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Berkeley

Funky Elephant Berkeley is celebrated for its authentic Thai flavors, innovative dishes, and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons frequently commend the friendly service and the unique culinary experience offered. Signature dishes like the Party Wings, Green Papaya Salad, and Pad Thai Old Skool are particularly popular. The restaurant's cozy setting and modern decor contribute to its appeal, making it a favored spot for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Funky Elephant Berkeley: A Thai Culinary Gem on Ninth Street in West Berkeley California USA 94710  

Nestled in the heart of West Berkeley, Funky Elephant Berkeley offers an authentic taste of Thailand with a modern twist. This lively restaurant serves flavorful Thai street fare, including vibrant curries, noodles, and inventive dishes that keep locals and visitors coming back for more. Its convenient location on Ninth Street makes it an accessible hotspot for food lovers seeking an engaging dining experience in California's renowned culinary scene.

Distinctive Dining Experience and Menu Highlights

Funky Elephant Berkeley stands out with its stylish decor and vibrant ambiance that create a welcoming vibe for families, foodies, and groups. The restaurant presents a selection of dishes that focus on traditional Thai flavors while embracing creative presentations and fresh ingredients. Popular menu items include the crispy Party Wings, the refreshing Green Papaya Salad, and the beloved Pad Thai Old Skool — each crafted with care to deliver an authentic and memorable taste.

is available, making it a perfect spot to enjoy California’s mild weather while savoring delicious Thai cuisine. The patio is dog-friendly, enhancing the relaxed and community-oriented atmosphere.

What to Expect: Service, Ambience, and Practical Details

Guests consistently praise Funky Elephant for its friendly and attentive staff who contribute warmth to the dining experience. The restaurant accommodates diners looking for takeout and delivery options, as well as those who prefer to dine in a cozy, modern setting. While indoor seating is limited, the outdoor patio offers a refreshing alternative, although some patrons have suggested adding heat lamps to enhance comfort during cooler months.

are flexible, accepting credit, debit, and NFC payments, ensuring convenience for all customers. Free street and lot parking are available nearby, making access hassle-free for visitors.

Does Funky Elephant Berkeley accept reservations?

 No, Funky Elephant Berkeley operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations.

 Yes, Funky Elephant Berkeley offers gluten-free choices. It's best to inform the staff about any allergies or dietary restrictions for personalized recommendations.

 Yes, guests can enjoy dining on the outdoor patio, perfect for sunny days and pet owners.

 Funky Elephant Berkeley is open Tuesday to Sunday, serving lunch from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and dinner from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM. Closed on Mondays.

highlight the restaurant’s authentic flavors, innovative dishes, and the vibrant, inviting atmosphere. Diners especially appreciate the friendly service and unique decor, including fun features like disco-ball lighting in the bathrooms. Though some guests note that portion sizes can be modest, Funky Elephant Berkeley remains a beloved place for both casual outings and special occasions in Berkeley.

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Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of West Berkeley, Funky Elephant is a culinary gem that captures the essence of Thai street food with a modern twist. This charming restaurant, located at 1313 Ninth St Ste120, invites diners to indulge in a delightful array of flavors, all while enjoying a cozy atmosphere that is both stylish and welcoming. With its outdoor seating options, Funky Elephant is perfect for those looking to savor their meals al fresco, making it a popular spot for foodies and families alike.

Funky Elephant is renowned for its **signature dishes** that transport diners straight to the bustling streets of Thailand. The Drunken Mussels are a must-try, featuring plump mussels simmered in a spicy and aromatic broth, perfectly complemented by fresh herbs and a hint of lime. Another standout is the Motherland Curry, a rich and creamy dish that showcases a harmonious blend of spices, served with a side of fluffy jasmine rice. For those with a sweet tooth, the Fried Roti paired with Thai Tea Soft Serve is a delightful dessert that rounds off the meal beautifully.

