Here in Berkeley, we have no shortage of Thai restaurants to try. We at the Clog crave this spicy, flavorful cuisine. So with all the options, how are you to choose which restaurant you and your friends should check out next? Luckily, we’re here to help. Here’s a short guide to all the hot Thai spots around campus.
Imm Thai
Imm Thai in Downtown Berkeley is the perfect restaurant for a night out. Its modern, chic ambiance and tasty cuisine are perfect for a weekend date night. Our personal favorite is its crispy, tempura-style pumpkin served with a tangy sauce. Also be sure to try the Pad Kee Moa, but just a note of caution: It can be super spicy.
Bangkok Noodles & Thai BBQ
While other restaurants in Downtown Berkeley might be closed by early morning, Bangkok Noodles & Thai BBQ sure isn’t. It delivers until 10 p.m. and is open until 1:30 a.m. every day. Its dishes, many specialty dishes we haven’t seen offered elsewhere in the city, are affordable at less than nine dollars, and its portions are pretty generous. We at the Clog are obsessed with the different sauces it has available at its tables, so don’t be afraid to pile some on to your next meal.
Lucky House
Lucky House Thai is a great place to check out for Sunday lunch, when it offers the free Thai tea special. Its dishes are traditional, without fuss, and it has generous portions. Our personal favorite is the yellow curry with tofu that you can get for just less than eight dollars.
Chaam
Looking for a good sit-down lunch in the middle of the week? Then Chaam is the place to go. Located in Gourmet Ghetto, Chaam has a classy style and is located in a converted house. It serves all your favorite Thai dishes, and the meals are prepared quickly. They can also accommodate large groups with advanced notice. Try sitting in its beautiful covered patio, and be sure to order the thai iced coffee.
Thai Basil
Just about everyone knows about Thai Basil in Asian Ghetto, one of the best places to check out if you’re in Southside late at night. If you are craving a cheap and spicy bite, it’ll still be open when your physics midterm gets out at 9:30 p.m. Its takeout is also prepared fairly quickly given the demand on busy weekend nights. Just don’t forget that this restaurant is cash only.
Racha Cafe
Racha Cafe is perfect for large groups and is located conveniently on Telegraph Avenue. For your next club banquet, look into reserving their back room, which easily fits a couple dozen people. Try their Pad Thai with tofu that will satisfy vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
We hope this helps you satisfy your Thai food craving, Bears.