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ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gems Thai in Santa Monica
Best Cheap Eats Thai in Santa Monica
Best Thai in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Bangkok West Thai
8.2
This intimate Thai restaurant brings authentic flavors from Thailand with Chef Wasana Pisaikun's traditional recipes served in an elegantly decorated space with crystal chandeliers. The menu balances familiar favorites like pad thai with more adventurous fusion dishes and house specialties.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yellow Curry with Coconut Milk, Pad Thai Bangkok Roll, Emperor Duck Rolls
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Authentic Thai chef creating traditional dishes in an upscale intimate setting
Who should go: Couples and groups seeking elevated Thai
When to visit: Dinner service from 4pm-10pm daily
What to order: Yellow curry, pad thai, emperor duck rolls
Insider tip: Make reservations for weekend dinners
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Colorado Ave, metered until 8pm ($2/hr), small lot behind building fills quickly after 6pm
Dress code: Smart casual recommended, nice jeans fine but lean toward date-night attire given the crystal chandelier ambiance
Noise level: Intimate and conversation-friendly - perfect for dates, gets moderately buzzy when full
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation, they don't take walk-ins after 7:30pm Fri/Sat
Weekday lunch: No lunch service - dinner only from 4pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 8+ options including veggie pad thai, tofu curries, and papaya salad
Vegan options: Yes with modifications - ask for no fish sauce, they're accommodating
Gluten-free options: Limited but doable - curries and rice dishes safe, skip the soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - intimate lighting, not too loud, shareable plates, and upscale enough to impress without being stuffy. The $$$ price point shows effort without breaking the bank.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights before 6:30pm usually ok, but weekend walk-ins face long waits. They keep 3-4 bar seats for walk-ins that turn quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for ages 10+ given the upscale intimate vibe. No kids menu, but they'll do mild versions of pad thai and fried rice. Not ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: More authentic and refined than Night + Market, better date atmosphere than Jitlada, chef-driven specials you won't find at chain Thai spots
Skip if: You want cheap Thai takeout (try Sawtelle), need quick lunch, or bringing young kids (Farmshop nearby is better)
Hours
Monday4pm - 9pm
Tuesday4pm - 9pm
Wednesday4pm - 9pm
Thursday4pm - 9pm
Friday4pm - 9pm
Saturday4pm - 9pm
Sunday4pm - 9pm