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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Eats Thai in the Tenderloin
Best Thai in the Tenderloin
Master Critic Review
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.
Hours
Monday11:15am - 2:45pm, 4pm - 10:45pm
Tuesday11:15am - 2:45pm, 4pm - 10:45pm
Wednesday11:10am - 2:45pm, 4pm - 10:45pm
Thursday11:15am - 2:45pm, 4pm - 10:45pm
Friday11:15am - 2:45pm, 4pm - 10:45pm
Saturday11:15am - 2:45pm, 4pm - 10:45pm
Sunday11:15am - 2:45pm, 4pm - 10:45pm