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ZipPicks Awards
Best Hidden Gems Thai in Pasadena
Best Cheap Eats Thai in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Chao Doi Thai Restaurant
7.8
Authentic neighborhood Thai spot specializes in grilled meats and seafood with standout dishes like sizzling BBQ pork and salmon in pineapple sauce. The chefs use traditional techniques to deliver consistent quality that keeps locals returning.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sizzling BBQ Beef, Salmon in Pineapple Sauce, Panang Curry
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Specializes in grilled Thai BBQ rarely found elsewhere
Who should go: BBQ lovers seeking Thai flavors
When to visit: Dinner for fresh-grilled specialties
What to order: BBQ chicken, grilled pork, salmon steak panang
Insider tip: Order the sizzling platters for theatrical presentation
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind restaurant plus street parking on Los Robles, rarely full even at peak times
Dress code: Casual - come as you are, locals dine in everything from workout clothes to business casual
Noise level: Moderate - lively but conversation-friendly, families and dates coexist comfortably
Weekend wait: 15-30 min for walk-ins, call-ahead recommended for groups over 4
Weekday lunch: No wait, seats immediately available
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - tofu substitutions available for most dishes, dedicated veggie section
Vegan options: Limited - can modify curries without fish sauce upon request
Gluten-free options: Some options - rice noodles and most curries safe, inform server about soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - the sizzling platters create natural conversation starters, lighting is warm but not too dim, and the moderate noise level allows easy conversation without awkward silences
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weeknights, expect 15-30 minute wait on weekends. Bar seating often available immediately for parties of 2
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, kids love the sizzling presentations, mild options available, and staff is patient with families. Best before 7pm when it's less crowded
Best For
Better for: Grilled meats you won't find at typical Thai spots - their BBQ technique and marinades are unmatched in the area, plus theatrical sizzling platters add excitement
Skip if: You want upscale ambiance or extensive cocktail menu - choose Saladang for date night polish or prefer strictly vegetarian Thai cuisine
Hours
Monday11:30am - 9:30pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9:30pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9:30pm
Thursday11:30am - 9:30pm
Friday11:30am - 9:30pm
Saturday11:30am - 9:30pm
Sunday11:30am - 9:30pm