0 Followers
Jitlada
Master Critic Review
Jitlada
8.9
Since the late 1970s, this Thai Town institution specializes in intensely-spiced Southern Thai cuisine from Nakhon Si Thammarat. Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient Jazz Singsanong serves khua kling phat lung dry beef curry and Taepo chicken curry with fiery authenticity that has made this strip mall spot an LA landmark.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khua Kling Phat Lung (Dry Beef Curry), Taepo Chicken Curry, Crispy Catfish Salad with Green Papaya
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 9.6
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized Southern Thai specialties with 45+ years of family recipes
Who should go: Spice lovers and Thai food pilgrims seeking authentic regional cuisine
When to visit: Weekdays for lunch or early dinner to avoid waits
What to order: Khua kling beef, Taepo curry, crispy catfish salad
Insider tip: Ask Jazz to order for you off-menu if you're a regular
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free strip mall lot with 15-20 spaces, fills up after 6pm. Street parking on Hollywood Blvd typically available.
Dress code: Extremely casual - t-shirts and jeans standard. This is a no-frills strip mall spot.
Noise level: Moderate to loud - lively dining room energy but conversation still possible at normal volume.
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation (6-8pm peak), walk-ins accepted
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min wait typical, turnover is quick
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 8-10 solid options including tofu curries and vegetable stir-fries, can modify most dishes
Vegan options: Yes - 5-6 options, kitchen accommodates by removing fish sauce and eggs upon request
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice dishes work but cross-contamination likely due to shared woks and soy sauce prevalence
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves adventurous eating and intense spice. The strip mall setting and cafeteria-style seating isn't romantic, but sharing bold flavors can be bonding. Better for 2nd-3rd dates with confirmed food compatibility.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they take walk-ins but expect 30-45 min waits on weekend evenings. Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6pm) usually seat immediately. Bar seating sometimes available without wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for adventurous eaters 8+. Casual vibe works for families, but the intense spice levels require ordering carefully. Ask for mild versions of curries. High chairs available.
How spicy is the food really? Legitimately HOT - their 'medium' equals most restaurants' 'extra spicy'. Start with 'mild' even if you normally like spice. Jazz doesn't dial it down for tourists - this is authentic Southern Thai heat.
Can I bring a group here? Yes, ideal for 4-6 people to share multiple dishes family-style. Large groups (8+) may wait longer or get split across tables during peak hours. Call ahead for parties over 8.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Southern Thai regional specialties you won't find elsewhere in LA. Jitlada dominates for khua kling, Taepo curry, and jazz fried rice. Better spice authenticity and value than Luv2Eat or Night + Market. Choose this for the real-deal experience over polished ambiance.
Skip if: You need romantic atmosphere (try Hoy Ka instead), can't handle serious spice (go to Emporium Thai), want Northern Thai (choose Bhan Kanom Thai), or need modern Instagram vibes (Night + Market Song is prettier). Also skip if you're spice-averse or need guaranteed reservations for special occasions.