Any insider tips for Kin Khao?

Menu is small—share plates to try more variety.

What should I order at Kin Khao?

Pretty Hot Wings, khao soi, massaman beef

When should I visit Kin Khao?

Early evening for easier reservations

Who should go to Kin Khao?

Serious Thai eaters and cocktail fans

Any insider tips for The Thonglor?

Check the weekly combo special for a good-value set.

What should I order at The Thonglor?

Pad kee mao; green curry; crispy chicken rice

When should I visit The Thonglor?

After 8:30pm for quicker seating

Who should go to The Thonglor?

Showgoers and hotel-area diners

Any insider tips for Lers Ros Thai — Hayes Valley?

Request Thai-level spice only if you really mean it.

What should I order at Lers Ros Thai — Hayes Valley?

Crispy pork belly basil, beef salad, pad kee mao

When should I visit Lers Ros Thai — Hayes Valley?

Before curtain or late after crowds

Who should go to Lers Ros Thai — Hayes Valley?

Spice lovers and pre-show diners

Any insider tips for The Old Siam Thai Restaurant?

Spice runs hot—ask for medium if unsure.

Any insider tips for Thai Curry Restaurant & Bar?

Call ahead for larger office orders to skip lines.

When should I visit Thai Curry Restaurant & Bar?

Late lunch after courthouse rush

Best Thai Restaurants in Tenderloin (94102)

5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 Kin Khao

8.8

$$$ Union Square

Vibes: Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots Business Lunch Power Players

Michelin-starred Thai from Chef Pim Techamuanvivit inside Parc 55, pairing bold, spice-forward cooking with Northern California produce. Locals book it for dialed-in curries and composed small plates before or after Union Square plans.

Must-Try Dishes: Pretty Hot Wings, Khao Soi, Massaman Nuea (braised beef cheeks)

What makes it special: Elevated regional Thai with a tight, technique-driven menu.

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#2 The Thonglor

8.3

$ Union Square / Lower Nob Hill

Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Group Dining Gatherings Comfort Food Classics

Tiny Union Square spot (since 2019) known for hearty curries, bright papaya salads, and fast pre-theater service. Eight-ish tables keep waits real, but the cooking delivers classic comfort with balanced heat.

Must-Try Dishes: Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles), Green Curry, Crispy Fried Chicken Over Fried Rice

What makes it special: Central Thai spot with long hours and crowd-pleasing wok dishes.

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#3 Lers Ros Thai — Hayes Valley

8.2

$$$ Hayes Valley

Vibes: Group Dining Gatherings Quick Bites Champions Hidden Gems Heaven Trendy Table Hotspots

Hayes Valley outpost of the beloved local group serving a deep, region-spanning menu—from spicy Isan salads to comforting stir-fries. It’s a dependable pre-show stop with fast pacing and broad appeal.

Must-Try Dishes: Crispy Pork Belly with Basil, Grilled Beef Salad (Nam Tok/Laab Neua), Pad Kee Mao

What makes it special: Big-flavor Thai near the performing arts corridor.

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Worthy Picks

#4 The Old Siam Thai Restaurant

7.9

$ Theater District

Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Hidden Gems Heaven Solo Dining Sanctuaries

Long-running Theater District staple offering a familiar lineup of wok dishes, soups, and curries at friendly prices. Reliable portions and steady execution make it a downtown standby.

Must-Try Dishes: Khao Soi, Pad Kee Mao (drunken noodles), Tom Kha Gai

What makes it special: Fast, affordable Thai classics a block off Powell.

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#5 Thai Curry Restaurant & Bar

7.6

$ Civic Center

Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Solo Dining Sanctuaries Family Friendly Favorites

Casual Civic Center counter-service spot focused on fast-value curries and noodles. Useful for quick takeout near the courts and City Hall, with friendly staff and straightforward flavors.

Must-Try Dishes: Green curry, Pad see ew, Mango sticky rice

What makes it special: Fast, affordable Thai staples steps from City Hall.

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