Bahn Thai

211

1410

8261

6 years ago

A SAN DIEGO INSTITUTION. Located in the heart of University Heights off Park Blvd, Banh Thai is serving up some of the best Thai food around. Period. Chances are if you ask your friends where their favorite Thai food spot is, they will respond with Bahn Thai. First off, parking can be hit-or-miss in the area and there are just a handful of indoor/outdoor seats in this storefront. Yet people will wait in line and do whatever it takes to indulge. Why? It's so freakin' delicious. No matter what you ordered, it's made with love and will have explosive flavors. The ingredients are high quality and fresh, while the preparation is simply perfect. I recommend you order whatever you'd normally order at a Thai restaurant: noodle, curry, stir-fry--you can't go wrong. Last step: don't forget to douse it with their homemade chili oil. Simply divine. read more

Bahn Thai - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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A A.

4 years ago

Best thai restaurant in this area. Always eat here. And the crab rangoons are made with garlic, butter and cheese... never had them like that before.... soooo good. I got the lemongrass chicken and its made just the way i like it. Every place makes it different but this place its makes with perfection and the right sauce lol. Sweet employees. Highly reccomend 11/10 PSA... if you're saying this restaurant was nasty its because you dont know how to order thai food. Stop always ordering pad thai. I feel thats a cop out. Thats means you arent ordering the right dishes. As a huge thai fanatic, I reccomend "newbs" try panang curry(trust me, if you hate typical curry you'll like this instead.) I also reccomend garlic and pepper chicken or what ever meat/no meat you like. And i reccomend the lemongrass at this restaurant if you like that mild chillie spicy flavor. Also get the rangoons here if you like cream cheese and crab... trust me! They are sooo damn good lol read more

Bahn Thai - Lemongrass chicken... sooo damn good. I crave it all the time lol - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Ruby B.

3 years ago

The food here is top notch. Tasty and fresh - even for the Tom Ka soup I tried. You get to choose your spice level, beware the spice can get very hot!! Love that the menu has clear dietary labels. The service is good for a counter service restaurant. They focus on take out and have a handful of chairs outside. I do wish they would use more sustainable packaging, at least some of it was recyclable. The atmosphere was good for a street cafe, with plants and heaters outside. Unfortunately, their next door neighbor blasts a news podcast through a loud speaker right next to their patio. Please don't let that deter you, Ban Thai is zoned for a restaurant and the restaurant noise wasn't loud - the neighbors are just vindictive. Hopefully the city can resolve it. Overall, I will visit again. 5 stars for the food!! read more

Bahn Thai - Menu 3/2023 - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Vegetable Tom Ka - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Freddie E.

2 years ago

Some of the best Thai food I've had. We get take out at least every other week. Portions are big enough for leftovers the next day. Some of my favorites are the Panang curry, papaya salad, crab fried rice, and of course pad Thai. Be prepared to wait, and better yet call ahead. I've never been there without a 20 to 40 minute wait, which is a good sign! read more

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Vic J.

Elite 25

115

140

3 years ago

love this place - amazing food and great menu options. one thing it lacks is the dining space! only outdoor dining available, so seating can be a challenge. their calamari is sooo crispy and juicy! it's a must order at this place. the papaya salad was refreshing and had lots of flavor. the workers are very kind and efficient, so that's lovely! food - 9/10 customer service - 8/10 read more

Bahn Thai - calamari - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Kathleen C.

139

3 years ago

Favorite Thai place! Only place I'll get Thai basil eggplant, no other place comes close! It's a small spot, definitely recommend calling ahead and taking it to-go. read more

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Samuel L.

1 year ago

Authentic Thai taste for take out! Food portion is good and price is reasonable. Cons is only outdoor tables are available and parking spot was a bit hard to find. read more

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Caity C.

247

3 years ago

Absolutely love Bahn Thai! I honestly feel like it's the best Thai food I've ever had outside of Thailand. So fresh, so delicious and the people here are always incredibly friendly! I have a gluten and dairy allergy and almost their entire menu can be made gluten free, and the Thai tea can be made vegan! I DO NOThave celiacs though, so I cannot speak to that level of sensitivity. I come here literally once a week since it's so easy to get take out food here. If I'm in a pinch, I'll pick up to-go and bring it for work the next day. Everyone I've brought here has loved it. They don't have a ton of seating, since all of the seating is outdoors so usually I have to pick it up and bring it home, but if you are lucky enough to snag a seat, their food is even better if you can eat it right away when it's fresh! Obsessed with their pad Thai, yellow or panang curry, their drunken noodles, crab fried rice, firecracker chicken.. honestly I don't think you can go wrong with any of the food here. 10/10 recommend. read more

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Paul C.

146

431

2612

4 years ago

This is some great authentic thai food. We searched Yelp and this place doesn't disappoint. Everything we ordered was spot on. The portions are generous, and the pricing is very reasonable. Look for street parking and walk over. There are only a few tables outside so grab one as soon as you can. read more

Bahn Thai - Thai iced tea - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Fried calamari - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Roast duck curry - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Crab fried rice - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Chicken wings - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Liliana P.

2 years ago

Good food I like it that ur able to choose what u want but there is different flavors

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Helen T.

156

244

2 years ago

Got the satay and the drunken noodle (mild). My biggest gripe is why is the colorlessness of drunken noodles. As expected from the whiteness, it was also bland. Just felt like salt and flat rice noodle fried together. Extremely disappointing. Meat was also less than what I usually see from Thai restaurants. Satay was okay, chicken was a tad oversalted. Peanut sauce was good. There's free parking places nearby, but the store is catered for takeouts, not for dine-in. The only tables are outside. Went on a rainy day, and it was not a good day to be eating not delicious food. read more

Bahn Thai - Drunken Noodle - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Audrey N.

249

2 years ago

Service was nice when ordering over the phone. I had an order of 5 entrees, a dessert, and a drink. They ensured I got my order correct and the food came out in a decent amount of time. Very quick! I put it in an insulated bag and it was still hot and fresh to eat an hour after picking it up. I didn't dine in but I saw the space was very quaint and tidy. Definitely seemed geared towards takeout orders but are considerate to provide dining space. The order was to bring to a friend so I only had 1 entree and the drink for myself. Thai tea was yummy but a little watery like the ice melted in it before I picked it up. I was 5 minutes behind on pick up time. I ordered mild yellow curry. Good portions and rice is included. Flavor was a little lacking and no spice at all but they provided hot sauce. Next time I'll order medium spice. Overall was good for a Thai food craving! read more

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Kiki H.

Elite 26 All-Star

1369

1225

3 years ago

First time trying this place that everyone raves about and I have mixed feelings. I had the sautéed basil eggplant with chicken. The eggplant was delicious. Very flavorful, fresh, and well cooked. The chicken was not the best quality. What really threw me off was how sweet this dish was! Maybe I just picked the wrong item? Next time I'd try the pad Thai. read more

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Kiana L.

3 years ago

Best Thai Food in SD, hands down! I love that they clearly label their menu for gluten free and Vegan accommodations! I've tried their pad see ew, pad Thai, and Tom kha and everything that comes out of this place is pure fire. This storefront is pretty small, and catered to takeout meals, with no seating inside. Parking can be pretty hard to find in this area so I recommend calling ahead for your food and picking it up! They can get pretty busy. read more

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Laura A.

