Top 11 Restaurants Offering Best Local Thai Food in San Francisco Area

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San Francisco is a hotspot for Thai food, from pad thai, pad see ew, khao soi, salad, to gaeng keow gai. You’re sure to find the best Thai food in San Francisco. Does this mean that residents of San Francisco now prepare Thai food?

Well, there are unique places with the best Thai chefs preparing Thai food that reminds you of Thai’s culture and traditions. Places like buzzy Michelin-starred restaurants, food trucks, and traditional family-run stalwarts.

Whether you’re searching for a hole-in-the-wall or a high-end restaurant, these restaurants provide the most outstanding Thai food in San Francisco.

So, whether you’re seeking the best Thai food in San Francisco or the top restaurants in San Francisco to get the best Thai food, we have you covered; read on to get the information.

What Are the Best Thai Food in San Francisco?

San Francisco has the best Thai food prepared and sold in some exotic places in the city.

Before we talk about these exotic places in San Francisco where you can get the best Thai food, let’s look at some best Thai food in San Francisco:

#1. Pad Thai (Stir-Fried Noodles)

This is one meal that varies regionally; it’s not too hot. The classic ingredients are flat rice noodles, seafood (alternatively, chicken, pork, or tofu), dried shrimp, tamarind, fish sauce, bean sprouts, shallots, and eggs.

To prepare this, all these ingredients are stir-fried in a hot wok and plated with roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, and chilis (optional).

Pad Thai embodies the Thai hallmark tastes of sweet, sour, and salty, and the well-balanced texture contrast.

#2. Tom Yum Goong (Hot & Sour Shrimp Soup)

This renowned soup is a spicy, sour, and fragrant tastebud feast and one of Thailand’s most recognizable foods!

The distinctive aromas of this piquant transparent soup, which hails from the central area, are derived from the union of aromatic lemongrass, shallots, fish sauce, galangal, mushrooms, kaffir lime leaves, lime juice, and red chili peppers.

Although shrimp (Goong) is the most widely utilized and considered the tastiest variant, other versions include chicken, fish, or a combination of seafood.

If you find this all too spicy, a softer, sweeter, and wonderful alternative is Thai chicken coconut soup; it has the same magnificent aromas and spices, but the chilies are optional, and the creamy coconut milk tempers the heat.

#3. Kaeng Lueang (Yellow Curry)

Another best Thai food in San Francisco is the Kaeng lueang known as yellow curry. It has a solid southern Thai flavor, with a rich texture and distinctive color from the liberal use of turmeric.

This is pounded with traditional fragrant spices like coriander, cumin, shallots, lemongrass, and galangal.

Coconut milk, carrots, and potatoes are included, as well as chicken or other protein or tofu choices.

Because this curry has fewer chilies, it is less hot than its green and red curry equivalents, making it suited for individuals who want a mellower flavor, including youngsters.

#4. Gaeng Daeng (Red Curry)

One of Thail’s most popular curry variations is the tasty red curries; they are actually spicier than yellow curries but less so than green curries.

Crushed red chilies in the curry paste (a foundation of garlic, shallots, blue ginger, and lemongrass) give this rich, sweet, and fragrant curry its unique red hue.

This crushed red chili is added to coconut milk, vegetables such as eggplant, mushrooms, or tomatoes, and chicken breast pieces.

Finally, the red curry is finished with finely sliced kaffir leaves and sweet basil, creating a wonderfully balanced combination of creamy and spicy broth that will tingle your tongue.

#5. Gaeng Keow Wan Gai (Green Curry)

The spiciest of the Thai “holy trinity” is the green curry. It originated in Central Thailand, island and is the most well-known worldwide.

This trendy meal is focused on aromatic green chilies, which were introduced to Thailand by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century.

These aromatic chilies give the dish its distinguishing green tint and spicy flavor.

Although it’s boiled with coconut milk (which helps to tone things down and creates a rich, sweet flavor), it also contains components seen in many Thai curries (galangal, shallots, lemongrass, kaffir lime, Thai basil, and so on).

11 Restaurants Offering Best Local Thai Food in San Francisco

There are indeed top restaurants in San Francisco that offer top-notch local Thai food. They give you the best when it comes to Thai food.

Well, these restaurants stand out because of their fresh ingredients and genuine Thai food. A wonderful restaurant, however, is more than simply exquisite cuisine; it should have excellent service and a pleasant ambiance.

Interestingly, these Thai restaurants in San Francisco have it all. Check out our list of San Francisco’s greatest Thai eateries below:

1] Marnee Thai Restaurant

If you’re stepping into San Francisco, you really should try Marnie Thai restaurant. Mehn! The Thai meals here will send you back to Thai.

Incredibly, they have multiple locations across the city, so you can easily get one closest to you. This is my local favorite for delicious Thai cuisine.

However, it might interest you to know that their branch at the 9th Avenue location is the most outstanding because of their food preparation style.

