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Kin Khao
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Kin Khao
8.7
Chef-driven Thai in the Parc 55 with precise, layered flavors and a short menu of regional standouts. A destination downtown option when you want sharper execution and serious cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pretty Hot Wings, Khao Soi, Massaman Nuea (braised beef cheeks)
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Elevated regional Thai with a tight, technique-driven menu.
Who should go: Serious Thai eaters and cocktail fans
When to visit: Early evening for easier reservations
What to order: Pretty Hot Wings, khao soi, massaman beef
Insider tip: Menu is small—share plates to try more variety.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel valet at Parc 55 available ($15-20); limited metered street parking nearby, fills quickly after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine if paired with a nice shirt; many diners lean toward dressy given downtown location.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz from bar and dining room, but still suitable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; tables turn quickly with business diners.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several dishes such as mushroom hor mok and papaya salad are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 options can be made vegan, though fish sauce appears in many dishes.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several curries and rice dishes are naturally gluten-free; staff can guide substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its stylish downtown setting, creative cocktails, and shareable plates make it ideal for an impressive but relaxed date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky—walk-ins may find bar seats or off-peak tables, but evenings usually require advance booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—no dedicated kids’ menu, higher spice levels, and a cocktail-focused vibe suit adults more than young children.
Best For
Better for: A sharper, chef-driven Thai experience with elevated cocktails and refined plating compared to casual Thai spots downtown.
Skip if: You’re looking for cheap eats, big menus, or a laid-back family environment—other Little Saigon spots are better for that.
Kin Khao
8.8
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:
Hor mok curry mousse, Green curry with rabbit, Som tum (papaya salad)
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Michelin-star Thai using top Bay Area ingredients with unapologetic heat.
Who should go: Serious Thai flavors fans and date-night diners
When to visit: Early evening before Union Square peak
What to order: Hor mok; green curry with rabbit; som tum
Insider tip: They validate Parc 55 valet for short stays; plan ahead.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated Parc 55 valet ($12 for short stays); street parking is scarce and competitive in Union Square, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are acceptable but most diners lean toward polished attire given the Michelin setting.
Noise level: Moderate—lively buzz from the dining room, but you can comfortably hold a date-night conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; reservations are strongly advised.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins often accommodated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple composed dishes and curries feature vegetables and tofu.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—around 2–3 options; clarify with server to adjust spice pastes and sauces.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several dishes can be prepared gluten-free; staff are familiar with accommodating requests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The Michelin star prestige, polished service, and bold Thai flavors make it impressive yet approachable for a memorable first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays, especially at lunch, but weekend evenings almost always require a reservation. Walk-ins risk long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The menu is spice-forward and the setting leans upscale, better suited for adults or older teens who enjoy adventurous flavors.
Best For
Better for: Unapologetically bold Thai flavors with Michelin-level precision and Bay Area ingredients—ideal for special nights or serious Thai enthusiasts.
Skip if: You’re seeking mild, family-style Thai or a casual budget-friendly meal; the setting and flavors lean upscale and assertive.