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The Thonglor SF
Master Critic Review
The Thonglor SF
8.1
Union Square’s under-the-radar Thai spot balancing crowd-pleasers and a few house specialties at fair prices. Handy pre- or post-theater with brisk service and a broad menu for groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Thonglor Curry, Pad See Ew, Som Tum (papaya salad)
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: A central theater-district Thai with a deep, reliable menu.
Who should go: Pre-show diners and casual groups
When to visit: Early evening before peak theater rush
What to order: Thonglor curry, pad see ew, som tum
Insider tip: Ask for weekly specials—often off-menu and good value.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited near Union Square; garages at Union Square or Mason/O’Farrell are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; theatergoers often lean dressy but jeans and casual wear are common.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is possible though it can get lively during pre-show rush.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially before curtain times.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though small groups may need a short pause for a table.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited but available; ask for tofu swaps and no fish sauce.
Gluten-free options: Some options (like rice-based dishes) can be made gluten-free on request; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—affordable pricing and lively but not overwhelming atmosphere make it a comfortable date spot near the theaters.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially for smaller groups; weekends and pre-show hours may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like Thai flavors; high chairs are limited and the space is compact, so strollers may be challenging.
Best For
Better for: Convenient Union Square location with quick service and value pricing compared to trendier Thai spots.
Skip if: You want an upscale, cocktail-driven Thai experience—nearby Kin Khao fits that bill better.