Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Central LA

Salad and Thai food

Thai salads that capture the intended brightness without being watered down for a local palate.

Based on 690 Opinions
+687
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Nong's Thai Kitchen image 1
Nong's Thai Kitchen image 2
Nong's Thai Kitchen image 3
View all

Small dining room offers a cozy, inviting atmosphere with cute decorations and warm vibes. Music adds to the lively yet chill energy, making it feel like dinner at a friend's house.

Papaya salad stands out with its 5th dimension Thai level spice and a dressing that echoes a legendary noodle dish. Larb Lettuce Wraps with tofu also offer a fresh, flavorful option.

Avocado green curry and massaman curry stand out with rich, authentic flavors. Dishes like pad thai, curry puffs, and Khao soi offer original tastes that go beyond typical Thai food.

People are saying

"I thought the Thai food was the most delicious I've ever had."

"You have to try the fried Oreo and sticky rice desserts."

"The papaya salad here is legit and fantastic."

Good to know

1

There is limited parking available in the back of the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait during peak hours; consider visiting off-peak.

3

Lunch specials are available for $15, offering good value.

02
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.

Papaya salad stands out with its pickled crab and crispy pork variations. The salad offers a spicy Thai green flavor and pairs well with dishes like larb and spring rolls.

Red curry delivers a strong spicy kick that tingles the body and numbs the face. The papaya salad stands out as a fresh, flavorful dish, while the green curry offers a rich, authentic taste.

People are saying

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

"I loved the papaya salad with blue crab and fried liver."

"Finding parking available on the street was easy."

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.

03
SAMATA VEGAN HOUSE 🌱 image 1

Small space with cozy, intimate atmosphere and quiet setting despite nearby busy area. Decor is beautiful and inviting, creating a romantic, homey vibe ideal for relaxed meals. Staff-run operation adds warmth and personal touch to the experience.

Spicy Chicken Larb Salad stands out with bold flavors. Other notable options include Papaya Salad, Tofu Larb Salad, and Cucumber Salad.

Vegan Thai dishes come hot and comforting with great prices and spot on taste. Tom Yum Udon Soup stands out as a flavorful choice.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was unbelievably flavorful."

"I found the Thai food here to be the yummiest I ever had."

"The salads here are vibrant and comforting, made with so much care."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays.

2

SAMATA VEGAN HOUSE opens at 1 pm and closes at 10 pm.

3

The interior is small, so plan ahead and call for reservations.

04
Damnoen Saduak (DS) Night Market image 1

Small night market offers authentic Thai food stalls with a lively atmosphere featuring live music and free karaoke. Families and groups gather to enjoy vibrant entertainment and a variety of flavorful dishes. Security presence keeps the space feeling safe and organized.

Papaya salad delivers a perfect balance of fresh, tangy, spicy, and crunchy flavors with an incredible kick from just two chilis. Pork and beef salads also offer authentic care in preparation.

Spicy papaya salad stands out with fresh, bold flavors. The market offers authentic Thai food stalls serving dishes like Pad Thai and desserts featuring durian with sticky rice and mango sticky rice.

People are saying

"This market has authentic Thai food stalls with great prices."

"I loved their authentic Thai food; it was some of the best I've ever had."

"This papaya salad has an incredible kick and perfectly balanced flavors."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20 on site and is cash only.

2

The market operates every Friday to Sunday from 5pm to 11pm.

3

Street parking is available after 10 pm for free.

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.

Unique salads like the Blood Larb Salad offer a spicy kick and bold flavors. Options include the liver salad, shrimp salad, and the consistently ordered Jade Noodle Salad.

Authentic flavors shine in dishes like Pad Kra Pao, Tom Yum soup, and Boat Noodles with everything. The menu includes unique items like Sen Chan Pad Boo and warm mango sticky rice, all served in generous portions.

People are saying

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

"I found the Thai food here to be the best I've had in years."

"The shrimp salad was beyond belief."

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
The Night We Met image 1

Thai-inspired Asian parlour showcases luxurious decor with glowing lanterns and birdcages overhead. Dim lighting and live jazz music create a romantic, intimate vibe suited for couples. The space blends modern luxury with a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Salads feature flavorful sauces and careful dressing. The Caesar salad stands out as exceptionally good. The Gem Salad offers a small but tasty portion.

Roti with Panang curry stands out as an incredible dish. The papaya salad features a flavorful sauce. The deconstructed mango sticky rice offers a creative presentation and burst of flavors.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are delicious and flavorful."

"The Thai food here feels enchanting with all the lanterns and music."

"You can't skip the Caesar salad; it's exceptionally good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

Parking is available in the structure behind the restaurant with validation.

3

Valet parking is offered for convenience.

07
Spicy Sugar Thai Mid-City image 1

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.

Papaya salad appears frequently alongside other Thai dishes like larb and Som Tum. Salads come with sticky rice or minced pork, offering a mix of fresh and savory flavors.

Authentic Thai flavors shine in dishes like the rich panang curry with squash and the insanely good Tom Yum soup with seafood. The pad see ew comes in a lighter Mid-city version and stands out as next level.

People are saying

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

"The green curry here is a perfect 10 out of 10."

"I found the Thai salad here to be delicious and flavorful."

