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Andaman Thai
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Andaman Thai
7.8
Neighborhood Thai kitchen with clearly labeled vegetarian dishes and easy vegan swaps. Dependable curries, basil tofu, and fresh rolls make it an after-work staple near Broadway/Whole Foods.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pumpkin Curry (tofu, no fish sauce on request), Basil Tofu Stir-Fry, Fresh Spring Rolls
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Vegetarian items are labeled and easily veganized.
Who should go: Veg diners craving comforting Thai classics
When to visit: Weeknights before 6:30 pm for faster seating
What to order: Pumpkin curry; basil tofu; fresh rolls
Insider tip: Specify no fish/oyster sauce for vegan prep.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small shared lot behind the building and easy street parking along Newell after 5 pm.
Dress code: Casual—most guests come straight from work or errands.
Noise level: Moderate; you can hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak hours, usually no reservations needed.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait—service is fast for office lunch breaks.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—clearly labeled and well-executed classics like tofu or veggie curries.
Vegan options: Yes—nearly all vegetarian dishes can be made vegan upon request.
Gluten-free options: Limited—some curries and rice plates are suitable, but soy sauce is not gluten-free by default.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More of a casual comfort spot than a romantic setting—great if you want low-key conversation and solid food without fuss.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are fine. Even on weekends, turnover is quick due to takeout traffic.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-friendly atmosphere with mild-spice options and quick service that works well for early dinners.
Best For
Better for: Reliable flavor and customization for plant-based Thai staples at a fair price.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale presentation or cocktails—this is more neighborhood casual.
Andaman Thai
7.8
Casual Newell Avenue location of a small East Bay group offering a broad Thai menu. Known for efficient pacing, approachable spice levels, and a wide selection of curries and stir-fries.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pumpkin Red Curry, Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles), Larb Gai
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Broad, crowd-pleasing Thai menu with quick service.
Who should go: Families and weeknight diners
When to visit: Weeknights after 7pm for easier parking and seating
What to order: Pumpkin red curry, drunken noodles, larb gai
Insider tip: Spice runs mild—ask for Thai hot if you want heat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Private lot shared with the Newell shopping center—free and usually available evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Casual; anything from jeans to business-casual is fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy for conversation even during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes typical, though larger parties may wait longer after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait; quick seating and efficient turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – nearly all stir-fries and curries can be made vegetarian upon request.
Vegan options: Yes – several curries and noodle dishes can be prepared vegan by omitting fish sauce and egg.
Gluten-free options: Yes – most rice dishes are gluten-free; soy sauce substitutions available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic setting, but fine for a casual, low-pressure meal with easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Only large groups might consider calling ahead on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Very; staff are accommodating with booster seats and mild spice levels, and service is quick enough for families.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and broader menu variety than trendier Thai spots downtown.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale ambiance or craft cocktails—try Torsap Thai instead.