2 years ago

Food is crazy good, I've had their yellow curry with veggies and also their rice (all of them) the service is great and pretty fast. It's kind of a small place and there's only outdoor seating so the tables are usually taken up, I just order to go. read more

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Dani S.

961

3661

8051

7 years ago

Food is delicious, small portion sizes and everything comes on a paper disposable plate. No ambience or service. Came here one night for grub and ordered 2 items off the menu, most of the dishes are $10 each, reasonable for this area. The restaurant is very small and the tables are all crammed together. We got a tiny table on the outside patio. The whole place is not very clean. Oh well. The food came out pretty fast and came on these paper one time use plates. A bit like ghetto fast food. The flavor was good but definitely not authentic Thai food. Portion size is also a bit small compared to other Thai restaurants. No service at all, they basically just take your order and bring you food and that's all. Overall good for this area but there are definitely better Thai restaurants in other parts of San Diego. read more

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Terrence S.

Elite 26 All-Star

694

480

1044

4 years ago

This is one of the best places for Thai food in San Diego in my opinion. Everyone raves about the yellow curry, and that is definitely one of the best dishes here. I also really love the green curry with the coconut and basil mix. The curry is so full of flavor whether it's non-spicy option or the extra spicy, and tastes great by itself, and tastes great mixed with rice. In terms of the noodles, of course the pad thai and the pad see ew are super solid. The noodles are not dry when eaten as take out or even as leftovers the next day. The crab fried rice is also solid. No matter what dish you order, the portion sizes are very generous and often lasts me two meals! I'd say definitely worth the price. When I go to any other Thai place around, I'm always comparing to this place. I'm already a repeat customer and will continue to be one for as long as I'm living around this area! read more

Bahn Thai - Green Curry - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Sam M.

1 year ago

This little hole-in-the-wall restaurant serves delicious food! I love their Pad See Ew - the noodles are super flavorful. One of my go-to spots when I visit San Diego. read more

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Teresa Y.

3 years ago

All orders at this location are prepared as take out. There is no dining inside the restaurant but there are a few tables set up outside (with heaters, when colder). We ordered two noodle dishes and one curry entree. Our order was ready within 15 minutes. All were delicious and flavorful. However, I did ask for "hot" for my spice level (2nd spicest level on their scale) and it was very mild. I opted to use the little container of chili oil. Definitely recommend if you are in the area. Food: 9/10 Service: 10/10 Ambiance: 7/10 Price Point: $ read more

Bahn Thai - Massaman Curry - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Pad See Ew - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Drunken Noodles - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Abigail A.

3 years ago

This place is so good, and even sell their own oily chili sauce which we bought. Good portion sizes. read more

Bahn Thai - Noodles...curry chicken...lemongrass chicken and steamed rice in the photo - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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David C.

2 years ago

Best Pad See Ew I've ever had. I definitely will recommend this place. Their Thai tea is also amazing! Only thing I can complain about is the limited seating. read more

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Kayla A.

1 year ago

I have been going to Bahn Thai for years. The food has always been delicious. I love the yellow curry and Pad See Ew but all food is good. Since the location is small, pick-up is a must and they have two cashier so speed up the process. Food stay hot when you are running late or walking home. A local favorite! read more

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Annette T.

374

289

1578

7 years ago

There's a reason why it's rated 4 1/2 stars with over 2,000 reviews because it's that good! When I'm visiting my relatives in San Diego, the first stop I make (and no joke) is to Bahn Thai. This joint is located in the heart of University Heights and there's limited parking, so be prepared to drive in circles to find a spot or park further away and walk. I usually order the following: 1. Chicken Pad Thai with extra sauce 2. Crab Rangoons 3. Thai Milk Tea (with no ice) This place delivers on quality and customer service each time. Come here and you won't be disappointed! read more

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Jay D.

1 year ago

Best in town. Love the owners and the food. They all are great!!! Pad see yew is the absolute best!

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Ethan F.

179

3 years ago

Great meal, the meat could've been more flavorful but the portion sizes were good. Wish the duck was a little bit crispier.

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Rong W.

2 years ago

so nice! good taste! I enjoyed it with my friend. it is quite. and we have a happy time there.

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Edlyn W.

175

196

353

7 years ago

Hands down my favorite thai food place in SD. Im pretty sure I've been here over 10 times and it truly never disappoints. Their food is consistently delicious and I never miss a beat to come here when I'm down in SD. (I'm from LA) Since I know theres a lot of confusion on how ordering and seating works here, let me break it down for you. First come first serve basis. Wait in line to order your food at the cash register. If you havent already found a table, they will give you a stub to turn in once you find a seat, that way your food is guaranteed to be served fresh and hot. I love pad thai. Yes it's basic, I'm aware. But seriously, I have yet to find a place that makes pad thai like Bahn Thai. Everything from the noodles to the toppings to the flavor. It's perfect. Noodles are always cooked to the perfect bouncy texture and balance of sweet and spicy flavor. With a squeeze of lime juice and crushed peanuts, I'm drooling as I'm typing this. Panang curry is my boyfriend's favorite. It's a peanut flavored curry. So good and creamy, and it comes with a bowl of jasmine or brown rice. Chicken satay is soft and not stringy!! Good flavor! Drunken noodles, mango sticky rice, spring rolls, thai basil chicken. Nothing disappoints. Major advice: by total accident, i accidentally ordered extra spicy one time...Thai people do not fuck with their spice so i am warning you!! Expect to wait, or call in to order. But food and service is impeccable. Worth every minute of your time. read more

Bahn Thai - Pad thai, panang curry, and chicken satay - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Sweet mango rice - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Pad thai, drunken noodle, sweet mango rice - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Shravani P.

3 years ago

Bahn Thai is just a small takeout-based restaurant with a few tables outside to sit at. The vegan drunken noodles were alright--I wish they had been more saucy. However, this was the best vegan pad Thai I have had in San Diego so far! Service was so quick even when we went at the peak of dinner rush. read more

Bahn Thai - Restaurant front - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Pad Thai (vegan) and drunken noodles (vegan) - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Vivian L.

476

338

1283

5 years ago

Wanted some takeout and Thai food seemed like a great option while staying in. This spot has fast service and is definitely a takeout joint as reviewers highlighted. Ordered their eggplant basil in medium with tofu, and also a pad see ew with tofu, mild. They provided us their house made chili oil which has a sweet aftertaste - a bit different from others I've tried but I like it! Wish I asked for Sriracha or Thai chili paste too, but otherwise it was only a 15 min wait time for pick up and the employees are friendly, food was flavorful and hot and no bad qualms at all. Def can see why it's a local area favorite! read more

Bahn Thai - Pad See Ew with Tofu - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Eggplant Basil with Tofu - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Aaron D.

3 years ago

Great food (slightly pricier than some might expect but you pay for quality). Be forewarned that the space is tiny but they Do an amazing job of turning out meals and really capitalizing on the space available. Well seasoned food and the spices hit just right. Even my picky Jamaican colleagues were happy with the level of seasoning so your tastebuds will feel happy too. read more

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Peter T.

3 years ago

I just ordered Padthai, Testing is like original That incredible Manu I never miss it when I visit Thai restaurant I love it so much read more

Bahn Thai - Padthai - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - OPEN Hours - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Ken A.

