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Thai Central Cuisine
Master Critic Review
Thai Central Cuisine
7.8
Family-owned restaurant bringing regional Thai favorites from all over Thailand to one central location. Steamed whole fish with lime sauce and khao soi curry noodles showcase diverse Thai regional cooking from north to south, with breakfast through dinner service in New Hollywood Plaza.
Must-Try Dishes:
Steamed Whole Fish with Lime Sauce, Khao Soi, Shrimp Paste Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Comprehensive regional Thai menu spanning all of Thailand's culinary traditions
Who should go: Groups wanting variety and families seeking authentic regional dishes
When to visit: Open 9 AM-10 PM daily for breakfast through dinner
What to order: Steamed fish with lime, khao soi, boat noodles, shrimp paste rice
Insider tip: Order $75+ through their website for free delivery with no fees
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot in New Hollywood Plaza with 50+ spaces, street parking available on Vermont Ave
Dress code: Casual - t-shirts and shorts perfectly fine, neighborhood spot
Noise level: Quiet to moderate - easy conversation at all times
Weekend wait: 10-15 min wait typical, peaks at 7-8 PM
Weekday lunch: No wait, walk right in
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 15+ options including tofu versions of most curries and stir-fries
Vegan options: Yes - can modify most vegetarian dishes, ask for no fish sauce/oyster sauce
Gluten-free options: Limited - rice dishes and some curries work, but cross-contamination likely in shared kitchen
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual daytime dates - relaxed family atmosphere takes pressure off. Skip for romantic dinner dates - fluorescent lighting and strip mall setting aren't atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. Arrive before 6:30 PM on weekends to avoid short waits, or come after 8:30 PM when crowds thin.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - family-run spot welcomes all ages. High chairs available, mild versions of dishes on request, and patient staff used to kids. Good for toddlers through teens.
How spicy is the food? Adjustable - kitchen will make dishes mild, medium, or Thai hot. If you order 'medium' expect actual heat. Start conservative and adjust up on future visits.
Is this authentic Thai food? Yes - family recipes from multiple Thai regions, not Americanized. Expect bold fish sauce, lime, and chili flavors. If you only know Pad Thai, branch out here.
Best For
Better for: Regional Thai variety and value - one menu covers northern khao soi, southern curries, and Isaan boat noodles that would require 3+ restaurants elsewhere. Better lunch options and breakfast service than most Thai spots.
Skip if: You want date-night ambiance or trendy cocktail scene - this is strip mall dining. Also skip if you need strict gluten-free (shared kitchen) or prefer mild, Americanized Thai food.