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Chaa Roen Pohn
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Chaa Roen Pohn
8.3
Thai–Lao kitchen in a quiet Parkside stretch turning out punchy papaya salads, herb-heavy larb, and soulful noodle soups. Friendly service and a compact menu make it an easy weeknight staple with regional dishes you won’t see everywhere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Som Tum Platter, Pad Kra Pao (basil stir-fry), Khao Piak (Lao rice noodle soup)
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Thai–Lao dishes with real regional depth on a quiet block.
Who should go: Fans of bold, herb-driven Southeast Asian flavors
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7pm for easy seating and fresh fry
What to order: Som Tum platter; pad kra pao; khao piak
Insider tip: Ask for the Lao specials menu—some items aren’t on the board.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets; easier before 6pm, but expect some circling on weekends.
Dress code: Casual—locals drop by in jeans and hoodies; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Low to moderate—conversation-friendly with a bit of kitchen clatter during dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes at peak; call ahead for groups.
Weekday lunch: No wait—usually quiet and easy to grab a table.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several tofu and vegetable stir-fries, curries, and papaya salads available.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—ask for fish sauce–free preparation on salads and stir-fries.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—some rice-based dishes and soups qualify; soy sauce used in many stir-fries, so clarify when ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual comfort than romance—great if your date appreciates authentic flavors and neighborhood charm, but not a candlelit spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are fine; reservations aren’t typically needed except for larger groups on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—relaxed service, quick food, and mild noodle or rice options make it easy for families with kids 5 and up.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Lao-influenced dishes and warm neighborhood service—feels homemade and personal.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale ambiance or cocktails; this is a casual, comfort-first eatery.
Chaa Roen Pohn
8.4
Lao–Thai kitchen in Parkside turning out soulful noodle soups, khao soi, and spicy salads at weeknight-friendly prices. Locals come for balanced flavors, quick service, and a tight menu that rewards repeat visits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khao soi chicken, Kao piak noodle soup, Laab pork
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Affordable Lao–Thai comfort with standout soups and salads.
Who should go: Noodle lovers and spice seekers
When to visit: Early dinner to avoid small-room waits
What to order: Khao soi, kao piak, laab pork
Insider tip: Ask for house chili paste on the side to tune heat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Taraval and side streets; spots turn over quickly but can be scarce during dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — locals often come straight from errands or family outings.
Noise level: Moderate — small dining room with steady takeout traffic, but still possible to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes depending on party size; quicker for takeout orders.
Weekday lunch: No wait or brief 5-minute turnaround for dine-in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several noodle and curry dishes can be made vegetarian on request.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options; ask for fish sauce to be omitted.
Gluten-free options: Partial — rice noodle and curry dishes are safe, but soy sauce is used in some stir-fries.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual, low-key dates than romantic ones — cozy but not intimate, with quick service and friendly energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are standard. Arrive before 6:30pm on weekends to avoid short waits for a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families frequent the spot; staff accommodate kids and spice levels can be adjusted easily.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Lao–Thai spice balance and comforting noodle soups delivered fast and affordably.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale ambience or extensive cocktail options — it’s more of a quick comfort spot than a night-out destination.