The Best Thai Food in East Hollywood: A Culinary Adventure 🍲

Introduction 🌟

East Hollywood is known for its diverse dining scene, and Thai cuisine is one of the most popular options in the area. From classic dishes like pad thai and tom yum soup to lesser-known specialties, East Hollywood has no shortage of Thai restaurants to choose from. But with so many options, how do you know which ones are worth your time and money? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through East Hollywood to discover the best Thai food the neighborhood has to offer.

What Makes East Hollywood’s Thai Food Unique? 🤔

East Hollywood’s Thai restaurants have a reputation for serving authentic and flavorful dishes. Many of these establishments are family-owned, with recipes passed down from generation to generation. The chefs use fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create dishes that are both comforting and exciting. Plus, the prices are often more affordable than other areas of Los Angeles, making it a great option for budget-conscious foodies.

The Best Thai Restaurants in East Hollywood 👨‍🍳

1. Jitlada 🌶️

Jitlada is an East Hollywood institution, known for its bold flavors and extensive menu. The restaurant specializes in Southern Thai cuisine, which is known for its use of spices like lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric. Some of the must-try dishes at Jitlada include the spicy seafood soup, the pad kee mao (drunken noodles), and the green curry with catfish. Be warned, though – their spiciest dishes are not for the faint of heart!

2. Pa Ord Noodle 🍜

Pa Ord Noodle is another popular Thai spot in East Hollywood, known for its hearty noodle soups and stir-fries. The standout dish here is the boat noodle soup, which is made with beef broth, rice noodles, and an array of meatballs and offal. The pad see ew (stir-fried noodles) and pad kra pao (stir-fried basil and meat) are also excellent options.

3. Spicy BBQ 🍢

If you’re in the mood for some grilled meats, head to Spicy BBQ. This Thai barbecue joint offers a range of skewered meats, from chicken and pork to beef and lamb. The meats are marinated in flavorful sauces and grilled to perfection. Be sure to try the sai oua, a Northern Thai sausage made with lemongrass and chili paste.

4. Sapp Coffee Shop ☕

Don’t let the name fool you – Sapp Coffee Shop is more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee. This Thai restaurant is famous for its boat noodle soup, which is made with a rich beef broth and an array of meats and offal. The khao soi, a Northern Thai curry noodle dish, is also a customer favorite.

5. Luv2Eat Thai Bistro 🌿

Luv2Eat Thai Bistro is a relatively new addition to the East Hollywood dining scene, but it’s already making waves with its modern take on Thai cuisine. The menu features dishes that are both creative and traditional, like the crab fried rice with yellow curry and the stir-fried morning glory with crispy pork belly. Don’t skip the cocktails, either – they’re as inventive as the food.

Frequently Asked Questions 🤔

1. Is Thai food spicy?

Thai food can be spicy, but not all dishes are fiery hot. Most Thai restaurants will ask you how spicy you want your food on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the hottest.

2. What’s the difference between pad thai and pad see ew?

Pad thai is a stir-fried noodle dish with a sweet and sour sauce, while pad see ew is a stir-fried noodle dish with a soy sauce-based sauce. Pad thai is typically made with thin rice noodles, while pad see ew is made with wider rice noodles.

3. What’s in a traditional Thai curry?

Most Thai curries start with a base of curry paste (which can include ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and chilies), coconut milk, and meat or vegetables. Different curries can have different flavor profiles depending on the ingredients used in the paste.

4. What’s the best time to go to a Thai restaurant in East Hollywood?

Thai restaurants in East Hollywood can get crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, try going during off-peak hours like early lunch or late dinner.

5. Is it customary to tip at Thai restaurants?

Yes, it’s customary to tip at Thai restaurants just like any other restaurant in the United States. The standard tip is 15-20% of the bill.

6. Are there vegetarian options at Thai restaurants?

Yes, most Thai restaurants have vegetarian options. Look for dishes with tofu, vegetables, or mock meat.

7. Can I bring my own alcohol to a Thai restaurant?

Most Thai restaurants in East Hollywood are BYOB-friendly, but it’s always best to check with the restaurant beforehand.

8. What’s the difference between green curry and red curry?

Green curry is made with green chili peppers, while red curry is made with dried red chili peppers. Green curry is typically milder and sweeter than red curry.

9. What’s the spiciest dish at a Thai restaurant?

Many Thai restaurants offer dishes with varying levels of spiciness, but some of the spiciest options include the papaya salad (som tum) and the green curry.

10. What’s in a Thai iced tea?

Thai iced tea is made with black tea, condensed milk, and sugar. It’s often garnished with a sprig of mint.

11. Can I order food for takeout or delivery?

Yes, most Thai restaurants in East Hollywood offer takeout and delivery options. Check their website or call to place an order.

12. How much should I expect to spend at a Thai restaurant in East Hollywood?

Prices at Thai restaurants in East Hollywood can vary, but most dishes are priced between $10 and $20. Some restaurants may have more expensive options or offer larger portions for sharing.

13. Are there any vegan Thai restaurants in East Hollywood?

Yes, some Thai restaurants in East Hollywood offer vegan and vegetarian options. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations.

Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of East Hollywood’s Thai Food 🍴

East Hollywood’s Thai food scene is a must-visit for any food lover in Los Angeles. From the bold flavors of Jitlada to the inventive dishes at Luv2Eat Thai Bistro, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab some friends and head to one of these restaurants to savor the flavors of East Hollywood’s best Thai food.

Ready to try some Thai food in East Hollywood?

Don’t wait – head to one of these restaurants today to experience the best Thai food the neighborhood has to offer. And, if you have a favorite spot that isn’t on our list, let us know in the comments!

Disclaimer: Our Recommendations are Based on Personal Experience 📝

The recommendations in this article are based on our personal experience and research. Your experience may vary based on factors like time of day, day of the week, and personal preferences. We encourage you to explore East Hollywood’s Thai food scene for yourself and discover new favorites.