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ZipPicks Awards
Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Westwood
Best Outdoor Dining Restaurants in Westwood
Best Trendy Restaurants in Westwood
Best Romantic Restaurants in Westwood
Best Thai in Westwood
Master Critic Review
Emporium Thai
8.7
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Comfort Food Classics
Birthday & Celebration Central
Emporium Thai is a family-run Thai restaurant with bright curries, southern specialties, and a dining room that fills up with celebratory tables. Awards, long lines, and a deep menu make it a strong choice for birthdays, graduations, and group dinners that still feel casual.
Must-Try Dishes:
Southern curry seafood, Pad Thai or pad see ew, Mango sticky rice
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Award-winning, family-run Thai with bold southern curries and big portions.
Who should go: Spice-loving groups planning a fun, relaxed celebration.
When to visit: Prime dinner hours when the room feels festive and full.
What to order: Southern curry seafood, pad Thai, mango sticky rice.
Insider tip: Ask for heat levels honestly—southern dishes can run very spicy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Westwood Blvd and adjacent residential streets; spots fill quickly during UCLA events. Limited shared-lot spaces behind the building during off-peak hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests come in relaxed attire but celebrations often bring slightly dressier outfits.
Noise level: Lively and energetic during peak dinner hours; normal conversation is possible but group celebrations create a festive hum.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger parties.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins are seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection with multiple tofu and vegetable-based curries, stir-fries, and appetizers.
Vegan options: Good options, especially with customizable dishes—many curries and stir-fries can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Several gluten-free curries and noodle dishes are available; staff is knowledgeable about modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or activity-heavy dates rather than intimate, highly romantic ones. The food impresses, but the energy is lively and group-focused.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait at peak dinner hours. Calling ahead for last-minute holds or arriving slightly early improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families come often. The menu is broad enough for picky eaters, though spice levels should be ordered mild for younger kids.
Best For
Better for: A top pick for celebratory Thai meals with big flavors, large portions, and group-friendly seating compared to quieter or more upscale Thai spots nearby.
Consider Alternatives If: You want a serene, romantic atmosphere or extremely refined, chef-driven tasting menus; choose alternatives in Westwood for that experience.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday4pm - 11pm
Wednesday4pm - 11pm
Thursday4pm - 11pm
Friday4pm - 11pm
Saturday4pm - 11pm
Sunday4pm - 11pm