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Thai Boom
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Thai Boom
7.8
Family-owned neighborhood gem serving authentic Thai classics in a cozy, unpretentious setting. The lunch specials offer generous portions of well-executed pad thai and aromatic curries that keep locals coming back.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yellow Curry with Potato, Pad Kee Mow (Drunken Noodles), Pineapple Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Authentic family recipes with budget-friendly lunch specials.
Who should go: Thai food lovers seeking authentic flavors
When to visit: Weekday lunch for best deals and quick service
What to order: Yellow curry, drunken noodles, vegetable gyoza
Insider tip: Ask for extra spice level - they'll customize heat
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking usually available, metered until 6pm, free evenings
Dress code: Very casual - come as you are, locals in everything from workout gear to business casual
Noise level: Lively but manageable - easy conversation at tables
Weekend wait: 15-30 min Friday/Saturday peak, walk-ins usually ok
Weekday lunch: No wait - quick turnover during lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - tofu substitutions available for most dishes
Vegan options: Yes - specify no fish sauce, they'll accommodate
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice noodle dishes available, ask about soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for casual first dates - relaxed atmosphere takes pressure off, affordable enough to treat, and sharing plates creates natural conversation
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations, first-come first-served, rarely more than 20 min wait even on busy nights
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, mild options on request, families welcomed, casual enough for kids to be kids
Best For
Better for: More authentic and affordable than trendy West LA Thai spots, better lunch deals than nearby competitors, spice customization beats chain restaurants
Skip if: You want Instagram-worthy plating, need a full bar, or prefer fusion over traditional Thai
Thai Boom
7.8
This cozy family-run spot serves generous lunch specials featuring classic pad thai, curries, and noodle soups in unpretentious surroundings. The massive portions and wallet-friendly prices make it a local favorite for quick, satisfying Thai comfort food.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Thai Lunch Special, Red Curry with Vegetables, Tom Yum Noodle Soup
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Massive lunch special portions under $12 with salad and egg roll
Who should go: Budget-conscious Thai food lovers seeking hearty portions
When to visit: Weekday lunch for the best deals
What to order: Pad Thai special, red curry, house noodle soup
Insider tip: Order the lunch special even at dinner for maximum value
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking usually available, metered until 6pm weekdays
Dress code: Come as you are - totally casual, anything goes
Noise level: Moderate buzz - easy conversation at small tables
Weekend wait: 10-15 min max, mostly walk-ins welcome
Weekday lunch: No wait - quick turnover for lunch crowd
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - most dishes can be made vegetarian, tofu available
Vegan options: Yes with modifications - ask for no fish sauce, egg
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice dishes work, but soy sauce in most items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual dates - it's low-key and unpretentious with quick service, but not particularly romantic or special
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations, just walk in. Rarely a long wait even at peak times
Is it kid-friendly? Very - casual atmosphere, quick service, mild options available, high chairs present
Best For
Better for: Unbeatable lunch specials and portion sizes - more food for less money than any nearby Thai spot
Skip if: You want ambiance or authenticity - head to Jitlada or Night + Market for elevated Thai