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Thai food and chili

Made for those who measure the quality of a meal by the intensity of the heat and the complexity of the chili.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bangkok BBQ Bowl image 1
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Tiny restaurant with minimalist decor and an open kitchen creates a homely vibe and relaxing ambiance. The space feels airy despite limited seating, offering a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Loud kitchen noises occasionally disrupt the otherwise comforting setting.

Authentic Thai dishes like Tom Yum soup and Panang curry stand out for their rich, balanced flavors. Signature items such as the larb fried chicken bowl and mango sticky rice offer a genuine taste experience.

Dishes come with a flavor explosion thanks to chili basil and fried eggs. Homemade chili sauce adds a good kick to steak BBQ and other items.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and packed with incredible flavor."

"The Thai food staff here are super friendly and helpful."

"I added their homemade chili sauce, which had a good kick."

Good to know

1

On June 20, they are having 50% off bowls for the grand opening.

2

On June 21, they will have a BOGO free bowl promotion.

3

They are currently having their soft opening, which includes a free drink.

02
Heng Heng Chicken Rice 2 image 1

Small take-out focused spot with limited seating and a simple interior including a picnic table. Atmosphere feels unassuming and efficient, with a quiet, low-key vibe and occasional heat. Known for silky tender chicken, flavorful garlic rice, and specialty Hainan chicken rice, it draws early crowds despite a sketchy location and limited parking.

Larb sauce features fresh peppers, onions, and lime juice, adding a bright, tangy kick to dishes like fried chicken and basil fried rice. Meals come with chicken broth, two dipping sauces, and often a free Thai iced tea when ordering multiple entrees.

Sauces include a sweet chili sauce and a garlic vinaigrette that pair well with proteins. Meals come with broth, fresh ginger, chili, and a flavorful dipping sauce.

People are saying

"The Hainanese chicken rice food here is the best I've had."

"The Thai food here is fantastic, especially the Zaab Chicken."

"I loved the sweet chili sauce; it complemented everything."

Good to know

1

Heng Heng Chicken Rice 2 is take-out only with limited indoor seating.

2

Call ahead to confirm availability, as popular items may sell out.

3

They offer a promotion: a free $6 Thai iced tea with two entrees.

03
Bao Z Dumpling & Noodle Bistro image 1

Dining room combines modern Chinese vibes with Jiangnan garden atmosphere, featuring soft lighting, small bridges, and flowing water. Ambiance stays calm and elegant, with beautiful music enhancing a relaxing mood. Space attracts those seeking authentic, elevated Chinese comfort food in a clean, thoughtfully designed setting.

Tangy and spicy flavors stand out in the Thai Basil Beef Rice and Pad Kra Pow, both rich with Thai basil and chilis. The Thai tom yum seafood rice offers a refreshing tang, complemented by glazed ribs and a crisp lotus root salad.

Dishes feature fragrant Thai basil and chilis with a noticeable heat level. Spicy noodles and stir-fried items come with a solid chili kick, while fried rice needs extra chili sauce to add flavor.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the soup dumplings, is bursting with juice."

"The Thai food here is so flavorful and juicy."

"The chili here is gorgeous and very nicely done."

Good to know

1

All dumplings and baos are made in-house just before opening for maximum freshness.

2

Most dishes cost between $8-12, making it affordable to try multiple items.

3

Ordering via tablets is convenient and speeds up the process.

04
PON NOODLE image 1
Thai restaurant

Casual Thai restaurant with a clean, comfortable atmosphere and calming background music. Offers fast takeout service and a fridge stocked with beer and soju. Known for authentic, delicious pho and family-friendly vibe.

Authentic Thai flavors shine in dishes like pad kee mao and Pad see Ew with shrimp. The mango sticky rice stands out as a sweet finish, while the spicy papaya salad adds a sharp kick to the meal.

Chili oil here stands out for being fantastic and hot. It pairs well with fried dumplings and adds a strong kick to dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and flavorful."

"I found the Thai food here to be fresh and flavorful."

"Their chili oil is fantastic and great."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a large lot adjacent to the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is known for its clean dining area and bathrooms.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to other Thai restaurants.

05
Nawa Thai Manhattan Beach image 1

Small dining space with bamboo ceiling and cozy, beachy vibe creates a relaxed atmosphere. Limited seating emphasizes a focus on takeout over in-house dining. Food features authentic Thai curries and flavorful dishes with some variation in quality.

Pad Thai with tofu and Panang curry deliver strong, authentic flavors. The mango sticky rice and Tom Kha Gai stand out as highlights with rich, satisfying taste.

Extra spicy dishes come with options to add your own heat using three different chili sauces. The Thai chili sauce stands out for its really spicy kick and adds extra flavor to meals.

People are saying

"You've got to try the lobster Pad Thai; it's super delicious."

"I found the Thai food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The Thai chili sauce added delicious spice and flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals are available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

There is a parking lot directly across the street from the restaurant.

3

Metered parking is available in the structure across Highland.

06
Heng Heng Chicken Rice image 1

Small restaurant with a cozy Thai urban vibe and eclectic colorful seating creates a welcoming atmosphere. The air fills with aromas of herbs and spices, setting a relaxed and inviting mood. Popular for authentic Thai chicken dishes, it draws a steady crowd, especially early for specialty items.

