Craving the exotic spices and vibrant flavors of Thailand? You don’t have to hop on a plane to Bangkok to experience the magic. Monrovia, California, boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious Thai food scene, offering everything from comforting Pad Thai to fiery green curry. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food aficionado or a curious newcomer, Monrovia has something to satisfy your palate. This article explores the best Thai restaurants in Monrovia, highlighting their unique offerings, atmosphere, and what makes them stand out in the culinary landscape. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through Monrovia’s top Thai food destinations.
Baan Thai: A Monrovia Staple
Baan Thai is a long-standing favorite amongst Monrovia residents seeking authentic Thai cuisine. Located conveniently on Myrtle Avenue, Baan Thai exudes a welcoming and comforting atmosphere from the moment you step inside. The interior is decorated with traditional Thai artwork and warm lighting, creating a relaxed and inviting space for diners.
The ambiance at Baan Thai is a perfect blend of casual and elegant. Whether you are planning a casual weeknight dinner with family or a special occasion with friends, Baan Thai offers a pleasant and versatile dining experience. The restaurant is known for its friendly and attentive service, adding to the overall positive experience.
The menu at Baan Thai is extensive, featuring a wide variety of classic Thai dishes prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Of course, the Pad Thai is a must-try, featuring perfectly cooked noodles, flavorful tamarind sauce, and your choice of protein. The Green Curry is another popular choice, rich and creamy with just the right amount of spice. For those seeking something a little different, the Pineapple Fried Rice is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors served in a hollowed-out pineapple.
Beyond the classics, Baan Thai also offers a selection of unique dishes that showcase the diversity of Thai cuisine. The Tom Kha soup, a coconut milk-based soup with galangal, lemongrass, and mushrooms, is a fragrant and flavorful starter. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Pla Rad Prik, a crispy whole fish topped with a tangy and spicy chili sauce. Baan Thai also caters to vegetarians with a wide range of vegetarian options, including tofu-based dishes and vegetable curries.
When it comes to pricing, Baan Thai falls into the mid-range category, making it an accessible option for most diners. Expect to pay around fifteen to twenty-five dollars per entree.
“Baan Thai is our go-to spot for Thai food in Monrovia,” says long-time resident Sarah M., “The food is always delicious, and the service is fantastic. We especially love the Pad See Ew and the Green Curry.”
What makes Baan Thai stand out is its commitment to quality and consistency. The restaurant has been serving the Monrovia community for years, building a loyal following thanks to its delicious food, friendly service, and welcoming atmosphere. If you are looking for a reliable and authentic Thai dining experience, Baan Thai is an excellent choice.
Lime Thai Fusion: Modern Flavors
For a more modern take on Thai cuisine, look no further than Lime Thai Fusion. This contemporary restaurant offers a sleek and stylish dining experience, located in the heart of Old Town Monrovia. Lime Thai Fusion distinguishes itself with its innovative menu, creative presentations, and vibrant atmosphere.
The decor at Lime Thai Fusion is chic and minimalist, with clean lines, modern lighting, and vibrant pops of color. The restaurant’s ambiance is lively and energetic, making it a popular spot for young professionals and social gatherings. Lime Thai Fusion features both indoor and outdoor seating, allowing diners to enjoy the California sunshine while savoring their meals.
Lime Thai Fusion’s menu features a blend of traditional Thai dishes and innovative fusion creations. While you’ll find classics like Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup, you’ll also discover unique items like the Thai Basil Burger and the Mango Sticky Rice Spring Rolls. Lime Thai Fusion uses high-quality ingredients and creative culinary techniques to deliver dishes that are both visually stunning and incredibly flavorful.
One of the standout dishes at Lime Thai Fusion is the Drunken Noodles, featuring wide rice noodles stir-fried with basil, vegetables, and your choice of protein in a flavorful soy sauce. The Panang Curry is another crowd-pleaser, rich and creamy with a hint of sweetness and a subtle kick of spice. For those seeking something lighter, the Papaya Salad is a refreshing and zesty option, featuring shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a tangy lime dressing.
Lime Thai Fusion offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including tofu-based dishes and vegetable curries. The restaurant is also accommodating to dietary restrictions and can customize dishes to meet individual needs.
Lime Thai Fusion’s pricing is slightly higher than Baan Thai, reflecting its more upscale ambiance and innovative menu. Expect to pay around twenty to thirty dollars per entree.
“Lime Thai Fusion is our favorite place for a special occasion,” says Monrovia local David L. “The food is always amazing, the atmosphere is trendy, and the cocktails are fantastic. We love the Pad See Ew and the Pineapple Fried Rice.”
