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Pad Thai spots in Central LA

Made for those who treat finding a bowl of pad thai that honors its original recipe as a non-negotiable culinary mission.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Spicy Sugar Thai Mid-City image 1
Spicy Sugar Thai Mid-City image 2
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Small, cozy space with authentic Thai decor and a mom and pop vibe creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Quiet and casual, it offers a family-friendly setting with touches like Thai movie posters and humor in menus. Known for incredible, authentic Thai food, especially spicy soups and tasty noodles.

Thai dishes deliver authentic flavors with spicy traditional soups standing out. Every meal offers original and flavorful tastes true to Thai cuisine.

Pad Thai stands out with a rich, authentic flavor that many find exceptional. Variations like the cheese Pad Thai add a unique twist, and it pairs well with crispy sides like wings or duck spring rolls.

People are saying

"I thought the Thai food here was some of the best I've ever tasted."

"I found the Thai food to be amazing and authentic."

"I considered the Pad Thai I had to be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a small lot next to the restaurant.

2

Reservations are recommended due to high demand.

3

They offer a secret menu with traditional Thai dishes.

02
Good Thai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy space with warm Thai decor and friendly staff creates a calm, inviting atmosphere. Plenty of seating adapts easily for groups, making it casual rather than fancy. Authentic Thai vibe shines through in both ambiance and hospitality.

Flavors stay well balanced and authentic across dishes. Cozy space serves genuine hospitality alongside classic Thai meals like pad Thai.

Savory Pad Thai stands out with its balanced flavor that is less sweet than usual. Chicken in the dish stays moist, and the overall preparation is consistently well done.

People are saying

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

"These egg rolls are bomb, the best I've had in a while."

"The Pad Thai here is delicious and comforting, like home cooking."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers an all-day $12 specials menu alongside the regular menu.

2

Parking is convenient and easy near the restaurant.

3

Expect portion sizes to be smaller for higher-priced dishes.

03
Lacha Somtum image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with pleasant decor and a family-owned touch. The menu features an extensive variety of authentic Thai dishes with bold, original flavors. Parking is limited to street options, adding to the intimate neighborhood feel.

Food features authentic Thai flavors with a lot of heat and includes dishes rarely found in other Thai restaurants. Drinks like Thai iced tea complement the menu, which stays true to traditional, non-westernized recipes.

Pad Thai with pork belly stands out for its flavor and texture. The dish balances mild spice well and uses ingredients like salted eggs and crispy pork belly for added richness.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Thai food here to be the best I've ever had."

"I found the authentic Thai food here to be delicious."

"The Pad Thai here is flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area can be difficult, but free street parking is available on the side street.

2

The restaurant has an extensive menu with a variety of authentic Thai dishes.

3

Prices are reasonable, averaging around $15 per person.

04
Pailin Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space with cozy booths and authentic Thai decor creates an intimate, home-y atmosphere. Calm and comfortable vibe invites relaxed dining. Offers varied northern Thai dishes with flavors reflecting genuine Thailand cuisine.

Thai dishes here deliver authentic flavors with a tasty, intimate vibe. Prices stay reasonable while serving fantastic, genuine cuisine.

Pad Thai features a sweeter flavor than traditional versions with an excellent texture. The tofu option balances spices well, delivering a delicious flavor.

People are saying

"It's a family owned restaurant where you can celebrate all your birthdays."

"I found the Thai food to be amazing and authentic."

"The Pad Thai here is amazing with delicious flavor."

Good to know

1

Prices range from $10-$11 per entrée, making it affordable.

2

The portions are large, so consider sharing dishes.

3

The restaurant does not serve alcohol, so plan accordingly.

05
Sapp Coffee Shop Thai Restaurant image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall Thai restaurant with authentic vibes and nostalgic 70s decor. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively, filled with locals during lunchtime and playing classic Thai music. Casual setup invites both gatherings and solo dining, offering a genuine taste of traditional Thai cuisine.

Food features seriously authentic flavors with dishes like Pad Thai that are less saucy and cooked perfectly. The menu focuses on authentic Thai carb dishes that taste delicious and true to tradition.

Shrimp cooks perfectly in a light, flavorful Pad Thai that stays authentic and less saucy than usual. The dish balances spice and lime juice well, making it generous enough to share.

People are saying

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

"The Thai Tea is creamy and perfectly sweet."

"I thought the Pad Thai was the best I'd ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight; consider street parking or metered spots nearby.