What sets Funky Elephant apart is not just its delectable menu but also its **inviting ambiance**. The restaurant features a stylish decor that combines modern elements with a touch of traditional Thai culture. A fun fact that adds to its charm is the quirky bathroom, adorned with disco ball lights and checkered tiles, which has become a talking point among visitors. This attention to detail creates a unique dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more.

Conveniently located in Berkeley, Funky Elephant is surrounded by a plethora of attractions. Just a short stroll away, visitors can explore the vibrant arts scene, local boutiques, and parks that make this area so appealing. The nearby UC Berkeley campus adds a youthful energy to the neighborhood, making it a perfect stop for students and families alike.

Funky Elephant is known for its authentic Thai street food, particularly its Drunken Mussels and Motherland Curry.

Visitors are drawn to Funky Elephant for its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly service, making it a perfect dining spot for families and friends.

Funky Elephant offers free street parking and a parking lot for visitors.

Whether you're a local or just passing through, make sure to stop by Funky Elephant for a memorable dining experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart. With its inviting atmosphere and flavorful dishes, it’s a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss!

Modern quick-serve outpost dishing out classic Thai street fare such as curries & noodles.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2dVBIUHVnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJwxHmQs5-hYARx_GAYpuzBwo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2dVBIUHVnRRAB

I didn't take pictures of everything we got, but everything was so good!!! They have a great patio space so we were able to bring our dog, which is always a plus.

We got the drunken mussels, wings, motherland curry, and wholesome noodles. And we had to try the blue rice. Everything was flavorful and so perfectly done. If we had to pick a very favorite, it might be the mussels, but that's a hard choice to make.

We also had the fried roti with Thai tea soft serve for dessert. So good. Sarah was super friendly and so helpful, we're so glad we finally tried this place and will definitely be back.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2OTZmbkNREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJwxHmQs5-hYARx_GAYpuzBwo/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2OTZmbkNREAE

TL;DR:
This restaurant offers outdoor seating and a Michelin Guide Recommendation (2022), but the food is overpriced for its quality. The fried Brussels sprouts were excellent, while the Pad Thai was average and expensive. The service was attentive, likely due to being the only party there, but the overall experience doesn’t justify the cost. Unlikely to return.

Full Review:

This restaurant has limited indoor seating but compensates with an outdoor dining area that offers a comfortable alternative. While the ambiance might appeal to those who enjoy al fresco dining, the food was inconsistent and overpriced, especially given its Michelin Guide Recommendation in 2022.

Food:
The fried Brussels sprouts were the highlight of the meal—crispy, flavorful, and expertly prepared, showcasing creativity and attention to detail. Unfortunately, the Pad Thai was a letdown. It was lackluster, lacking the bold flavors and complexity one expects from such a staple dish, especially at its premium price.

Service:
The service was excellent, which can partly be attributed to the fact that we were the only party dining at the time. The staff was attentive, friendly, and accommodating, which added a pleasant touch to the overall experience.

Pricing:
Prices are steep, even for a Michelin-recommended establishment, and the food quality doesn’t consistently match the premium cost. While the Michelin recognition might draw in curious diners, it’s hard to justify the expense when only certain dishes shine.

Ambience:
The outdoor seating is a functional and pleasant option, but the limited indoor space may feel restrictive for those who prefer a more traditional dining setup. While the setting is adequate, it doesn’t quite elevate the dining experience.

Verdict:
Though the service was commendable and the Brussels sprouts were excellent, the average quality of the Pad Thai and the high prices overshadow the positives. Would I return? Most likely not, as the overall experience doesn’t justify the expense, Michelin recommendation notwithstanding.

Rating: 3/5

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMXBMbnNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJwxHmQs5-hYARx_GAYpuzBwo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMXBMbnNnRRAB

An excellent Thai restaurant a cut above the others in the area (and worth the modest price bump). The service was very friendly and the atmosphere is cute. The pad thai, crispy rice salad, and motherland curry were all outstanding. The only thing I wish they had was heat lamps for the outdoor seating, as it can get pretty cold out there. Will be coming back!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNRbUtxQ1BREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJwxHmQs5-hYARx_GAYpuzBwo/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTUNRbUtxQ1BREAE

Have gotten take out from this small but always busy restaurant near my house several times. Funky Elephant has garnered very good reviews, and the food—while not knock your socks off good—is decent bordering on solid.