149

253

1637

7 years ago

Came back from a trip hung over and was craving something spicy and full of carb. So Thai delivery it is! I heard about Bahn Thai from my bud and decided to give it a try. On this splurge remedy... Rangoon = These are awesome! Creamy garlicky crispy. Tom Ka Soup = Tasty! Crab Fried Rice = Was good fell a little short on flavor and the crab was overly flaked. Pad Thai Chicken = Full of flavor and delish! Pad See Eew Pork = Fantastic! Smokey and super tasty! Bahn Thai will defiantly be in my weekend rotations moving forward. Welp! Onto the next... read more

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June N.

3 years ago

The food is delicious and very authentic. I have been to Thailand before and these tasted similar to the ones I have in Thai, salty and very spicy. They were super generous with shrimp, big and very juicy shrimp. The pad Thai my bf ordered was also delicious. However, be careful with spicy level, we ordered mild but it was very spicy lol read more

Bahn Thai - Drunken noodles with shrimp - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

Bahn Thai - Pad Thai with beef - Thai Near Me - San Diego, California

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Frank B.

Elite 25

137

2 years ago

I almost forgot to review this place, one of my go to for Thai food. The customer service is always great, people are always friendly and also I've never gotten a wrong item for to go orders here. Pad Thai, Panang and Yellow curry, crab fried rice, drunken noodles are all very good! Place is small but clean, as far as Thai food goes? It'll be hard to top this one! read more

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Saleen M.

1065

2586

2310

5 years ago

I think I should have ate at the restaurant instead of ordering to go because several people have stated that this is their favorite Thai restaurant in San Diego. Unfortunately, with to go, I did not feel the same. Drunken Noodle: This dish lacked flavor. Very bland. But they were generous with the chicken. Crab Rangoon: Delicious & crispy. Enjoyed the Housemade Plum Sauce. Thai Iced Tea: Sweet & creamy. read more

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Ryan C.

684

3 years ago

This is hands down my favorite Thai place in San Diego so far. I moved here a year ago and have been trying all my local restaurants and this is definitely one of my local favorites for sure. I love the pad Thai spicy with shrimp and also the eggplant dish was really good. It's pretty busy so when they say 20 minutes, go in 30 to save waiting time for yourself. There's isn't much around other than bars unless you want to grab a Drink before. read more

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OG R.

595

400

983

4 years ago

Cute little Thai restaurant. You order food for to go and you can sit on the tables set up outside. I was quite disappointed with the food though. I guess I hyped it up too much since there are over 7k reviews online. My partner thinks they have the best Satae he's ever had. Yellow curry was alright. Fried rice was ok. read more

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Stanley P.

2 years ago

Very clean taste and delicious ! New favorite Thai spot !! Although the chili paste is very spicy so order mild if you do not want too spicy ! read more

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Michelle L.

261

531

5 years ago

I've been to bahn thai quite a few times and I can't believe I've never gotten around to writing a review. Hands down my FAVORITE Thai restaurant ever. My favorite is the beef pad see ew, it's pretty saucy which is just how I like it, and combined with the chili oil, is *chef's kiss*!! The portions are decently sized, usually I can save a portion of it for leftovers and it's still good even the next day after heated up. I've tried the chicken panang curry as well and wow the rice was just so soft and complimented the curry so well. The curry was delicious even though I've never been a huge curry person in the past. I honestly feel like bahn thai changed my perspective on curry I've introduced quite a few friends to bahn thai after being told about it myself a few years ago and everyone has always enjoyed it!! Great option to take friends who are vegan/vegetarian as well. The only downside is that there is limited seating but I'm usually fine with taking it to go. Just be sure to call ahead to place your order!! read more

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Page 9 of 87

4646 Park Blvd
Ste 3
San Diego, CA 92116
University Heights
Directions
(619) 299-6363
Call Now
Visit Website
http://bahnthai.net

Full menu

Hours

What time does Bahn Thai open?

Bahn Thai opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Bahn Thai opens at 4:00 PM on Sunday.

What time does Bahn Thai close?

Bahn Thai closes at 10:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Bahn Thai closes at 11:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu 11:00 AM - 10:00 PMFri-Sat 11:00 AM - 11:00 PMSun 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Bahn Thai take Bitcoin?

No, Bahn Thai does not take Bitcoin.

Does Bahn Thai take credit cards?

Yes, Bahn Thai takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Bahn Thai have catering options?

Yes, Bahn Thai does have catering options.

Does Bahn Thai have a drive thru?

No, Bahn Thai does not have a drive thru.

Does Bahn Thai have a happy hour?

No, Bahn Thai does not have a happy hour.

Does Bahn Thai serve alcohol?

No, Bahn Thai does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Bahn Thai allow dogs?

Yes, Bahn Thai allows dogs.

Does Bahn Thai have TVs?

No, Bahn Thai does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Bahn Thai have bike parking?

Yes, Bahn Thai has bike parking.

Does Bahn Thai have outdoor seating?

Yes, Bahn Thai has outdoor seating options.

Does Bahn Thai have parking?

Yes, Bahn Thai has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Bahn Thai wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Bahn Thai is wheelchair accessible.

Does Bahn Thai have free WiFi?

No, Bahn Thai does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

History

Established in 2011.

"Bahn" meaning home, is the feeling we want all of our customers to have when they come to our family owned and operated restaurant. We are a Thai restaurant that offers takeout and catering . Serving fresh and flavorful authentic Thai dishes.

More Info

Health Score

Bahn Thai Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Bahn Thai

Can I bring my dog?

Yes! They have outdoor seating and I've seen plenty of dogs there.

View 3 more answers

Which items can be made gluten-free and vegan?

Thank you Tracy for your question. Please refer to the menus on our website which have the corresponding items labeled. Menu link (https://www.bahnthai.net/bahnthaimenu). Have a wonderful day.

Is lunch and dinner menu separate?

Thank you for your question. It is the same menu. It can be found here https://www.bahnthai.net/bahnthaimenu.

Do you use MSG to prepare your dishes?

Great news! We do not add MSG to our dishes. For more FAQ's please visit https://www.bahnthai.net/faqs. Thank you.

Is there any way to get delivery?

Hello Alex, thank you for your question. We are not providing delivery at this time however our Hillcrest location does offer online ordering for pickup https://www.bahnthai.net/order.

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

It seems they aren't doing delivery apps anymore. Anyone else have this experience?

Is there any Parking close, don't mind walking but is there much parking in the neighborhood?

It's mainly metered street parking .

View 3 more answers

Can we get a bigger location?

I saw a location in Hillcrest. I wonder if it's the same owners? I'd love it since o can never enjoy my food there since it's so small 😭

View 4 more answers

Does the curry contain gluten?

I just asked and they said the curries are gluten-free and soy-free

View 1 more answer

How do I get Bahn Thai delivered? Are they on any apps?

We ordered online through postmates and they delivered it to us.

What is wrong with their phone?

I think they only have one line. If it's busy just keep trying.