2

The restaurant gets busy around dinner time, expect longer wait times.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

06
Mae Malai Thai House of Noodles image 1

Small space with simple interior and lively atmosphere creates a casual, welcoming vibe. Bright ceiling lights contrast with pendant lighting, centering attention at the bar where servers move actively. A family-friendly feel blends with authentic Thai energy and crowd.

Only two places in the world serve this authentic style of Boat noodles—Thailand and here. The Thai spicy level matches what you'd find in Thailand, making the food feel very authentic.

Pad Thai here stands out with a solid balance of flavors and texture. It pairs well with other dishes like Tom Yum and pad kra pow, making for a consistently good meal.

People are saying

"The Thai food here, especially the boat noodles and tom yum, is incredibly flavorful."

"I found the Thai food here to be so authentic, just like in Thailand."

"I found the Pad Thai to be delicious and good."

Good to know

1

Parking is free in the lot and in the parking structure.

2

The Original Thai Boat Noodle Soup costs $8.95 for dine-in and $13.95 for to-go.

3

There is a $5.00 difference in price between dine-in and to-go orders.

07
Her Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy Thai restaurant with casual street food vibes and expanded outdoor seating offers a calming atmosphere despite nearby traffic noise. The space features cute, clean decor that complements the food experience. It attracts diners looking for flavorful dishes in a relaxed, informal setting.

Food offers authentic Thai flavors with delicious taste and perfectly plentiful portions.

Full of flavor and tasting just like in Thailand, the Pad Thai here offers amazing flavor with a reasonable price for the quality.

People are saying

"The Thai Food service was super sweet and fast."

"I thought the Pad Thai was delicious and full of flavor."

"The Thai food here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on neighborhood streets or in the public parking garage nearby.

2

Seating is limited, and most customers prefer takeout over dining in.

3

The total cost is around $30 per person for two appetizers, three entrees, and two beverages.

08
Thai Central Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Thai decor and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly, and music adds to the vibe. Staff are polite, creating a pleasant dining experience.

Flavors stay true to traditional Thai cooking with authentic and vibrant tastes. Noodle dishes like boat noodle and bamee capture the essence of Thai street food perfectly.

Veggie Pad Thai stands out with a flavor that surpasses other well-known spots. The chicken Pad Thai and dishes like basil fried rice also receive positive mentions for their taste.

People are saying

"I had the best Thai food I've ever tasted here."

"I found the food to be authentic, delicious, and vibrant."

"I had the best veggie Pad Thai I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

An automatic 15% service charge is added to all bills without prior notice.

2

Parking options include valet service and limited street parking for one hour.

3

The restaurant offers parking validation for customers.

09
Ruen Pair image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, crowded space with nostalgic old Thai feel and soft lighting sets a cozy, lively atmosphere. Diverse crowd enjoys authentic Thai flavors in a no-frills, vibrant setting. Busy and noisy, it suits casual meals rather than quiet occasions.

Food offers sweet and spicy flavor with good portions. Dishes deliver authentic Thai cuisine taste and quality.

Pad Thai delivers a flavor explosion with consistently good taste. It stands out as exceptionally good and pairs well with dishes like fried rice and panang curry.

People are saying

"The Thai food here tastes like it's from home."

"I thought the seafood here was authentic and worth a special trip."

"I highly recommend the Pad Thai here."

Good to know

1

Parking is valet and cash only.

2

Expect long lines after 5pm; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

Valet parking is available in front of the restaurant.

10
Chao Krung Thai image 1
Thai restaurant

Small Thai restaurant with cozy sitting area and family portraits on the walls creates an inviting atmosphere. Interior blends modern decor with ornate colors and designs, offering a warm and stylish setting. Bar area adds a casual touch, making it suitable for relaxed dining.

Food here tastes 100% authentic with dishes that stay true to traditional Thai flavors. The menu offers a warm and welcoming setting that highlights authentic cuisine consistently.

Shrimp Pad Thai stands out with a flavor that beats cheaper nearby options. It pairs well with Panang red curry and other authentic, spicy dishes that avoid the usual tourist versions.

People are saying

"The green curry here is packed with vibrant lemongrass flavor."

"I found the food here to be super authentic and delicious."

"I thought the Pad Thai here was the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers good deals on appetizers and drinks.

2

Take-out orders typically cost around $62 for two dishes and spring rolls.

3

The menu features unique items not found in typical Thai restaurants.