Lime Thai Fusion stands out for its commitment to innovation and creativity. The restaurant constantly experiments with new flavors and techniques, offering diners a unique and exciting culinary experience. If you’re looking for a modern and stylish Thai restaurant with a creative menu, Lime Thai Fusion is a must-try.
Thai Town Noodle: Casual and Convenient
If you are searching for a quick, affordable, and delicious Thai meal, Thai Town Noodle is an excellent choice. Located on Huntington Drive, this casual eatery offers a no-frills dining experience with a focus on flavorful noodle dishes and authentic Thai street food.
Thai Town Noodle’s ambiance is simple and unassuming. The restaurant is small and cozy, with limited seating, making it a popular spot for takeout and quick lunches. While the decor may be minimal, the focus is on the food, which is consistently delicious and prepared with care.
As the name suggests, Thai Town Noodle specializes in noodle dishes. The Pad Thai is a staple, as well as the Pad See Ew, and the Drunken Noodles. All three noodle dishes are prepared with fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces. The restaurant also offers a selection of Thai soups, including Tom Yum and Tom Kha, as well as rice dishes and appetizers.
One of the most popular dishes at Thai Town Noodle is the Boat Noodle Soup, a rich and flavorful beef broth with rice noodles, bean sprouts, basil, and your choice of meat. The Crispy Pork Belly is another must-try item, featuring succulent pork belly with crispy skin and a tangy dipping sauce. Thai Town Noodle also offers a variety of vegetarian options, including tofu-based noodle dishes and vegetable stir-fries.
Thai Town Noodle is one of the most affordable Thai restaurants in Monrovia. Most dishes cost between ten and fifteen dollars, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious diners.
“Thai Town Noodle is our go-to spot for a quick and delicious lunch,” says Monrovia resident Emily R. “The food is always fresh and flavorful, and the prices are unbeatable. We love the Pad Thai and the Boat Noodle Soup.”
What makes Thai Town Noodle stand out is its focus on authentic Thai street food and its commitment to affordability. The restaurant offers a no-frills dining experience, but the food is consistently delicious and prepared with care. If you are looking for a quick, affordable, and flavorful Thai meal, Thai Town Noodle is a great choice.
Beyond the Restaurants: Exploring Thai Ingredients
While dining at Thai restaurants is a fantastic way to experience Thai cuisine, you can also bring the flavors of Thailand into your own kitchen. Several local markets and grocery stores in and around Monrovia offer a selection of Thai ingredients, allowing you to recreate your favorite dishes at home.
Asian markets such as H Mart and 99 Ranch Market, located in nearby cities like Arcadia and Rowland Heights, offer a wide variety of Thai ingredients, including fresh herbs, spices, sauces, noodles, and vegetables. You can find everything you need to make authentic Thai dishes, from galangal and lemongrass to fish sauce and tamarind paste.
In addition to Asian markets, some mainstream grocery stores in Monrovia also carry a selection of Thai ingredients. Look for Thai curry pastes, coconut milk, and rice noodles in the international aisle.
Unfortunately, Monrovia does not have any widely known Thai cooking classes. However, online resources such as YouTube and cooking blogs offer a wealth of information on Thai cuisine, allowing you to learn how to cook your favorite dishes from the comfort of your own home.
Most of the restaurants mentioned above offer takeout and delivery services. Services such as Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash make it easy to enjoy your favorite Thai dishes from the comfort of your own home.
Tips for Enjoying Thai Food in Monrovia
When dining at Thai restaurants in Monrovia, it’s important to be aware of the spice levels. Many Thai dishes are traditionally quite spicy, so be sure to ask your server about the spice level of each dish before ordering. Most restaurants can adjust the spice level to your preference.
If you’re new to Thai food, there are several popular dishes that are a great place to start. Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Tom Yum soup are all classic Thai dishes that are widely available and generally mild in spice.
Many Thai restaurants in Monrovia can accommodate dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free. Be sure to inform your server of any dietary restrictions when ordering, and they can help you choose dishes that meet your needs.
Reservations are recommended for some of the more popular Thai restaurants in Monrovia, especially during peak hours. Calling ahead to make a reservation can help you avoid a long wait.
Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of Thailand in Monrovia
Monrovia’s Thai food scene offers a delightful array of flavors and experiences, from the authentic dishes at Baan Thai to the modern creations at Lime Thai Fusion and the casual fare at Thai Town Noodle. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Monrovia has something to satisfy your cravings. Exploring the Thai restaurants in Monrovia is a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Thailand.
So, the next time you’re craving authentic Thai flavors, venture out to one of these fantastic restaurants in Monrovia. Discover your new favorite dish, and immerse yourself in the rich and diverse world of Thai cuisine. Your taste buds will thank you for exploring the best Thai food Monrovia has to offer. The vibrant flavors of Thailand are waiting to be discovered, right here in Monrovia.