View 3 more answers

View All 12 Questions

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Koon Thai Kitchen

I don't usually leave reviews, but I wanted to share my experience dining here with my family…read more The evening started off great. The staff was friendly when we arrived, we were seated quickly, received our drinks promptly, and our food came out fast. The music was enjoyable, the ambiance was nice, and the restaurant had a modern, welcoming feel. Most importantly, the food was excellent. Everything we ordered was delicious, and my kids couldn't stop talking about the crispy pork belly. Honestly, the food itself was 5-star quality. The issue was what happened as the restaurant approached closing time. About 10-15 minutes after we started eating, a staff member brought our check and asked us to pay even though we were still waiting on two mango sticky rice desserts that had not yet been served. I politely explained that we hadn't received all of our food yet, so it didn't make sense to close out the bill. The desserts were brought out shortly afterward. A different employee then returned and again asked us to close out the check, assuring us that we could continue eating while they finished closing. Although I was hesitant, I paid and explained that I would leave a cash tip after we finished since we were still dining. Unfortunately, from that point on, the service noticeably changed. No one checked on our table, our water glasses were never refilled, and the staff seemed focused on cleaning around us. The booth behind us was being cleaned very loudly while we were still trying to enjoy our meal. It made us feel rushed and unwelcome, and honestly took away from an otherwise great dinner. When I asked for containers for our leftovers, the interaction felt cold and standoffish compared to the friendly service we received earlier in the evening. My suggestion would be that if the restaurant is close to closing and doesn't want guests dining in, they should clearly communicate that and switch to takeout only. The food was genuinely delicious, and I would come back again--but not near closing time. Great food, disappointing end to the evening.

The food was great. Sofia provided an superb service…read more Amazing! The restaurant was clean. Its location is good.

Beautiful interior wonderful staff

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Sovereign Modern Thai Cuisine

Came here on a Saturday for a late lunch. We had made a reservation for 4 and were sat right away,…read moreit was not busy. Parking will be mostly street spots. We were lucky and were able to grab the spot right out front. For drinks we each ordered a cocktail. It did take a bit for them to come out but once they did you can tell time and effort were put into making them. They were beautiful and all tasted great. We ordered 4 dishes to share, the wasabi scallop ceviche, crispy baby crab, braised beef panang, and crab fried rice. The ceviche was definitely one of my favorites. Super flavorful, fresh, with the perfect amount of wasabi. The crispy baby crab was savory and easy to eat, especially since you're eating the whole crab, shell and all. The curry in the braised beef panang was so addicting, I couldn't stop eating it. The crab fried rice was tasty and filling. For dessert we got the mango sticky rice. The mangoes were fresh and sweet. Overall pretty standard but still yummy. Service was friendly, helpful and attentive. All the food came out in the timely manner. The vibe of the restaurant is casual but can be a little dressy for a nice date. Overall I definitely recommend a try here. Beautiful presentation with all the food and drinks while still being delicious.

Came here to celebrate a birthday, and the experience was phenomenal. We ordered 3 appetizers and…read morean entree to share among ourselves. We got the Taro Fritters, Bangkok street noodles, pork sausage, and the chicken wings. The highlight of the dinner were the chicken wings!! They were so flavorful and crispy, I cannot recommend them enough. The taro fritters were a close second, the tamarind sauce was also a highlight of my dinner experience. Service was quick + amiable, and the inside of Sovereign was clean and inviting. The decor is dark and moody, with live plants throughout the establishment. Parking is metered & limited, but definitely worth the hassle.

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Supannee House Of Thai By Suree

Amazing. No notes. Go here if you have taste buds…read more Food: 4.75/5 I've been here a number of times before, and the food is always beautifully presented AND super yum. The star of the show is the Nam Kao Tod. If you like Pad Thai/Papaya Salad and you like Thai food at all, your taste buds are primed and ready for Nam Kao Tod. I swear it. The Pad Thai and Tum Woonsen were a little too tangy this time that I went. This place takes the cake for my favorite SD Thai restaurant. Service: 4/5 My water cup was never empty. The service here is great! Everyone is sweet and accommodating. Special requests are welcomed and honored. Atmosphere: 4.75/5 There is so much natural light here! It is a clean restaurant with a clean bathroom, and the music is not offensively loud. I would recommend this place for your favorite SD Thai restaurant pick. Final rating: 4.5/5 (rounding up to 5 on Yelp)

The food was amazing! The sampler was an explosion of flavors and textures--every bite was…read moredelicious and offered something different. The mango sticky rice was the perfect dessert: sweet, well-balanced, and absolutely satisfying. The service was friendly, though it could have been a little more attentive at times. Overall, the incredible food made the experience well worth it, and I'd definitely come back!

Grapow Beef & Nam Kao Tod & Thai Tea Lemonades 8/30/25

Valentines decorations

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Hawaiian fried rice

Mekong Cuisine Lao and Thai

Women-owned & operated

Kid friendly

Our first visit to Mekong Lao & Thai was fantastic, and we're already planning our next one! A dear…read morefriend recommended this one and we were thanking her before we left our table. When we ordered, our server took the time to explain their spice scale (1-5), letting us know that a 1 is already about a medium spice level. We settled on mostly 2-3, but wow--the Thum Khao Poon (shredded green papaya salad) still packed some serious heat! Even my spice-loving kids were challenged. The server also gave us a heads-up that it's very fish-forward in flavor, which we appreciated and happened to love. The absolute standout of the meal was the Nam Khao Tod. It was hands down the family favorite--crispy coconut rice with pork sausage, crunchy peanuts, fresh herbs, and so many incredible textures and flavors in every bite. We could have ordered a second plate! We also had the Drunken Noodles with chicken, which were slightly oily in the best possible way, making them extra rich and delicious. The Chef's Special Basil Stir Fry with Crispy Pork was another winner. Our server brought over a chili vinegar that elevated the crispy pork to a whole new level--it was so good drizzled over every bite. Great food, thoughtful service, and plenty of dishes we're already looking forward to trying next time. Can't wait to come back!

If you are craving great Southeast Asian comfort food in Kearny Mesa, this place delivers on taste,…read morebut the arrival process is stressful. The plaza has horrible parking, and we had to aggressively fight for a parking space with another car before we could even walk in. Came here on a Saturday around 6 pm with 2 friends. == FOOD == We got a beef pad see ew, khao soi, and a pork rice. All the food was pretty good. I took off one star because it seemed like the pad see ew was smothered in white pepper. == SERVICE == Service was a bit slow, but we think it was because we were waiting for the rice to be cooked? However, the staff was polite, apologetic about the delay, and very attentive. She gave us free mango sticky rice. == AMBIANCE == Interior is very nice and there is bar seating too. The bathroom is also very clean. If you don't mind a slower-paced meal and a chaotic parking lot, the amazing Lao and Thai flavors are completely worth it!

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Sukho Thai Extraordinaire

Update: I realized I hadn't updated my review for this place in almost eight years!…read more I'm happy to say I still really enjoy this restaurant. It's become our go-to spot for Thai takeout over the past few years since it's close to home, and the food has always been consistently delicious. The quality and flavors have stayed the same every time we've ordered, which is something I really appreciate. Some of our regular favorites are the Thai crispy rolls, chicken lettuce wraps, Tom Kha soup, red curry, yellow curry, and my absolute favorite--the braised beef Panang curry. The sauce is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of creaminess. The beef is always tender, and it's one of those dishes I find myself craving over and over again. If you're looking for reliable, flavorful Thai food, this place continues to deliver. We'll definitely keep coming back.