11
Pattaya Bay Thai Restaurant image 1

Thai restaurant with loud karaoke and live music creates a lively, energetic atmosphere. Crowds gather for singing and socializing, making it a bustling spot. Free parking adds convenience for visitors.

Dishes like pineapple fried rice and pad Thai sukhothai showcase authentic Thai flavors with perfect seasoning. The food consistently reflects authentic Thai style and quality.

Pad Thai Sukhothai offers an authentic and delicious taste. Large portions come with options like crispy pork and a fried egg, making the dish flavorful and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is authentic and delicious, especially the curries."

"I found the food to be very good and authentic Thai style."

"I found the Pad Thai to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available in a large lot next to the restaurant.

2

Food items are priced around $15-16 each.

3

Portion sizes are generous, often leaving leftovers.

12
Palms Thai Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Large, open space with stacked seating creates a busy, cafeteria-like atmosphere. Loud music and noise levels require raised voices for conversation. Decor includes a metallic Elvis statue and Thai cultural elements, with a live music stage adding to the energetic vibe.

Dishes showcase authentic Thai flavors with a focus on Thai street food culture. The Panang curry stands out for its genuine taste compared to other spots.

Generous portions and affordable prices stand out for the Pad Thai here. The chicken Pad Thai served during lunch offers a phenomenal taste that many find amazing.

People are saying

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

"I found the Thai food here to be delicious and packed with flavor."

"I thought the Pad Thai was excellent and my favorite in the city."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the building off Bronson.

2

The average price per plate ranges from $13 to $30.

3

Lunch specials are available daily with entrees around $10.

13
Hollywood Thai Resturant image 1

Large, spacious setting combines elements of a converted grocery store, sports bar, and diner with modern, cozy decor and full bar. Atmosphere shifts from warm and inviting to lively with karaoke and live music, creating a dynamic vibe. Seating includes comfortable booths that offer a sense of privacy amid the open space.

Food delivers authentic Thai flavors with fresh ingredients. The dishes offer a super authentic experience that stands out in Thai Town.

Sweet and tangy flavors define the Pad Thai here, highlighted by crunchy peanuts and fresh bean sprouts. Vegetable options keep it light and tasty.

People are saying

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

"The authentic Thai food here is bursting with rich flavor."

"I tried the Pad Thai and it's one of the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant stays open until 3:30 am on weekends.

2

Valet parking is available for $8 during certain hours.

3

A 2.75% service fee is charged for card payments.

14
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.

Staff show genuine authenticity while food delivers truly authentic Thai flavor. Other cuisines here lack authenticity.

Shrimp Pad Thai features plenty of shrimp and strong flavor. Beef Pad Kra Pao and Pad Kra Tiem also stand out as delicious dishes alongside the Pad Thai.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

"I found the Pad Thai to be delicious and tasty."

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.

15
Thai Patio image 1
Thai restaurant

Restaurant offers outdoor seating and a colorful, fun décor with a chill vibe and friendly, attentive staff. Atmosphere ranges from lively with live music to comfortable and well-lit. Menu features tasty Thai dishes with some standout items like mango fish and BBQ chicken.

Food shows authentic Thai flavors with some dishes more genuine than others. The omelette with chicken offers a larger portion and feels more authentic than the curry.

Pad Thai here has a perfect amount of sweetness that stays true to traditional flavors without catering to the American palate. The Chicken Pad Thai stands out as particularly delicious.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is flavorful with generous portions."

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

"This Pad Thai is so delicious and perfectly sweet."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are $7.99 per dish from 11am to 4pm, except weekends.

2

Parking costs $3 per hour and is limited outside the restaurant.

3

There is a 3% surcharge for credit card payments, which is not disclosed until the bill.

16
Crispy Pork Gang Thai Restaurant image 1

24-hour Thai restaurant offers authentic dishes in a cozy, casual setting with big windows and down-to-earth seating. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and lively, attracting a mix of diners including chefs and late-night crowds. Prices are fair, making it a popular spot for late meals.

Delicious and authentic Thai food draws locals here. The cozy spot offers a genuine Thai cuisine experience in a casual setting.

Super Pad Thai delivers balanced flavors that are not too sweet or oily. Adding crispy pork enhances the dish, making it a standout with spot on beef flavors.

People are saying

"It's a great late night spot for delicious, fresh food."

"The Pad Thai here is flavorful and perfectly balanced."

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

Good to know

1

Crispy Pork Gang Thai Restaurant is open 24/7.

2

They offer lunch and dinner specials.

3

The restaurant charges hidden gratuity and taxes on the bill.

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