seeking late-night Thai or a traditional dinner setting; Rice & Shine closes early.
Rice & Shine
8.1
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Reopened in 2025 by the former Khan Toke team, this modern Thai–brunch hybrid turns out comforting curries, bright soups, and breakfast plates from morning through dinner. Locals come for approachable prices, steady flavors, and all-day convenience on the Geary corridor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kua Kling (southern dry curry), Massaman Curry, Pad Thai / Thai Skillet
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 6.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Legacy Khan Toke owners revived Thai classics with an all-day format.
Who should go: Families and brunch-to-dinner Thai fans
When to visit: Weekdays 5–7pm for easier seating and quicker tickets
What to order: Kua kling, massaman curry, pad Thai
Insider tip: Ask for southern-style heat on curries; portions are share-friendly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Geary and adjacent side streets is generally available but can fill quickly during peak dinner hours; no dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Casual—comfortable neighborhood attire is fine, though brunch crowds often lean semi-dressy on weekends.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy at smaller tables, though it gets lively during weekend brunch and dinner rushes.
Weekend wait: Expect a 25–40 minute wait for walk-ins around 6:30–7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is prompt and efficient.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—numerous tofu and vegetable-based curries and stir-fries are available, with substitutions possible on request.
Vegan options: Partially—about 3–4 dishes can be made vegan by omitting fish sauce or egg; staff are accommodating.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some curries and rice-based plates are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce use limits options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re after a casual, low-pressure meal with bright flavors and friendly service; it’s more relaxed than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—walk-ins are fine for lunch and early dinners, but weekend evenings can require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs available, quick ticket times, and mild curries make it great for families with children.
Best For
Better for: All-day flexibility and family comfort; offers both brunch and dinner, which most Thai spots nearby don’t.
Skip if: You’re seeking a romantic, cocktail-forward Thai experience—opt for a more upscale spot like Marnee Thai instead.