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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Eats Thai in Chinatown
Best Thai in Chinatown
Best Hidden Gems Thai in Chinatown
Master Critic Review
Hed verythai
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Alleyway Thai near Union Square serving khao gaeng-style set plates—tri-color rice with rotating curries, stir-fries, and a small dessert. Locals like it for punchy Isan flavors, quick service, and solid value just off the main shopping streets.
Must-Try Dishes:
Khao gaeng set (tri-color rice + curry trio), Pork belly set, Yum goong (shrimp salad)
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Set-meal format brings a balanced Thai spread on one tray.
Who should go: Hungry shoppers craving bold Thai flavors
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner to avoid waits
What to order: Khao gaeng set, pork belly, yum goong
Insider tip: Look for Hardie Place off Sutter—it's tucked down the alley.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot; metered street spots on Sutter and Post fill fast—best bet is the Sutter-Stockton Garage two blocks away ($5–$7/hr).
Dress code: Completely casual—tees, sneakers, and shopping bags welcome. No need to dress up even for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate buzz from the small kitchen and lunchtime chatter, but easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes around 6–8pm; turnover is quick since tables are small.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:15pm; fills up fast afterward with downtown workers.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—green curry tofu and basil eggplant are regular fixtures.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for veggie stir-fries without fish sauce; staff can accommodate simple swaps.
Gluten-free options: Partially—many curries and rice plates are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce appears in some dishes.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual shared-lunch vibe than a formal date—tight quarters, fast turnover, and food served on trays make it more about flavor than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-in only. Counter ordering keeps the line moving, and tables usually free up quickly even during rushes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids or adventurous eaters—space is tight, so strollers aren’t ideal. Great for families grabbing a quick bite after shopping.
Best For
Better for: Punchier, more authentic street-style flavors and value-focused set meals than nearby sit-down Thai spots.
Skip if: You’re after cocktails, a long dinner, or plush seating—this is all about fast, flavorful eats.
Hours
Monday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm
Thursday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm
Friday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm
Saturday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm
Sunday11am - 2pm, 5pm - 9pm