Also, it is adjacent to Golden Gate Park and virtually immediately across from the Botanical Garden.

In fact, you might end up with a new favorite, which is eggplant curry and Khao Soy noodle soup. Gosh! It tastes so yummy and is not commonly available in other Thai restaurants.

Another must-try Thai food here is their sticky rice dessert. This one is really delicious.

2] Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine

If you couldn’t locate the Marnee Thai restaurant, Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine should be your next bus stop. It is located at 710 Florida St, San Francisco, CA 94110.

This amazing place is a casual eating establishment with colorful decorations and a celebratory feel. They sell the best pad ka pow and pad char shrimps.

From 2016 through 2019, they were named the “Best Thai Restaurant” in San Francisco by Michelin Bib Gourmand.

They provide nightly specials and serve Northern Thai meals as well as unusual items such as market-fried grasshoppers. Sure, you’re excited to try it the next time you go out for dinner and drinks!

Indeed, It’s ideal for parties looking for authentic Northern Thai cuisine, friendly service, and a louder dining experience. You can make your reservation here.

3] Lers Ros Thai

Lers Ros Thai delivers outstanding Thai food in a pleasant setting. This place is a must-try if you’re seeking a more premium Thai dining experience.

And, yes, they’ve got multiple locations in the city. However, you can locate them at Larkin Street, which is approximately 5 streets away and directly around the corner from the Great American Music Hall.

Trust me; you will fall in love with the crab puff appetizers. And the Tom Yum soup, Whooh! This one has a shockingly acidic, sour flavor that is both unusual and distinctive in a yummy way!

However, this restaurant is open for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and supper from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. On weekends, they may become packed, so make a reservation ahead of time. You can do it here.

4] Basil Thai Restaurant & Bar

Basil Thai Restaurant and Bar offers some of the greatest Thai cuisines in town. The beautiful decor here will trap you into a journey of no return.

Of course, they sell the best Thai food in Houston. Their stuffed eggplant and short rib curry are great, and their rates are reasonably fair. Also, some of their portions are rather large, such as the braised oxtails.

Their service is nice, courteous, and quick, and it is really refreshing to relax here. To try them out, locate them at 1175 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94103, or contact them at 415-552-8999.

If you consider this a bit stressful, reserve a spot here.

5] Ben Thai Cafe

Another top San Francisco Thai restaurant that prepares the best Thai food is the ben Thai cafe. It’s a simple hole-in-the-wall restaurant with a stylish interior design that doesn’t appear like much.

Truly, they provide home-cooked Thai cuisine with Indonesian and Chinese influences. Their pad sees ew, and Tom Kha soup is so tasty and will remind you of home.

However, they are more aware of gluten sensitivities and celiac disease and are more cautious about cross-contamination than other restaurants.

For the best time to visit this place, they are open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. They are open till 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

They are located in Lower Nob Hill, about three blocks from Lafayette Park at Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109. Make a reservation here or contact them at 415-771-2562 1331.

6] House of Thai

House of Thai is another great restaurant in Lower Nob Hill. It is situated at 901 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109.

With over 100 meals to pick from, the menu at first can be daunting, but it is delicious. Their pad sees ew had precisely the right smokey taste blended with spices.

So, you have to be cautious about how much spice you want, as their spiciness levels are not to be taken lightly!

This restaurant is a fantastic informal option for large gatherings. They are open from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m., unlike other Thai eateries. You can contact them at 415-441-2248 or make a reservation here.

7] Blackwood

Blackwood is one of the few Thai restaurants open for breakfast and brunch in the Marina District, just a few steps from the ocean.

This trendy eatery provides Thai-American fusion cuisine for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and supper. You can decide to start with their amazing pumpkin fries.

We strongly recommend the Asian papaya salad and pad kee mow here! However, the cuisine here is very difficult to select from. Why? Cos, the Thai meals here are extremely delicious.

You can locate them at San Francisco, CA 94123, 2150 Chestnut St, from Monday through Friday, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. they have happy hour.

While visiting here, you can bring a squad of friends because there’s plenty of seating both inside and out. Make your reservations here or call 415-931-9663.

8] Jitlada Thai Cuisine

Jitlada Thai Cuisine is located at Bush and Sutter in Lower Pacific Heights, Japantown. It’s a neighborhood mom-and-pop store that’s well worth a visit.

Their vegetarian puff pastry is wonderful and slightly sweet. One of the favorite dishes here, attested by young folks, is the pumpkin curry.

However, this little eatery is a terrific informal option for a quick bite or to grab and go. It doesn’t appear to be very busy, although reservations are always available during peak dinner hours.

You can call them at 415-292-9027 or visit them at 1826 Buchanan St, San Francisco, CA 94115.

9] Khan Toke Thai House

Khan Toke Thai House, located at the intersection of 24th and 23rd in Central Richmond, provides an authentic cultural eating experience.

A visit here will have you remove your shoes and sit on couches before proceeding to their table.

