Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Ruan Thai

    3.8 (560 reviews)
    ModerateThai
    Open 11:30 am - 9:30 pm

    Ruan Thai Photos

    RUAN THAI ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for kids
    Dogs allowed

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Ruan Thai

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Jessi S.

    Worth the 30 min drive for the BEST Thai! Got the staples: crispy duck basil, watercress salad- always good all the time. We also tried the soft shell crab with red curry, SO good. I was practically drinking the sauce. We tried to drunken noodles (last time we got pad see ew), but these were not good. All our dishes had a "chili pepper" for spice level, but nothing was that spicy except for the duck.

    Crispy boneless duck with basil
    Susy P.

    This truly is my favorite Thai place. The flounder that is fried perfectly with a brown sauce is incredible, we tried a few new things. That's why I'm sharing that the crispy duck with basil with no spice was very good. Also, the clear noodles with shrimp were tasty if you put the fish sauce over it, everything was cooked perfectly. Their watercress appetizer is to die for perfectly seasoned with a great flavor and crunchiness of the watercress with the calamari, you definitely have to come here service was phenomenal. Our waitress was so sweet and provided. Great suggestions. It was not crowded and we were served right away.

    Ped pad kha prao (boneless duck in hot chili and fresh basil)
    Emi V.

    This is my second time at Ruan Thai! The employees are always nice, and the atmosphere makes you feel like you're eating at home. I got the Ped Pad Kha Prao which is the boneless duck with hot chili and fresh basil. It is so good but it is spicy, so ask for no spicy even if you can eat a little bit spicy. The beef mussa mun was also good. It reminds me of a Vietnamese dish called bo kho. Keep in mind that they do close for an hour from 3:30-4:30pm, so if you come a little before 3pm you might be cutting it close.

    Grilled salmon
    Jeck F.

    My go to spot for Thai, the service was great. I thought portion sizes were good. The green and red curries were flavorful. The place could use an update and a bit of cleaning.

    Eggplant and tofu with chili sauce
    Lee Z.

    Another great dining experience. Service is always pleasant. Food is very good. The ambiance is casual.

    Alexis T.

    The staff were patient and polite. There's a great range of variety on the menu. A standout item is the fried watercress seafood salad. It has calamari, shrimp, cashews, onions etc with a sweet/zesty sauce. I would prefer more shrimp than squid in the dish. Italian sizable appetizer for sharing. Parking is horrendous with maybe five parking spaces in a tiny lot that may require maneuvering. If you find street parking, pay the meter even if you just run in to pick up an order.

    Menu
    Justin P.

    Food was amazing! Parking, not so much. Updating my post since it's been about 8 years since my experience where the waiter ran after us asking for more tip. Other than that, food and service was good! Definitely changed over the time.

    Pad Thai with chicken
    Amber H.

    The food here was very tasty and well seasoned. We sat in to dine and had great service as the staff was friendly. I would recommend this spot if you are in the mood for Thai food.

    Appetizers as a whole, satisfying lunch! Yum Watercress and Kanum Jeeb (6 chicken dumplins with delicious dipping sauce) 5 stars!
    Bridget E.

    I had the pleasure of eating here for the first time with a good friend a month ago. It was delicious, and the wait staff are so friendly and just attentive enough to allow us space yet be on hand when we needed to ask a question. I had the Yum Watercress appetizer, shared the 6 dumplings (Kanum Jeeb), and we both had the Pad Thai (I had the combo meat. Not pictured) DELISH! Then I went by myself just a few days ago for a self-care lunch and repeated the Kanum Jeeb and the Yum Watercress appetizers (pictured). The servings are ample enough that I took a to-go box home! This gem of a restaurant is walking distance from my home. So I get the double benefit of getting my steps in and eating well! My new go-to for comfort food, trying new dishes every visit, and feeling no guilt if I overeat!

    Combination pineapple fried rice
    Giovanni G.