What a great Thai Resturant Sukho Thai Extraordinaire! Such a nice surprise so delicious fresh…read morefood, we walk in and was greeted by a smiling young face she was eager to show us a table for 2. It wasn't really busy but a lot of take out too happen. We sat in the back by the kitchen door And the a younger gives us 3 menus and was a drink menu I ordered lychee ice tea And beer Next the appetizers Chicken Spring rolls and orchid too my the plate Green curry was delicious we had 2 on heat it was good so wonderful green great cooks happening here. With white rice to cutely done in flower shape We also had this Crispy Chicken Pad see ew Was fantastic too I love the coconut ice cream so good not heavy very lite, and cleanse our palate With toasted coconut on top too The best Everything was perfect We even ordered a fried rice with Crab the really thing & shrimp for your friend To go he was in heaven not saying a word when he eats he loved it too It was hot and real seafood here

Shrimp Miang Kham -@tinah

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Thai Iced Tea

So Saap

Oh em gee So Saap more like So Saarap!!! (Delicious in Tagalog) I do believe this experience eating…read morethis healthy yummy in my tummy food (the dessert and the meal and the water) was awesome hehe! Service?? Authentic and from the heart. Going into this restaurant is like stepping into a new delicious world. The chef is like Willy Wonka but for Thai food! I went for Mother's Day and I love my mom :) she loves it too "I love to eat here" - my mom

This review is for 7/18/26, we were visiting SD zoo and stopped by So Saap for dinner before…read moreheading back to LA. I thought the food was alright... Prices were decent. The restaurant was modernized enough. Also we just wanted to try a new restaurant we have never been to and thought why not give So Saap a shot. We ordered the lao papaya salad, khmer beef skewers, Tom yum soup, pad thai and lastly added Nam Khao dish. I was really excited about trying the Nam Khao and glad they had this option here. Everything came out right away but the Nam Khao never showed up. We were almost done with our dinner and the dish didn't come out yet so we asked them if we could cancel the order. The server told me she would see what she could do. 5 minutes later she brings the dish out and told us sorry they already made it and we had to accept it. At this point we were given the check. I was irritated but my husband said its fine, just take the whole thing to go and eat it when we get back. I packed it up. We paid for it and didn't make a fuss. When I got home and decided to eat it, I found a piece of rock in my food. First time this has ever happened. I'm not happy with our service and definitely not happy that Nam Khao came with a rock/pebble. Will attach a photo! Needless to say, we will NOT be coming back to So Saap again!

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55 Thai Kitchen

My second time visiting while in SD! To-go style restaurant inside a convenience market. There are…read morea few tables you can sit inside if you'd like. We ordered Gai tod, Spring rolls, Tom yum soup with veggies, Spicy basil chicken, Pad see ew with shrimp, Pad Thai with chicken and Mango sticky rice. Everything was really delicious. Favorite hole in the wall spot!

Great 55Thai spot in the back of a little bodega. They have a couple tables inside but we always…read moreget ours to go on lunch. They're fast and friendly. I wasn't super hungry so I just got the Gai Tod. It was crispy, juicy and flavorful! Usually I'll get it with white rice or the fried rice but just fried chicken today!

Tom yum soup and yellow curry

Restaurant order window

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Entrance to the restaurant. You can get tables outside or inside.

Kin Len - Thai Street Eats

5 stars without a question. brought my thai friend here to try with me, she introduced me to the…read moremenu and mentioned how a few things are not really served in american restaurants so that's cool to know this spot is truly authentic. regarding the food... EVERYTHING was AMAZING. she said she's going to take her parents here. thank you so much for blessing my taste buds. So Saap is my favorite thai restaurant in the city but menu is more lao leaning; im happy to report that Kin Len has put itself up there for me parallel paid parking

Curry so authentic, it stained my phone case…read more Good food but portion is small for the price.

Nice ambiance! Excited for the food

Tom Yum Wings

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Papaya salad

The Pad Thai Stand

This spot offers tasty varieties of pad Thai that's a great casual meal for takeout…read more I tried the southern style pad Thai, which had a richer coconut flavor. The fried peanuts and shallots also added a great contrast of texture and flavor. It also comes with a good amount of bean sprouts for an added crunch. The spicy level definitely has some heat to it, I think the medium was more than enough for me. The takeout process was smooth and service was great. Portions were generous for the price, it was very full and satisfied after!

Been coming to Pad Thai Stand for quite a few years now. I really like the simple pad Thai only…read morefocused menu. You choose your protein (chicken, shrimp, tofu, etc.) and then your style (Northern, Southern, Central. Etc.). Drink choices are Thai tea or water. Makes things very straightforward. Our favorite flavors are the southern (sweet and tangy) and northern (rich curry flavoring). I highly recommend you eat this right there hot off the wok as the flavors are significantly better while piping hot. Don't expect much for seating however, think more night-market outdoor seating - it's a bit grungy but the food makes up for it.

Dinner time! Southern style with shrimp and garlic

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Menu, front counter

Kiin Extraordinary Thai

The fact that they were vegan-friendly immediately earned a spot on my radar. After a long work…read moreweek, I pictured myself enjoying a quiet, peaceful dinner where I could decompress and recharge. Instead, I accidentally walked into what felt like the culinary cousin of a nightclub. The music was pumping, the energy was high, and any thoughts of a tranquil retreat disappeared faster than my appetizer. Maybe it's a completely different vibe during the day, but at night, this place is definitely alive. That said, once I adjusted my expectations (and accepted that my meditation session would have to wait), I had a great time. The restaurant is located inside Sky Deck, an indoor food hall with multiple vendors. Finding it felt a bit like a scavenger hunt since the signage wasn't very obvious, but after asking around, I eventually made my way there. I started with the garlic green beans after seeing another reviewer rave about them, and wow- they were not exaggerating. The dish arrived with a tiny umbrella perched on top, which was both adorable and unexpectedly glamorous for a plate of green beans. This appetizer was small but mighty. Every bite was packed with flavor, and if I hadn't already ordered an entrée, I absolutely would have ordered a second round. For my main course, I chose the Pad See Ew with fried tofu at medium spice. Apparently, their definition of "medium" and my definition of "medium" are not close relatives. This dish came with a kick! Halfway through, I found myself wishing I had ordered something sweet to balance things out. Instead, I bravely faced the spice armed only with hot water and a slice of lime. Um, it was a battle. While the portion size wasn't quite as large as what I've seen at similar restaurants, it ended up being exactly the right amount for me that evening. I left satisfied without feeling overly full. The service was wonderful as well. The waitresses were kind, and the hostess checked in during my meal, which made the experience feel welcoming and attentive. Although I didn't get the quiet, zen-like end to my work week that I had envisioned, I ended up enjoying something different: a fun solo date surrounded by great food, upbeat music, and the infectious energy of the crowd. Sometimes the universe gives you a peaceful retreat, and sometimes it gives you spicy noodles and a soundtrack. This time, I got the latter- and I'm not mad about it.

