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Rama Thai Cuisine
Master Critic Review
Rama Thai Cuisine
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Business Lunch Power Players
Hidden Gems Heaven
Hidden in the basement level of a jewelry district arcade, Rama Thai has been a downtown staple since around 2010, serving straightforward Thai comfort dishes to office workers and shoppers. Portions are generous, prices stay reasonable, and regulars swear by the stir-fried noodles and curries for a fast, satisfying lunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad See Ew, Tom Yum Soup, Chicken Curry
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A long-running basement bunker spot beloved for reliable, affordable downtown Thai lunches.
Who should go: Office workers and locals needing a quick, hearty meal.
When to visit: Midday on weekdays for peak energy and freshest turnover.
What to order: Pad See Ew, Tom Yum Soup, and a classic Chicken Curry plate.
Insider tip: Bring a backup payment method and some patience—lunchtime lines move quickly but the tight space can feel packed.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the Jewelry District is limited; meter spots open up mid-day. Paid lots nearby typically run $6–$12 for short stays.
Dress code: Totally casual—office attire, jeans, or whatever you wore to run errands works fine.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch rush; conversation is still easy unless you’re right by the counter.
Weekend wait: Often minimal, 5–10 minutes, since weekday lunch is the true peak.
Weekday lunch: 10–15 minutes during the rush, mostly due to the tight ordering line rather than kitchen delays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most noodle and curry dishes can be made vegetarian, and tofu is always available.
Vegan options: Some options—request no fish sauce and no egg; tofu stir-fries and certain curries can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Partially—curries and some rice dishes work well, but many stir-fried noodles contain soy sauces with gluten. Ask for modifications where possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for casual, no-frills authenticity. It’s more about hearty Thai comfort food than ambience, so not ideal for a romantic first impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations here. Seating is first-come, first-served, and turnover is fast thanks to the lunch-centric crowd.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who can handle mildly spicy dishes and tighter seating. There’s no dedicated kids’ menu or space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Thai classics served in generous portions—ideal for lunch breaks or no-nonsense meals.
Skip if: You want a drawn-out dinner, craft cocktails, trendy décor, or very quiet dining; nearby full-service Thai spots will suit those needs better.