    The food and cleanliness of this establishment needs to improve. Our waitress was kind and attentive but it's not her fault. It is the fault of the owner or management that needs to address these issues. The bathroom was very atrocious and you could see mouse dropping all around the toilet and sink on the floor. It blends in due to the dark tiles but you can tell that this place has an infestation and needs to be addressed. I wish I hadn't ate here because of that fact but I had already eaten and I wished I took a photo of the droppings I saw onto this post although I did take a photo of the food. The food didn't taste fresh either and it's probably a reflection of unhygienic the restroom is. I would recommend people to dine elsewhere like Thai chef in Bethesda MD or Tiki Thai in Virginia. I will never be dining here again nor will I ever recommend this establishment.

    Chicken Paid Thai
    Kerlin M.

    Such a hidden gem in the Wheaton area! I just had dinner here with a couple of friends. Here's my review breakdown: - Food: They did not miss on ANYTHING. I had the Tom Yum soup and #14 Yum Woon Sen. The soup was super flavorful and good, everything I expect from the soup. #14 was something new I decided to try. I am so glad I did, it was good and fresh. Definitely recommend that as an appetizer. My friend had the chicken pad Thai and it was perfect! When I say everything HIT, it was all good. - Drink: We ordered Thai teas and this place had the best Thai tea I've EVER had. Doesn't taste artificially or too sugary. I like being able to actually taste the tea. I would travel just for that tea again. Service: Remember it is a mom and pop shop so there was only 1/2 servers it seemed for the entire place. With that being said, they came over frequently and we usually made eye contact when we needed something. If you've made this far, i definitely recommend for you to check this place out!

    Yum watercress
    Min Z.

    One of the best Thai restaurants in the area. It's very popular among locals. We have been here many times, always go for our favorite dishes. Typical neighborhood restaurant without much fanfare. The prices were reasonable, the food was great, the service was courteous and efficient. 5*Yum watercress-Deep-fried watercress, shrimp, squid, onion, cilantro, and cashew nut in spicy lime dressing: this is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. This dish alone attracted us back and back again. 4*PLA PAD CHA-deep fried fillet catfish sautéed celery and the garlic in hot chili and social Thai sauce: the sauce was tasty and a bit spicy. The celery was cooked just right with a crunchy texture. 3*PAD THAI-Sautéed Thai thin rice noodle with shrimps, egg, ground peanut, red tofu, bean sprout, and spring onion: typical Thai dish, the portion was generous, but not very flavorful. 4*KHA NAH MOO KORB: Chinese broccoli was cooked perfectly, crispy and crunchy. The sauce was a bit heavy and salty. 3*PAD KHA TIEM PRIK THAI shrimp: cabbage salad with shrimps. The Thai pepper sauce was a bit spicy and addictive.

    Drunken noodles

    See all

    Photo of Lisa L.
    86
    21
    5

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Amazing food and service, but it is a bit pricey. This is my favorite Thai go to spot in silver spring.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mike B.
    3712
    1227
    6805

    13 years ago

    Helpful 11
    Thanks 0
    Love this 16
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ruth C.
    3297
    2439
    10259

    13 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    I love going to Ruan Thai. The service and food is always good. Clean restaurant, and my Pad Thai is always sooo delicious .

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    13 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Deb G.
    209
    872
    1261

    14 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    A neighborhood gem. Very authentic tasting food. Many options for dine in or take out. We do Carr out from them on a regular basis.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of M M.
    0
    88
    3

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Fran W.
    34
    70
    0

    4 years ago

    Visiting DC, went here, blew me away ! Great food, and prices ! Wish I lived closer I`d be there evryday.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Alex B.
    269
    81
    55

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Pineapple rice. Deep fired fish. Chicken satay. Try it and you will lime it. Good thai food.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of R K.
    131
    51
    10

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Adria M.
    13
    67
    41