Bold and vibrant flavors define the Thai food here, with dishes like fried chicken and garlic rice capturing the fresh, authentic taste of a Thai food market. The menu also caters well to those with peanut allergies.

Multiple sauce options come with the dish, including a palm sugar ginger chili sauce served in a jug at the table. The chili sauce is a Thai style chicken rice sauce, distinct from Hainanese chicken rice sauces.

People are saying

"The chicken over rice here is authentic and delicious."

"This Thai food's crispy chicken and pork belly are mouthwatering."

"The crispy pork belly is perfectly crisp and not oily."

Good to know

1

To get organs and gizzards, arrive early when they open as they run out quickly.

2

You need to get a parking pass from the restaurant to park there.

3

Parking is available in a nearby motel lot with a permit from the restaurant.

07
MalaTown Express 自选麻辣烫 image 1

Chinese restaurant offers a clean, bright, and modern environment with a self-serve sauce bar that adds a fun, customizable element. The atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, less crowded and chaotic than similar spots. Large bowls and an affordable price point distinguish the experience.

Tom Yum broth stands out with its creamy, spicy profile and hints of coconut flavor. Real lemon slices and lemongrass add a fresh, authentic touch to the soup base.

A strong mala flavor blends Sichuan peppercorn and chili for a spicy kick. Spice level adjusts easily with chili added at the table.

People are saying

"I loved building my own hot pot with fresh ingredients."

"The chili soup base is spicy and flavorful."

"The Tom Yum Thai food here is so delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The price is $9.99 per pound, but it may be higher than advertised.

2

A 20% discount is available for two people and 30% for three or more.

3

They offer a 2-pound challenge where you can eat for free if you finish.

08
Pho VT Thai Vietnamese Cuisine image 1

Small space with bright red decor and half a dozen tables creates a cozy atmosphere. Music playlist adds to the chilled vibe making it suitable for casual meals. The place feels clean and well-kept despite a simple exterior.

Menu blends Thai cuisine with Pho flavors, offering a unique mix. Family-friendly options highlight authentic tastes.

Great chili oil adds heat and flavor. Eating the green chilis causes strong spiciness and coughing. Broth tastes average but could improve with fresh basil, chili peppers, and lime juice.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is so flavorful and fresh."

"The Thai food here is so delicious and fresh."

"I love their great chili oil."

Good to know

1

Parking in front of the restaurant is very convenient.

2

The portions are generous for the price.

3

The restaurant is small and we were seated quickly at 5:30 pm on a Wednesday.

09
Saladang Garden image 1
Thai restaurant

Huge, spacious setting combines modern and traditional vibes with high ceilings and concrete floors. Calm, chill atmosphere features private garden patio and plenty of outdoor seating options. Family-friendly energy suits group dinners with large portions and great value.

Thai food features yellow curry and Thai basil eggplant with tofu and chicken. Warm mango sticky rice complements the dishes well.

Chili Basil with pork offers a rich flavor and satisfying taste. Servers bring chili sauce and condiments with a cold, abrupt manner.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is delicious with perfect spice and flavor."

"The Outdoor Seating is great, with generous portions and insane value."

"I enjoyed the Chili Basil with pork; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

The last call for dishes is at 7:30 PM.

2

Parking is easy to find with both street and lot options available.

3

The portions are family style, ideal for sharing among groups.

10
Asian Bowl image 1
Vegetarian restaurant

Vegetarian restaurant offers Indo-Chinese dishes with customizable Jain options and a diverse menu. Atmosphere is cozy and welcoming with both indoor and outdoor seating, often quiet and pleasant. Decor is simple and well put together, creating a comfortable dining experience.

Khou Sway highlights a strong lemongrass flavor in every bite. Thai Sizzler arrives on a hot plate with a noticeable Thai basil aroma. The curry side balances sweet and spicy perfectly, complemented by tasty rice and noodles.

Chilli garlic noodles and chili cheese garlic fries stand out with strong flavors. Spicy chili paste or oil can easily overpower the dishes, so use them sparingly.

People are saying

"I loved their unique vegetarian Asian fusion dishes."

"The Thai curry had a perfect balance of sweet and spicy."

"I ordered chili paneer and it wasn't the only dish I received."

Good to know

1

Asian Bowl offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

2

Jain-friendly dishes are available upon request.

3

The portion sizes are small compared to the price.

11
Min's Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Small dining room offers a cozy atmosphere with warm, welcoming decor. Busy with families, noise levels rise during peak times. Menu features vegan-friendly options and authentic Thai dishes with rich flavors.

Authentic Thai cuisine shines with yellow curry that is sweet and rich, and crispy juicy satay pork served with freshly made peanut sauce. Soups like Tom Yum and Tom Kha, plus mango sticky rice, add to the well-rounded menu.

Traditional basil chili plate offers a perfect balance of flavors. Pad thai needs added chili sauce to boost its taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The Thai food here feels like a warm welcome from family."

"The chili here feels like a warm, family welcome."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is vegan friendly and accommodates special dietary requests.

2

There is a parking lot in the back, accessible just east of the front door.

3

Expect to pay extra for sides not mentioned on the menu.

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