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House of Thai 2
Master Critic Review
House of Thai 2
8.1
Long-running Lower Haight outpost of the House of Thai group turning out bold wok dishes, curries, and noodle staples. Reliable takeout with enough heat control for mixed groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles), Panang Curry, Som Tum (Papaya Salad)
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Spice-forward wok cooking with broad menu depth and steady execution.
Who should go: Groups wanting classic Thai standbys
When to visit: Early evening to avoid takeout rush
What to order: Pad kee mao; panang curry; papaya salad (medium+ heat)
Insider tip: Request Thai-style heat; kitchen can push spice with balance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; usually available within a few blocks but tight after 6pm on weekends.
Dress code: Casual — most diners wear jeans and everyday attire.
Noise level: Moderate — lively chatter during dinner but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for a table; takeout waits can stretch to 45 minutes during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; fast seating and quick service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — extensive selection with tofu substitutions and veggie stir-fries.
Vegan options: Moderate — many dishes can be made vegan upon request by omitting fish sauce and egg.
Gluten-free options: Some options — rice dishes and curries are safest; soy sauce-based stir-fries may contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups than romantic settings; great if you want a low-pressure meal with flavorful food and quick service.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations; walk-ins are fine, but aim before 6:30pm on weekends to avoid a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — family-friendly with highchairs available; spice levels can be adjusted for kids.
Best For
Better for: Large portions, consistent heat control, and fast takeout make it ideal for group dinners or weeknight comfort meals.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet, upscale Thai experience or chef-driven plating — this spot is more about hearty, reliable classics than ambience.