Such a beautiful Thai restaurant located within the Del Mar Sky Deck with incredibly flavorful…read moredishes! We surely left sated and with full and happy bellies. What we tried: Thai Iced Tea with coconut milk Fresh Spring Rolls with shrimp Tom Kha with shrimp Moo Yang Mixture Set Braised Beef Panang Curry Thai Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango Everything was truly topnotch. Every dish we got was so tasty and just made with love. One thing that was worth noting though, was how soft and tender the proteins were on the chef's signature dishes that we ordered. The braised beef just melts in your mouth! Their Thai Iced Tea was not too sweet and the mango sticky rice was utter perfection! The ambiance was amazing as their decor was not only simply exquisite, but so eye catching and interesting too, and the staff--they were so kind and attentive. You get the kind of service that will make you want to come back. They just make you feel so welcome here. Overall, we're absolutely delighted to have had dinner here and it certainly won't be the last time.

Sautéed Garlic with Green Beans (GF,V)

Entrance

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Fish Fillet Pad Ped entree.

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung has delicious food & excellent service. It's worth a trip to UTC Westfield to eat…read morethere.

It was our first time coming in here and food was amazing and also customer service . Place are…read morebeautiful and clean .

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Starlite

After dinner at Kingfisher, we were looking for a great place to end the night with dessert, and…read moreStarlite turned out to be the perfect choice. The funniest part was actually finding the place. We kept looking at the Yelp photos of the exterior, and the logo made us think the restaurant was in a large standalone building. Our Tesla kept navigating us to the same location, but we couldn't find what we expected. On our second pass, FSD actually pulled us right in front of the entrance--even in a red zone for a brief moment--just so we could finally see the Starlite sign. It honestly felt like the car knew we weren't recognizing the place. It was such a funny experience that made FSD seem almost human. Once inside, we were blown away. The interior is absolutely top-notch--stylish, elegant, and full of character. The pistachio dessert and the chocolate mousse were pure heaven, rich, smooth, and beautifully presented. The hidden disco room with the waterfall is simply insane and adds such a unique vibe to the experience. Even the restrooms are thoughtfully designed and incredibly cool. Starlite isn't just a place for dessert--it's an experience from the moment you arrive until you leave. Highly recommended if you're looking for an unforgettable atmosphere paired with amazing desserts.

Absolutely ridiculous that their 21+ age requirement isn't listed anywhere except a third party…read moresite at the VERY BOTTOM, where absolutely no one has to look to make a reservation. Made reservations for my birthday. I thoroughly reviewed their website. This age requirement is NOWHERE on their website, so we booked a reservation with Open Table. No problems. We drive an HOUR to this freaking place to get turned away at the door because it's technically "a bar" even though they have a full dinner menu. When I point out none of this is advertised anywhere, I'm informed it's on Open Table, and that we should've seen it there, and were dismissed. They said they could give us another restaurant recommendation and then proceeded to just dismiss us without even that courtesy. We go back to verify this age limit, and it's there... one TINY line 2 scrolls down on the page, WAY beyond any of the information needed to just book a table, which is the only thing Open Table is used for. Complete waste of time for a poorly advertised bar with zero helpful staff on a dumpy street by the airport.

Chef's vegetable salad, beautiful presented and super yummy!

Bar area after entering

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Cocktails are fun!

Malibu Farm

(2.2k reviews)

3.9 mi

Great vibes and service. Drinks are always so yummy. Leo was especially nice and very helpful!read more

Great brunch, service and ambiance, everything tastes fresh keeping concept farm to tableread more

SPACIOUS and CLEAN !

Catch of Day

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Strawberry Matcha Latte

Allegro Restaurant and Bar

Manuela was a fantastic server! Everything was wonderful and she made our experience so special and…read morefun!!

Alessio was fun, knowledgeable and attentive. My two kids give the food and service an A+ and so do…read morethe adults. Thank you for a lovely experience.

Tiramisu Cocktail Allegro Little Italy

Delicious Chilean Seabass

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Allegro little italy san diego delicious food

Born & Raised

We celebrated our anniversary here, and the entire experience was unforgettable. From the moment we…read morearrived, the staff went above and beyond to make us feel special. They were incredibly attentive, thoughtful, and made our celebration one to remember. The service was just as impressive as the food! And it's such a good vibe. We sat at the rooftop right before sunset. Beautiful!

We came in a couple weeks ago and everything was absolutely amazing! I loved that it was so elegant…read morefeeling, with a beautiful atmosphere filled with soft lighting, but also still so lively/fun, and with good music playing. The food and the service were equally outstanding. I really enjoyed all of the entertaining table side menu items they had available to order. Another thing that is always a really big nod to us of great service, is when they treat our kids just as well as us adults. They greeted them, spoke to them, and even ended up creating two mocktails from their personal preferences. We really appreciate that so much! We ended up ordering a variety of things to try for our family of four: the table side Caesar salad, the Steak Sampler, a Filet, Lobster, Mashed Potatoes, Mac and Cheese, and Truffle Fries - we loved it all! Perfectly cooked and everything we wanted it to be! We were so full, but after viewing the dessert cart all night, we had to try some! The most decadent, delicious, chocolate, layered cake was our pick. As we were waiting tho, we saw the table side banana foster dessert being made and had to order that too! No regrets!! It was all perfect!! They also kindly brought us out a really good peanut butter and jelly macron, but the star was that it was topped with a gold dusted Wu Tang emblem on top - LOVE!! PS - even the bathrooms were fun! I really look forward to trying more of their restaurants!

Dirty hash browns with trout roe, chives and crème fraiche

View from our table

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BURGUNDY SNAILS BONE MARROW & TOAST

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206 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

David T.

501

10 years ago

We were celebrating my friend's birthday and were tossing between going with the Bahn Thai or trying something new. This place is a hidden gem. I heard about it from one of my friends and decided to try it. I love Thai, but sometimes the atmosphere in a Thai restaurant is too dreary. This place had none of that dreary feeling. It was more of a fast paced Asian setting, which I liked. The place is perfect for lunch because service is relatively quick. I can say Bahn Thai is one of the best Thai places I've been to, ever, and definitely the best Thai place in San Diego. Their place is always packed but I'm not complaining because their food is so good and definitely worth the wait. The inexpensive food pricing and huge portions they give is great and served on paper plates makes everything easier to clean up! Plus it has a real home feel to it, customer service is excellent. they're super helpful and nice! Doesn't feel like a run of the mill restaurant. My usual order consists ofTom ka soup, drunken noodles with beef (medium spice), panang curry with chicken (medium spice) and Thai chicken satay skewers. Everything is delicious with addicting flavors that will delight your senses. Before you know it, you will be staring at an empty plate with remnants of what used to be your dish, a full tummy and MAYBE a tinge of eater's remorse but it will pass. AND finally this is a place where they clean shrimps as it should be done, most of places where I go they dont do it so I simply never ever buy shrimps again. Love u Bahn Thai Their Green Curry chicken is among one of my favorites and their Pad Thai is pretty tough to beat, too. read more

Bahar T.