Indeed, their pineapple fried rice and pad thai are both tasty, but you might have a new favorite dish after tasting their fried banana; it is both flavorful and delicious.

You might want to know that Khan Toke Thai House closes on Mondays. However, they are open from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. the rest of the week.

They occasionally close for holidays, so check their website to ensure they are open.

10] King of Thai Noodle House

If you’re searching for a late-night Thai eatery, check out King of Thai Noodle House near Union Square.

Though it is more expensive than other restaurants, it serves enormous quantities ideal for larger groups. Their coconut and duck noodle soup are delicious, and your buddy will love the tofu dishes they serve.

They are open from Monday through Thursday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. They are also open till 12:45 a.m. on Friday and Saturday! After a late night out, it’s well worth stopping here for a snack.

11] Thai Idea Vegetarian

Thai Idea Vegetarian, located at the intersection of Willow and Polk, is a quiet spot with delicious vegetarian alternatives just a few steps from the Asian Art Museum and City Hall.

Golden cauliflower and pumpkin curry are the favorite meals here for Thai folks. Their service is courteous and prompt.

Their fried banana with ice cream dessert is delicious and certainly worth getting again.

It’s ideal for a casual lunch during the day and a beautiful nighttime dating spot or a somewhat more sophisticated group adventure in the evening.

Conclusion

Having gone through some best Thai food in San Francisco and where to get them. So, what’s next?

Guess it’s to Kick-start your Thai food journey. Well, if you need more clarification on where to get them, do well by dropping your queries in the comment section.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Food in San Francisco

What is the most favorite Thai food?

Some favorite Thai food is:

Gaeng Daeng (Red Curry)
Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup) The quintessential Thai aroma!
Tom Kha Kai (Chicken in Coconut Soup)
Pad Krapow Moo Saap (Fried Basil and Pork)
Som Tum (Spicy Green Papaya Salad)
Pad Thai (Thai-style Fried Noodles)
Khao Pad (Fried Rice)

What is the most popular Thai food in America?

Pad Thai, Tom Kha Khai, and Thai Fried Rice are America’s most popular Thai cuisine.

These recipes not only taste delicious, but they also give you a warm and homey sensation. Different varieties of Thai curry are also popular in the United States, allowing you to try a new meal every day of the week.

What is Napa in Thai food?

Another good vegetable in Thai cookery is napa cabbage. It may be eaten raw or dipped in a variety of sauces. It may also be used to make a delicious soup. You may store napa cabbage in the refrigerator for several weeks.

Is San Francisco known for good food?

San Francisco is known for its restaurants and cuisine trends just as much as for its Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars.

Abalone, Dungeness crab, sand dabs, bay shrimp, and crusty sourdough French bread are among the distinctive or locally typical cuisine to try in San Francisco. Joe’s Special is available at several local eateries.

What Thai food should I try first?

Fat or thick noodles and curries are the most excellent Thai cuisine recommendations for beginner Thai food consumers. Choose from salads, veggie dishes, and rice.

If this is your first time eating Thai, start with a simple Thai curry sauce, perhaps yellow, and make sure it has a coconut base, whatever you select.

What’s a famous Thai dish?

Pad Thai is one of Thailand’s best-known meals. In a blistering hot wok, fistfuls of tiny, thin, or broad noodles are stir-fried with crisp beansprouts, onion, and egg.

Condiments such as fish sauce, dried shrimp, garlic or shallots, red chili, and palm sugar are also used to flavor the meal.

What is the most favorite Thai food?

Some favorite Thai food is:

Gaeng Daeng (Red Curry)
Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup) The quintessential Thai aroma!
Tom Kha Kai (Chicken in Coconut Soup)
Pad Krapow Moo Saap (Fried Basil and Pork)
Som Tum (Spicy Green Papaya Salad)
Pad Thai (Thai-style Fried Noodles)
Khao Pad (Fried Rice)

What is the most popular Thai food in America?

Pad Thai, Tom Kha Khai, and Thai Fried Rice are America’s most popular Thai cuisine.

What is Napa in Thai food?

Another useful vegetable in Thai cookery is napa cabbage. It may be eaten raw or dipped in a variety of sauces. It may also be used to make a delicious soup. You may store napa cabbage in the refrigerator for several weeks.

Is San Francisco known for good food?

San Francisco is known for its restaurants and cuisine trends just as much as it is for its Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars.

What Thai food should I try first?

Fat or thick noodles and curries are the greatest Thai cuisine recommendations for beginner Thai food consumers. Choose from salads, veggie dishes, and rice.

If this is your first time eating Thai, start with a simple Thai curry sauce, perhaps yellow, and make sure it has a coconut base, whatever you select.

What's a famous Thai dish?

Pad Thai is one of Thailand’s best-known meals. In a blistering hot wok, fistfuls of tiny, thin, or broad noodles are stir-fried with crisp beansprouts, onion, and egg.

Condiments such as fish sauce, dried shrimp, garlic or shallots, red chili, and palm sugar are also used to flavor the meal.