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mollie C.
    88
    36
    240

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 2

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Favorite neighborhood Thai. Large takeout portions.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 3 of 14

    Ask the Community - Ruan Thai

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Thai 22,518 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Kiin Imm Thai Restaurant - Rockville

    Kiin Imm Thai Restaurant - Rockville

    4.3(1.1k reviews)
    5.6 mi
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Established in 2018

    I visited one of my favorite spots in Rockville today, Kiin Imm Thai, and it never disappoints. It…read moreisn't a huge restaurant, but our party of six was seated right away, which was a pleasant surprise. The Boat Noodle Soup hits the spot every single time. It's so comforting and filling that I always feel like I need a nap afterward! The rich, spicy broth has the perfect kick that lingers in the back of your throat, and the lemongrass flavor is incredibly satisfying. It has just the right amount of noodles and tender beef, and it's even topped with crispy fried pork skins that add the perfect crunch. If you enjoy spicy food, this is definitely a dish you need to try. The food comes out fairly quickly, so don't be surprised if your appetizer and entrée arrive around the same time. I don't mind because everything is so delicious, but it's something to keep in mind if you like to pace your meal.

    The food was good overall, and I especially enjoyed the braised pork leg with rice. The flavor was…read moredelicious, and I had no complaints about the food itself. Unfortunately, the service was very disappointing. I asked the server if she was Thai, and she nodded to indicate that she was. However, after that, her attitude was cold and unfriendly. She rarely smiled, seemed annoyed whenever we needed anything, and made us feel as though we were not welcome. The poor service took away from what could have been a pleasant dining experience. Good food is important, but customers should also be treated with warmth, courtesy, and respect. I hope the restaurant will improve its customer service.

    Photos
    Kiin Imm Thai Restaurant - Rockville - Burn, Baby, Burn !!!

    Burn, Baby, Burn !!!

    Kiin Imm Thai Restaurant - Rockville - Huli Huli Pork

    Huli Huli Pork

    Kiin Imm Thai Restaurant - Rockville - Green Chayote

    See all

    Green Chayote

    Mi La Cay - Carryout Menu Updated May 2023

    Mi La Cay

    4.4(907 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $$

    This is your place for a great tasting, no frills Vietnamese meal!…read more My family and I have been going to this restaurant for many years now and it never disappoints. They had speedy service despite being pretty packed on a Saturday night and servers were attentive to all our needs. We got the beef banh mi, vermicelli noodles with beef, and pho with steak, brisket, and tripe - all very tasty, with generous portions, and reasonably priced!

    A neighborhood staple that never disappoints, this local gem has earned its loyal following for…read moregood reason. From the welcoming atmosphere to the consistently delicious food, it's easy to see why people keep coming back. Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of pho or one of their other flavorful dishes, there's really no wrong choice. On this visit, I ordered the lemongrass beef, and it absolutely hit the spot. The meat was flavorful and satisfying, and I was especially grateful that it arrived so quickly because I came in starving. If you're under the weather be sure to order their pho. It's equally impressive, with a rich, aromatic broth that will warm your belly (and keeps this diner coming back time and time again). The restaurant itself is cozy and inviting, yet surprisingly spacious with plenty of seating. It's the perfect spot to get together with friends or family for a quick lunch, or comforting dinner.

    Photos
    Mi La Cay - Carryout Menu Updated 2023

    Carryout Menu Updated 2023

    Mi La Cay - On the wall

    On the wall

    Mi La Cay - Banh Xeo

    See all

    Banh Xeo

    Bangkok Garden - Rockville - Roti Curry-- so good

    Bangkok Garden - Rockville

    4.4(440 reviews)
    5.3 mi
    $$

    One of the best spots in MoCo for Thai cuisine!…read more My family and I love going to Bangkok Garden for friendly, efficient service and delicious Thai food. This time around, we ordered pad thai, one dish with shrimp and one with beef, crabmeat fried rice, and the khao soy noodles. The khao soy was the perfect amount of spicy and the chicken pieces + fresh onions + crispy noodles added a nice texture to the richness of the broth. This order came literally 5 minutes after we placed it, with the rest of the food coming shortly after! Portions are reasonable - all of us managed to finish our plates and felt pretty content if not full. I would say this place has a fun, upbeat atmosphere with the colorful, graffiti walls. Very limited seating though, so understandably there may be a wait time on a busy Friday or Saturday night.

