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Poom Thai Cuisine
Master Critic Review
Poom Thai Cuisine
7.8
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Late Night Legends
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
This 22-year family-run hole-in-the-wall delivers reliable Thai comfort food with generous portions and prices that defy Santa Monica economics. The homey interior features customer signatures covering the walls, live plants, and even resident tortoises, creating an atmosphere that feels more like dining in someone's living room than a restaurant.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad See Ew, Tom Kha Kai Soup, Panang Curry
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Family-owned for over two decades with loyal following for authentic flavors and value
Who should go: Budget-conscious diners, late-night eaters, families seeking reliable Thai
When to visit: Open until 1am most nights, perfect for late cravings
What to order: Tom Kha soup, Pad See Ew, Panang curry with extra spice
Insider tip: Owner Poom himself often greets guests and makes personalized recommendations
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Pico and surrounding blocks - metered until 6pm weekdays, free evenings/weekends. Small lot behind building often full during peak hours.
Dress code: Ultra casual - worn jeans and t-shirts completely appropriate. This is neighborhood comfort food, not a dress-up spot.
Noise level: Moderate to lively - conversation flows easily but energy picks up during dinner rush. Intimate conversations possible at corner tables.
Weekend wait: 15-25 minutes typical for parties of 2-4, faster turnover than most Thai spots due to quick service
Weekday lunch: Walk right in - busiest 12-1pm but rarely more than 5-10 minute wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 15+ options including tofu/veggie versions of most curries and stir-fries. Staff understands dietary needs.
Vegan options: Good selection - can modify most vegetarian dishes by requesting no fish sauce or egg. Kitchen accommodates requests cheerfully.
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice dishes and some curries work, but cross-contamination likely in small kitchen. Not celiac-safe but fine for gluten-sensitive diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd-5th date when comfort matters more than impressing. The quirky decor (tortoises!) and casual vibe work for established connections, but lacks romantic atmosphere for traditional first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. Just walk in. Weeknight dinners before 7pm usually seat immediately. Friday/Saturday 7-9pm expect 15-25 minute wait, but turnover is quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - one of the best family Thai spots in Santa Monica. Kids love the tortoises, mild curry options available, generous portions to share, and staff is genuinely welcoming to children. High chairs available.
How spicy is 'medium' here? Authentic Thai spicing - their medium has real heat. Start at mild if heat-sensitive. Regulars know to specify 'Thai spicy' for true fire, while 'American medium' gets you approachable warmth.
Is it good for takeout? Yes - one of their strengths. Packaging holds up well, portions travel great, and late hours (until 1am most nights) make it the go-to for late-night Thai cravings. Order directly to avoid delivery markups.
Do they have a liquor license? Beer and wine only - decent Thai beer selection. Most regulars BYOB wine with small corkage fee. The lack of craft cocktails fits the casual, neighborhood vibe perfectly.
Best For
Better for: Value-conscious diners wanting authentic Thai without Santa Monica markup, late-night meals (open until 1am), reliable weeknight comfort food, families with kids who want quick service and generous portions. The consistency over 22 years means you always know what you're getting.
Skip if: You want Instagram-worthy presentation, craft cocktails, romantic date-night ambiance, or modern Thai fusion. If you're treating out-of-town guests to 'best of Santa Monica,' this casual spot won't impress like higher-end options. Also skip if you need guaranteed gluten-free kitchen.