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.

08
SAOHA KHAO SOI THAI CUISINE image 1

Cozy space with open kitchen and spotless cleanliness reflects authentic Thai culture. Warm, homey atmosphere feels inviting and caring, perfect for comfort food lovers. Known for rich, flavorful Khao Soi and fresh, well-prepared dishes.

Papaya salad offers a medium spicy kick with fresh ingredients and a balanced portion. Tomatoes add a distinct flavor that complements the overall dish.

Yellow curry noodles stand out with creamy coconut milk and fragrant spices creating perfect harmony. Pad see ew and pad thai offer fresh, delicious flavors that define the Thai food here.

People are saying

"You have to try the Khao soi; it's fantastic."

"I found parking available, but you have to arrive early."

"The Khao Soi salad is creamy, rich, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

There is limited free parking in front of the shop.

2

The parking lot can be intimidating, but there are plenty of spots out back.

3

The menu offers a variety of options, making it a great spot to explore Thai flavors.

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.

Crab papaya salad stands out with its very spicy and balanced flavor, avoiding excessive sweetness. Son Thom Po offers a unique twist, ranking among the best salads of its kind here.

Flat, chewy noodles with bell peppers, onions, garlic, chili, and Thai basil create a spiritually aromatic Pad Kee Mao at medium spice. This spot serves authentic Thai food widely regarded as the best in Los Angeles.

People are saying

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

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

"The papaya salad here is flavorful, sweet, tangy, and salty."

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
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.

Papaya salad stands out with its fresh flavors and balanced spice. It leans slightly light on fish sauce, which some might adjust to taste.

Pad Thai with chicken stands out for its full flavor and reasonable price. The drunken noodles and green curry offer fresh, bold tastes that many find memorable.

People are saying

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

"The Drunken Noodles here are served with super sweet and fast service."

"The papaya salad here is spot on and flavorful."

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.

11
Thai Deli image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space with intricate Thai artwork and dim lighting creates a cozy atmosphere. The place fills up quickly during peak hours and operates on a cash-only, take-out-only basis. A nearby patio offers a separate sitting area since no seating is available inside.

Freshness stands out with the ginger salad and macaroni salad consistently served. The double Mac salad offers a notable crunch and spice balance, especially in the green papaya salad.

Pad See Ew and Pad Thai stand out as well-prepared and flavorful dishes. The menu includes options like Pad Kee Mao available in three spicy levels, catering to different heat preferences.

People are saying

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

"I thought the teriyaki plates here were the best I ever had."

"You have to try the #5 combo; it's got great teriyaki chicken and ribs."

Good to know

1

Thai Deli accepts only cash payments.

2

Thai Deli offers take-out only with no dine-in options.

3

Call in your order to avoid long wait times.

12
Yai Restaurant image 1
Thai restaurant

Minimal space with almost no decorations creates a simple, unembellished atmosphere. The energy stays steady without much change in vibe. Only cash payments are accepted, and dishes feature bold flavors like unmatched pork larb and outstanding crispy pork with basil.

Nam Tok Beef salad offers a bold, memorable taste. The menu includes Papaya Salad and a grilled beef spicy salad that stand out for their flavors.

Authentic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Green Curry with chicken, and pork larb stand out here. Portions are generous and flavors rich, served by friendly staff who create a homey vibe.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be pretty authentic for LA."

"This place's salads feel like home, reminding me of Bangkok."

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash payments, so plan accordingly.

2

Prices are affordable, with meals averaging around $32 before tip.

3

The fried egg for the Pad see ew is sold separately for $3.

13
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.

Papaya salad features bold flavors but sometimes leans heavily on crab and fish taste. Adjusting the spicy level is possible to suit preferences.

Pad thai stands out as a top dish, especially the veggie version. The menu also features green curry that is spicy and flavorful, along with Papaya salad and Tom Yum soup. Mango sticky rice offers a sweet finish.

People are saying

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

"The tom yum soup was excellent with delicious shrimp."

"I really liked the Papaya salad."

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.

14
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.

Salads here offer bold flavors like the spicy Thai beef salad and the glass noodle salad with eggplant and basil. The papaya salad adds a fresh, tangy touch to the mix.

Authentic Thai food shines here with 100% genuine recipes and dishes made from scratch. The Shrimp Pad Thai and Panang red curry stand out for their rich flavors and freshness.

People are saying

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

"I thought the pad thai was the best Thai food I ever had."

"The green papaya salad here is an explosion of flavor."

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.

15
Thai Patio image 1
Thai restaurant

Restaurant offers outdoor seating and a colorful, fun dΓ©cor 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.

Salads feature authentic Thai flavors with dressings like Nam Tok's toasted rice powder and fresh basil. Options include tender beef, shrimp, and belly pork, all paired with flavorful, well-balanced dressings.

Pad Thai stands out as a key dish, alongside Drunken Noodles that come highly recommended. Mango sticky rice features a heavier sweetness from condensed milk compared to other versions.

People are saying

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

"The lunch specials here are a great deal for under ten dollars."

"I found the beef salad to be very delicious and full of authentic Thai flavor."

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.

Discover more

Central LA, Los Angeles

Area guide
Loading Map...