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The Thonglor
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Thonglor
8.2
Union Square Thai with late daily hours, a broad menu, and steady execution on wok noodles and curries. It’s a convenient sit-down option steps from theaters and hotels without premium pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles), Green Curry, Crispy Fried Chicken Over Fried Rice
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Central Thai spot with long hours and crowd-pleasing wok dishes.
Who should go: Showgoers and hotel-area diners
When to visit: After 8:30pm for quicker seating
What to order: Pad kee mao; green curry; crispy chicken rice
Insider tip: Check the weekly combo special for a good-value set.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near Union Square; nearby paid garages like the Sutter Stockton Garage offer the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual—most guests come in jeans and everyday wear; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—can hold conversations but expect bustle during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes without a reservation, though later evenings often seat faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with plenty of seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many curries, stir-fries, and appetizers are available vegetarian.
Vegan options: Yes—several dishes can be made vegan upon request, especially noodle and curry options.
Gluten-free options: Limited—rice-based dishes are safest; no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a casual first date thanks to affordable prices and easygoing vibes, though it’s not a candlelit or romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t usually required, and walk-ins are accommodated quickly except during peak weekend dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—kids are welcome, with high chairs available and a menu that includes mild noodle and rice dishes suitable for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Convenient late-night Thai near hotels and theaters with reliable execution and fast service.
Skip if: You’re looking for a more upscale or specialized Thai dining experience—head to Lers Ros or Kin Khao instead.
The Thonglor
8.3
Tiny Union Square spot (since 2019) known for hearty curries, bright papaya salads, and fast pre-theater service. Eight-ish tables keep waits real, but the cooking delivers classic comfort with balanced heat.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pad Thai, Green curry, Som tum (papaya salad)
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Compact, pre-show-friendly Thai with balanced, assertive flavors.
Who should go: Theatergoers and downtown workers
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner pre-curtain
What to order: Som tum; green curry; pad Thai
Insider tip: Counter seats turn faster when lines build.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site parking; nearby paid garages on Mason and Geary. Street parking is scarce and metered until 10pm.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are, though theatergoers often look semi-dressy pre-show.
Noise level: Moderate—small space with lively turnover but you can still hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes if you walk in; faster for counter seats.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—curries, papaya salad, and noodle dishes can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—papaya salad, some stir-fries, and tofu dishes are adaptable.
Gluten-free options: Some options like curries and papaya salad are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic night since the space is compact and casual, but works for a low-key pre-show bite.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t required, but arrive early to snag one of the few tables or grab counter seats.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for adults and older teens; space is tight and menu leans spicy, though noodles and fried rice work for kids.
Best For
Better for: Fast service, balanced curries, and authentic flavors in a convenient downtown location.
Skip if: You want a long, leisurely dinner with atmosphere or a large group-friendly space—consider Kin Khao instead.