    Came here on a weekday around 4PM with a friend, most of the tables were surprisingly full. Shared…read morethe kao soi and drunken noodle with tofu. Flavors of both were good, the drunken noodles had a roasty flavor from I suspect using a big flame under a wok which was great. Kao soi flavor was strong, but the chicken was flavorless and a bit dry. I asked if I could get half veggies half tofu for the drunken noodles and was told it'd be an extra $2 which I thought was a bit ridiculous, at least they told me beforehand. I asked for spicy and it wasn't really that spicy. Good flavors all around though and decent portions. Pricing I guess was fine, ~$35 post-tax pre-tip. I didn't like that they have a lot of plastic and one-time use items - they gave us water in plastic cups, wooden one-time use chopsticks wrapped in plastic, paper plates if we wanted to share food I guess (I gave this back to them when they brought it over). Boo.

    Photos
    Bangkok Garden - Rockville - Inside

    Inside

    Bangkok Garden - Rockville - Drunken Fried Rice

    Drunken Fried Rice

    Bangkok Garden - Rockville - Thai Iced Tea

    See all

    Thai Iced Tea

    Thai Chef - Rockville - Crazy Thai Lady

    Thai Chef - Rockville

    4.1(354 reviews)
    6.4 mi
    $$

    We had dinner at Thai Chef with another couple a few weeks ago and, between the food, drink,…read moreservice, and fun decor, I knew I'd found the place where I wanted to have my retirement party with old friends. Crystal and I shared the fried rice that she ordered and the duck curry that I ordered, and I enjoyed both, but the perfectly sweet duck curry really made me happy, so I had it again at my party. Our party of 15 was served efficiently, including pad thai and pineapple fried rice for everyone, and I enjoyed the Crazy Thai Lady: Tequila infused with Thai chili and lime leaves in a tartly-rimmed glass with my dinner. NOTE: They don't take reservations after 6pm.

    My partner and I came back today for a late lunch. The place was not crowded…read more We ordered a Tom Yum soup with two spoons, Drunken Noodles and Pineapple Fried Rice. We've had the Drunken noodles before and they are consistently good. The fried rice, my first time for this dish, was very good. Three large shrimp, chicken, chunks of pineapple and some veggies with a very tasty rice. Yum. One disappointment today that I think is worth mentioning. We routinely get the Tom Yum soup and it is one of my favorite things here. Today, the broth tasted like sriracha sauce. My partner agreed. The manager came over and asked how things were. I told her that I was disappointed in the soup, and asked if they had changed their recipe. I told her that we routinely get this item as a favorite, and that it normally has a complex flavor of spices and this time tastes like simple sriracha. She asked if we wanted a different soup. I told her no, that this is our favorite soup and that we get it every time and it's just disappointing this time. She said it probably had too much chili paste put into it and that she'd talk to the head chef. And that was the end of it. Never heard another word or saw her again. When the check came, the charge for the soup was still on the bill. I'm deducting a point from my 5-point scores in the past because I'm disappointed that the manager acknowledged there was a problem but still charged for the soup.

    Photos
    Thai Chef - Rockville - After school wonton

    After school wonton

    Thai Chef - Rockville - Thai Basil Gimlet

    Thai Basil Gimlet

    Thai Chef - Rockville - Peppery Garlic Fried Rice

    See all

    Peppery Garlic Fried Rice

    Ruan Thai - thai - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...