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Nine & Nine Thai Kitchen
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Nine & Nine Thai Kitchen
8.4
Women-owned neighborhood staple consistently delivers bold flavors with generous portions at wallet-friendly prices. Locals praise the panang curry and pad see ew as the best in Pasadena, with accommodating service that handles dietary restrictions with ease.
Must-Try Dishes:
Panang Curry with Beef, Pad See Ew, Tom Yum Kai Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Consistently excellent noodles and curries at unbeatable prices
Who should go: Budget-conscious curry and noodle lovers
When to visit: Weekday lunch for quick takeout
What to order: Panang curry, pad see ew, Tom Yum soup
Insider tip: Add the house-made spicy chili paste
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Strip mall lot with 20+ spaces, rarely full even at peak times
Dress code: Completely casual, come as you are - it's a neighborhood spot
Noise level: Moderate - lively but conversation-friendly
Weekend wait: 15-20 min for dine-in, takeout ready in 15 min
Weekday lunch: No wait, quick counter service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - tofu substitutions available for all dishes
Vegan options: Yes with modifications - ask for no fish sauce, coconut-based curries work well
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice noodles available, but soy sauce in many dishes
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual dates - it's low-key with fluorescent lighting and basic decor, but the food quality and prices make it perfect for a laid-back vibe
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they don't take reservations - just walk in, rarely more than a short wait even on weekends
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, mild options on request, and quick service keeps little ones happy
Best For
Better for: Best value Thai in Pasadena - portions and flavors that rival pricier spots at half the cost, plus they nail spice levels on request
Skip if: You want ambiance for special occasions - head to Saladang Song for date night atmosphere instead
Nine & Nine Thai Kitchen
8.2
This neighborhood gem delivers authentic Thai flavors at incredibly affordable prices, with generous portions and speedy service. The lunch specials at just $10 make it one of the best values in town, while their pad see ew and panang curry consistently earn rave reviews from regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Panang Curry with Beef, Pad See Ew, Tom Yum Kai Soup
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Unbeatable $10 lunch specials with authentic flavors
Who should go: Budget-conscious locals and Caltech students
When to visit: Weekday lunch for best deals
What to order: Lunch special curry, pad see ew, tom yum soup
Insider tip: Ask for extra spicy chili paste on the side
Nine & Nine Thai Kitchen
8.3
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Hidden Gems Heaven
Local favorite delivering authentic Thai noodle dishes and curries with consistent execution and generous portions. The women-owned establishment has built a loyal following through attentive service and traditional preparations like panang curry and pad see ew.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad See Ew with Chicken, Panang Curry, Tom Yum Kai Soup
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Authentic Thai flavors with notably generous portions at budget-friendly prices
Who should go: Locals craving reliable Thai food without the fuss
When to visit: Weekday lunch for excellent value lunch specials
What to order: Pad see ew, panang curry with beef, yellow curry seafood
Insider tip: Order dishes at spice level 3-4 for authentic Thai heat
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot in Playhouse Village complex, ample spots during most hours
Dress code: Casual - workout clothes to jeans perfectly acceptable
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - easy conversation at any table
Weekend wait: 10-15 min without reservation, moves quickly
Weekday lunch: No wait, immediate seating typical
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including tofu versions of most dishes
Vegan options: Yes - can modify most dishes, specify no fish sauce/oyster sauce
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice noodle dishes available, but cross-contamination risk in shared kitchen
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual early dates than romantic dinners. The strip mall setting and bright lighting lean more comfortable than intimate, but the quiet atmosphere allows good conversation and generous portions offer solid value.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, easily most times. They don't take reservations and operate first-come-first-served. Weekend dinner might have a short wait, but turnover is quick since it's primarily a casual dining spot.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - one of their core strengths. Casual atmosphere, quick service, and ability to adjust spice levels make it ideal for families. High chairs available and staff is patient with children.
How spicy is the food really? They adjust to American palates by default. If you want authentic Thai heat, explicitly request spice level 3-4 (on their 1-5 scale). Level 1-2 is mild, level 5 approaches true Thai restaurant spice.
Is this better for lunch or dinner? Lunch edges ahead for value - their lunch specials ($10-12) include generous portions with soup or salad. Dinner service is identical quality but standard menu pricing, so lunch delivers better bang for buck.
Best For
Better for: Consistent, authentic Thai at lower prices than Pasadena's sit-down Thai restaurants. Beats competitors on portion size and reliability - you know exactly what you're getting every visit. Superior choice for takeout or quick meals over lingering dinner experiences.
Skip if: You want romantic ambiance or special occasion atmosphere - the strip mall location and functional decor can't compete with full-service Thai restaurants. Also skip if you need guaranteed gluten-free preparation or are seeking innovative/modern Thai fusion - this is traditional execution focused on classics.