633

10 years ago

This is perhaps the closest thing you'll find to decent Thai food in San Diego. Papaya salad was ok, but we ordered it mild, and it needed a little more spice. I preferred the shrimp salad, as the shrimp were tender and nicely cooked, and the chili dressing added a sweet little zing to the greens and the shrimp. The greens were simple lettuce and cabbage. I'm going through a Panang Curry obsession, and I've tried several all over San Diego now. For me, however, Bahn Thai is the winner. Their Panang is perfect in creaminess, spiciness, and overall taste. My personal favorite is the chicken Panang, and I have absolutely no complaints regarding the quality and taste of their meats. My favorite dish by far was the May 2015 special - lemongrass chicken $9.50. Just outstanding, I had it 4 times in less than two weeks. I wish it was a regular dish on their menu. They said the monthly dishes are specials only and change. The only disappointment I had was the crab fried rice special dish from May continued through June, I just wish it was the lemon grass chicken that continued instead. Their little containers of chili oil are great, it is much hotter than other places, although I am not sure, but I believe it is homemade (it could be made from dried Thai birds eye chili peppers rather than the usual red pepper flakes used in chili pepper oil) Limited seating. One time their electricity was out so they had to close. Sad day. The staff are very kind and helpful. There is no doubt that this is THE best Thai food that I've stumbled upon, with the friendliest owner I've met, with all of my loyalty and affection. read more

Abby R.

330

2 years ago

If you're in San Diego and craving authentic Thai cuisine, look no further than Bahn Thai. Having frequented this spot on my visits from Orange County, I can confidently say it's a must-try for any Thai food enthusiast. On my latest visit, I ordered the Pad Thai with chicken, green curry with chicken, and chicken satay. Each dish was a delightful representation of Thai flavors. The Pad Thai was perfectly balanced, with a satisfying combination of sweet, savory, and tangy notes. The green curry was a standout--rich and aromatic, with tender chicken swimming in a creamy, spicy sauce that had just the right kick. The chicken satay, grilled to perfection, was served with a flavorful peanut sauce that complemented the dish beautifully. Bahn Thai offers a unique dining experience, as there's no indoor seating--just a few outdoor tables. This adds a casual, laid-back vibe that I personally enjoy, especially in the pleasant San Diego weather. However, be prepared for some street parking challenges; it can be tricky, but I've always managed to find a spot without too much hassle. One of the highlights of Bahn Thai is their efficiency. All orders are "to-go," which means no waiting for boxes if you have leftovers--just grab your food and go! Plus, their online ordering system is a lifesaver for those on the run. In summary, Bahn Thai is a fantastic option for delicious Thai food with a casual atmosphere. If you're in the area, it's definitely worth stopping by. Just remember to keep an eye out for parking! read more

Rex P.

178

11 years ago

Bahn Thai will forever be in my heart. Now first things first, I want to address this conversation about the word "authentic" I'm sure most of the reviewers who are concerned with this restaurant being authentic have never been to Thailand. And have never eaten Thai street food. Thai street food is the heart of Thai eatery and also does not concern itself with being "authentic" I think that the word is thrown around too much and if you're really looking for authentic then I suggest you figure out someway to make Thai curry paste from scratch and Live in Thailand for a minimum of 2 years. Also to address those of you who are concerned about the paper plates and plastic utensil. I get it, I really do, but come on you're going to go down on your Yelp review stars because you can't manage to get over a restaurant using disposable products when the restaurant can barely fit a dishwasher??? Now, since when it opened it has gotten more busy. And the lines and wait are really long. But to me it's really worth it. The people are nice and the place makes me feel at home. If you want to avoid the wait, I recommend coming at 1-5 when the rush is a little less. MY FAVORITE THING TO GET IS THE BAI GRAPOW!!! Make sure to ask for an egg on top and if you can, ask for the head chef Sam to make it, its the absolute best! Other notable dishes -pad see ew(epic) -all the curries (astounding) -everything on the menu.... I live Bahn Thai. I love Bahn Thai. read more

Marissa T.

150

12 years ago

Already exhausted from office work, my co-worker organized a brief out-of-town trip to which I tagged along. We visited several places along the way and had sightseeing tour of the tourist spots plus let's not forget dining and experiencing the local cuisines. But the highlight of the trip was with the hotel that we will be staying for the night. Aside from the fact that they had the place at a cliff near the sea, they also have pools and restaurant. The place had its own bee farm where they harvest honey, organic herbs and vegetables, as well as edible flowers that they serve on their salads. We had our dinner at their restaurant and we just can't let the trip pass by without tasting the salads. I had mine with honey mustard while the rest of the group had vinaigrette and we also had the grilled tofu in mushroom sauce. The fragrance of the food and dining beside the ocean were so fulfilling to the soul that we ordered another batch of salad and vegetable skewer. The friendly attendant told us that their shakes are all organic and natural so also tried them in various flavors, graviola, mango and milk with coconut meat and juice. I'd love to go back and was thinking of bringing my guy here next visits. read more

Foofo A.

1912

1 year ago

We've always cherished Bahn Thai as a must-visit whenever we're in San Diego--it's even been the first meal of the day for my kids on past trips! The location we usually visit, was closed until August so we went to this location. Unfortunately, this last visit fell short of our usual fantastic experience. I ordered the chicken Pad Thai, but it just seemed to be missing something crucial in its flavor profile. The chicken, in particular, had an unpleasant, slightly old scent, which was disappointing. My husband's garlic chicken stir-fry with brown rice was decent, but nothing to write home about. On a brighter note, my daughter's Panang curry with potatoes was absolutely delicious, though it could have used more of the traditional heat we usually expect. The following night, my son and nephew also ordered from Bahn Thai and echoed our sentiments, feeling their dishes were "missing something." Even the sticky mango rice, usually a highlight, seemed to lack the usual care and quality we've come to love. We're really hoping this was just an off night for a place we truly adore. read more

Rogelio V.

1 year ago

Bhan Thai in University Heights is my absolute go-to for incredible Thai food. Seriously, this place is a gem. The menu is packed with amazing options, and every single dish I've tried has been bursting with flavor. From their Pad Thai (a classic done perfectly) to their curries and noodle dishes, everything is consistently delicious. What impresses me most, though, is how quick and efficient the service is, especially considering how busy they always are. The staff is friendly and despite the constant rush, my order is *always* right. I'm not sure how they do it! There's usually a bit of a wait, but trust me, it's worth it. You won't regret trying this place. It's easily become one of my favorites. While they do have seating, it's often packed, so I usually opt for takeout. Grabbing my food and heading to a nearby park for a picnic or enjoying it from the comfort of my own home is the perfect way to complete the Bhan Thai experience. If you're in the University Heights area, you *have* to give Bhan Thai a try. You won't be disappointed! read more

Erica J.

12 years ago

When I'm in the mood for Thai and I'm in the area, then Bahn Thai is my go to spot. I occasionally come here for lunch or take out food. Last time I was here, I ordered the pad kee mao as a lunch special. It was very good (everything tasted very fresh) but very spicy for someone like me who usually orders mildly spicy food! So here's a tip--tell them how spicy you want your food unless you don't mind having tears streaming down your face during your meal. I almost got to that point! Before then, I always ordered the yellow curry which was always excellent and their spring rolls and tom yum soup were always on point. They have a bunch of well-priced lunch combos and lunch entrees for you to select from. Their service is pretty fast (they know a lot of people need to return to work) and they are extremely polite. All in all, this is a great spot for lunch if you need to be in and out in a short amount of time! read more

Melvin S.

