12 Must-Try Thai Restaurants Across California You Can’t Miss

California’s diverse food scene offers some of the best Thai cuisine outside of Thailand. From Michelin-starred gems in San Francisco to family-run spots in Los Angeles, these restaurants serve authentic flavors that transport you straight to Bangkok. Ready to spice up your dining adventures? Here are 12 amazing Thai restaurants across the Golden State worth traveling for.

1. Kin Khao – San Francisco’s Hidden Gem

Tucked inside Parc 55 Hotel, this MICHELIN-starred wonder transforms traditional Thai recipes into modern masterpieces. Chef Pim Techamuanvivit crafts dishes that honor her Bangkok roots with California’s fresh ingredients.

The nam tok beans and khao soi northern curry noodles showcase why this spot earned such prestigious recognition.

2. Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine – The Expanding Empire

With locations sprouting across California like bamboo shoots, Farmhouse Kitchen has become a beloved Thai food empire. Their panang neua (short ribs) falls apart with the gentlest touch of your fork.

The vibrant decor matches equally colorful dishes that pack authentic flavors without compromising on presentation or quality.

3. New Thai Elephant – Bay Area’s Comfort Food Champion

Family recipes shine at both San Francisco and San Mateo locations. Their pad see ew features wide, perfectly charred noodles that’ll make you close your eyes in pure bliss.

Regulars swear by the tom kha soup; creamy, aromatic, and soul-warming. The modest decor belies the kitchen’s extraordinary skill with traditional flavors.

4. Jitlada – Los Angeles’ Spice Paradise

Southern Thai heat reaches its pinnacle at this legendary Hollywood spot. The Jazz Burglar’s spicy clams and crying tiger beef will test even seasoned spice lovers’ tolerance.

Celebrity photos line the walls, testament to Jitlada’s fame. Owner Jazz Singsanong’s warm hospitality makes every visitor feel like family, even as they sweat through her fiery creations.

5. Luv2Eat Thai Bistro – Phuket Flavors in Hollywood

Chefs Fern and Pla bring their Phuket heritage to every plate at this unassuming strip mall treasure. Their moo hong (braised pork belly) practically dissolves on your tongue, carrying sweet and savory notes.

The crab curry showcases why Phuket cuisine deserves its own spotlight in Thai food conversations. No shortcuts or watered-down flavors here!

6. Night + Market Song – Silver Lake’s Street Food Revolution

Chef Kris Yenbamroong’s neon-lit hotspot reimagines Northern Thai street food with rock ‘n’ roll attitude. The fried chicken sandwich slathered with papaya slaw defies categorization yet feels perfectly at home here.

Natural wines pair surprisingly well with spicy larb and grilled pork collar. Come for the food, stay for the electric atmosphere that buzzes with Silver Lake energy.

7. Holy Basil – Downtown LA’s Modern Thai Marvel

Starting as a pop-up and evolving into multiple locations, Holy Basil represents Thai cuisine’s exciting future. Their khao soi gai features housemade curry paste that undergoes a 24-hour preparation process.

The new Santa Monica outpost brings their signature pad krapow (holy basil stir-fry) to westside diners. Each dish balances tradition with contemporary techniques and local ingredients.

8. Ayara Thai Cuisine – LAX’s Unexpected Culinary Treasure

Just minutes from airport runways, this family-run gem has been serving authentic Thai comfort food since 2004. Their boat noodles feature a rich broth that simmers for hours, developing complex layers of flavor.

Closed only on Tuesdays, Ayara’s consistently excellent food draws locals who happily share their secret spot with travelers seeking pre-flight satisfaction.

9. Palm Thai Restaurant – Hollywood’s Entertainment Haven

Before Thai Town became trendy, Palm Thai was already serving authentic cuisine with a side of karaoke. Their crispy catfish salad balances heat, acid, and texture in perfect harmony.

Weekend nights feature Thai Elvis impersonators serenading diners between bites of papaya salad. This institution represents old-school Thai hospitality where generous portions match the generous spirit.

10. Thai Patio – Thai Town’s Bustling Centerpiece

Located in the heart of Thai Town, this restaurant’s sprawling patio buzzes with energy day and night. Their jade noodles; thin egg noodles topped with barbecue pork, crab meat, and peanuts showcase simple Thai perfection.

Late-night hours make this spot popular with chefs after their shifts. The extensive menu satisfies both Thai food novices and experienced enthusiasts.

11. Pailin Thai Cuisine – Northern Thai Specialists

Northern Thai cuisine gets its proper spotlight at this Hollywood Boulevard favorite. Their nam prik noom (roasted chili dip) arrives with fresh vegetables and pork rinds for dipping; a traditional Chiang Mai snack.

The khao soi here ranks among California’s best versions. Each regional specialty transports diners to Thailand’s mountainous north without leaving Hollywood.

12. Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant – San Diego’s Plant-Based Paradise

Proving Thai food doesn’t need meat to deliver authentic flavors, Plumeria creates plant-based magic in University Heights. Their avocado curry presents a California twist on traditional recipes without sacrificing Thai soul.

Meat-eaters frequently leave surprised at how satisfied they feel. The bright, airy space matches the lightness of dishes that don’t compromise on depth or complexity.