1 year ago

Back in San Diego for vacation and so glad I found this place again after 7 years! The food is still just as amazing, and it felt even more special being able to share it with my family. Bahn Thai truly set the bar, the relaxed ambiance is just as I remembered. Parking can be tricky, but it's worth it whether you're grabbing takeout or lucky enough to snag a spot and dine in. My wife had the chance to chat with Anna P. and shared how much we missed this place after trying others that just don't compare. Anna kindly came by our table and surprised us with complimentary mango sticky rice, absolutely bomb! To top it all off, the owner, Uncle Sam, personally introduced himself, brought us Thai tea, and gifted us their special Papa Sam chili sauce. Such a great and lucky day to meet them both! It might be years before we're back again, but thank you, Bahn Thai, for continuing to be our go-to comfort food. read more

Hung T.

2 years ago

Bahn Thai restaurant is my go-to place whenever I'm craving chicken pad thai. The food here is simply amazing. Every bite is bursting with authentic flavors that never disappoint. 4 star and not 5 stars because of the only minor setback is their pricing, particularly for the chicken pad thai, which comes in at $16. While the quality and taste justify the cost, it's definitely on the higher end for a casual dining experience. As much as I love their dishes, it's not something I can afford to indulge in regularly. However, I see it more as a special treat, reserved for those occasions when I want to treat myself to something truly delicious. Overall, Bahn Thai offers an exceptional dining experience with its mouthwatering dishes and cozy ambiance. Despite the pricing, I always look forward to my occasional visits and savor every moment spent there. read more

Daniel K.

4 years ago

Service: 4 stars. Friendly gal taking orders. You can see straight into the kitchen from the sidewalk. We watched them chop up the veggies for our lunches, which was awesome. Ambiance: 3 stars. The inside was nice and clean. Pandora was rocking on a little jukebox. We ate outside where, similar to El Zarape next door, there are flies. Unlike El Zarape, Bahn Thai has a bug zapper that scared the living daylights out of me when it went off while I was sitting next to it. That's the only reason I gave it 3 stars: for spooking me. Location: 5 stars. So excited to have a new lunch alternative in University Heights. We work down the street, and Bahn Thai just rocketed into our list of lunch options. Food: 4 stars. I got the Chicken Pad Thai (medium spicy). Mellie G. got the Massaman Curry (mild spicy). $8 each, and certainly enough for leftovers. read more

Jeff J.

11 years ago

Bahn Thai isn't your "please wait to be seated" with a server taking your order kind of place. Its a quaint "hole in the wall" kind of place with its own unique charm. You wait in line, you order, you hope you find a place to sit and they call out your name and bring you your order. First time here...we started with Tom Kha soup and it was excellent. In fact, probably the best Tom Kha soup I have had. Pad Thai was very good but not best I have ever had. Pad Kee Mao (drunken noodle) a personal favorite, was really good. Finished with a sticky rice and Mango which is hard to screw up so all good there. I thought prices were reasonable, food quality was great for the price, and quantity was very good as well. Paper plates and bowls were not a problem and are part of the charm. Its like a taco shop only with really good Thai food. read more

Angela N.

Elite 25

353

103

2 years ago

I recently tried Bahn Thai in University Heights, and it left a positive impression with its flavorful Thai dishes. The small outdoor seating area makes it more suitable for takeout, and although the wait for our order was about 35 minutes due to its popularity, the dishes were well worth it. We opted for the medium spicy basil fried rice with beef, which was excellent. The medium spicy pad Thai with pork also impressed us with its rich flavors. However, the mango sticky rice fell short on sweetness, affecting the overall experience. Despite the minor setback with the dessert, I'll be returning for their outstanding rice and noodle dishes. If they enhance the mango sticky rice, this place would easily earn five stars from me. Highly recommended for Thai food enthusiasts! read more

Andy M.

10 years ago

Interested in eating Thai Food? American palette Bahn Thai is here in SD with a wide range of vegetarian foods from Thai. Honestly Speaking! I want to brief you a summary before illustrating any further working in this. I liked a lot many things which I've never observed before under sustainable grip. The place has great impulse over it with retaining the justified approach as per the utility. Food brought me to the level to state my review here and provide grateful. The service was so appropriate and rapid that despite of having number of new arrivals on door, we enjoyed their hospitality. My choice is visit was so well-responded which made me feel comforting as I was equipped with my guests' right around. read more

Kyle L.

14 years ago

I came here for the first time yesterday and let me just say, LOVED IT. As a matter of fact, not only did I order 1, but 3 of their Panang Curry! One when I got there, a second plate because I was hungry, and a 3rd plate for lunch the next day. The staff was very friendly and made me feel like I was at home. I can't remember the gentleman's name in the front but he was really cool (a big Charger fan too) which made it even better as we got to talking about football. I am a curry fan so, I will definitely be back to try all the other dishes.... No need for the fancy other overrated Thai restaurants in the area, if you want true Thai food -- this place absolutely RockS! read more

Sara G.

2 years ago

The larb was excellent! We got carryout and the line was around the door on a weekday. Always a good sign. The pad see ew was great, would have liked a bit for Thai basil. Same for the larb. Also got the pad Thai and it was on the sweet side for my taste, but probably good for most people. Ordered 2-chili heat and it was perfect spiciness. I want to try the lemongrass chicken and the Penang curry next time I go. And I'll definitely have the larb again. Also, the larb was made with white meat ground chicken. Some will like it, but it's not as tender as a dark blend. read more

Big L.

13 years ago

i love bahn thai. I used to grow up eating thai food at a thai temple and moved away from home. now bahn thai offer me the comfort and satisfaction I crave, and the prices I desire. their vegetables are so crunchy. I like everything. Pad thai is good, pad see ew, drunken noodles, the curry. They bring the food out to you if you are waiting outside to-go. The friendlyness of the staff and the fact that I will continue to come back. Mmmmmmmmmm. trust me, you'll want to save some for tomorrow. Also their tupperware they give you can wash it and use it again tomorrow. read more

Andrew S.

13 years ago

This place was great! We ordered curry and peanut chicken and they were both great! I would call my order in next time since parking is a little hard to find and there is not much seating to dine in. I would have given them a 5 star review if they had more seating, I had to get my order to go since they were packed and the few tables they had were full. The guy at the cashier was so nice, he gave me a free Thai tee for having to wait so long. There are very friendly and they prices are reasonable for this part of town. We will be back read more

adam k.

455

108

9 years ago

Hands downs some of the best Thai in San Diego. Just got back from a trip in Bali, where I literally ate curry twice a day. This place beats most of the curry I had in Bali! Its not a fancy spot at all, they serve their food on paper plates if you eat there, but that's part of its charm. My friends brought me here a couple weeks ago, and I've already been back numerous times. Pro tip, take out can take a while so be sure to call ahead early to get your order in. I also recommend getting double meat, but that's just me read more

Bethany M.

4 years ago

I've been craving Thai food for some time and when we are in the area, I never missed the chance to try their dishes. The pad thai was phenomenal, i love how the flavor blends all together. Green curry was creamy with the right spices and flavor. Pineapple fried rice is uniquely delicious, I never imagined pineapple can be an ingredient in a fried rice. It gives a sweet and fresh taste on the dish. Oh, the papaya salad is a must try! Refreshing with the right saltiness and tanginess! read more

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