What gets me is the small portions. So small that one order of yellow curry chicken was only enough to feed one person. They should either admit this and let diners know up front, or charge more and increase the portion size.

This is my main issue with Funky Elephant, when I spend $50 on two entrees, I would hope it could adequately feed two people and it doesn’t really deliver.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURnOHJhd3VRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJwxHmQs5-hYARx_GAYpuzBwo/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURnOHJhd3VRRRAB

A cute little Thai place with solid food. Their menu is more limited than a typical American Thai restaurant, but everything is made extremely well. Very stylish decor and the bathroom is a hoot with the disco ball party lights and checkered tile. I've never commented on a restaurant bathroom before but it was a surprise delight.

Experience Funky Elephant: Top Thai Restaurant in Berkeley, CA

Funky Elephant Berkeley, established in 2018, has quickly gained recognition for its modern take on traditional Thai cuisine. The restaurant's innovative approach and commitment to authenticity have earned it a spot in the Michelin Guide.

A selection of traditional and innovative Thai dishes blending authentic flavors with modern twists.

Party Wings

Green Papaya Salad

Crispy Rice Salad

Pad Thai Old Skool

K.M.G. #2

Gang Rawang Beef

O's Breakfast Grilled Pork

Motherland Curry with Wild Rock Cod

Hella Drunken Mussels

Mango Sticky Rice

Funky Elephant Berkeley Menu

Nestled in the heart of West Berkeley, Funky Elephant Berkeley offers a tantalizing journey through the vibrant world of Thai cuisine. This modern quick-serve outpost excels at serving classic Thai street fare with a creative flair, blending traditional flavors with contemporary twists that make every dish a memorable experience.

Begin your meal with an enticing selection of starters that perfectly balance bold spices and fresh ingredients. The Party Wings are a must-try, boasting crispy chicken wings glazed in a lively chili jam with hints of fish sauce and garnished with crunchy pork skin and fermented pork for a deep umami kick. For a refreshing contrast, the Green Papaya Salad bursts with tangy lime, fiery chilies, garlic, and the subtle sweetness of palm sugar, creating a vibrant and invigorating palate cleanser.

Another standout is the Crispy Rice Salad, offering a delightful texture play with crunchy rice combined with savory fermented pork and fresh herbs atop crisp lettuce — a dish that showcases the kitchen's attention to authentic Thai flavor profiles.

The mains at Funky Elephant Berkeley are crafted to impress, from comforting classics to innovative house specialties. Savor the Pad Thai Old Skool, featuring perfectly cooked rice noodles, succulent shrimp, silky tofu, and egg, all tossed in tamarind sauce and sprinkled with crunchy peanuts for that authentic sweet-and-sour harmony.

For a heartier option, the K.M.G. #2 delivers tender poached chicken thigh atop fragrant garlic ginger rice, accented with soy sauce and a subtle chili heat that lingers pleasantly. If you crave something richly indulgent, the Gang Rawang Beef offers grilled ribeye drenched in a creamy green curry sauce with coconut milk, Thai basil, and peppery watercress, a sublime melding of robust flavors and luxurious textures.

The O's Breakfast Grilled Pork is a bold and savory choice, featuring char-grilled pork steak paired with a fried egg, dusted with rice powder, and served with tangy Nam Jim Jaew sauce and fresh slaw — a dish that perfectly balances smoky, spicy, and crisp elements.

Seafood lovers will delight in the Motherland Curry with Wild Rock Cod, where tender fish is bathed in a fragrant curry sauce with vermicelli, cabbage, and fresh herbs for a comforting yet vibrant dish. Don't miss the Hella Drunken Mussels, simmered in chili jam, Thai basil, garlic, and Asian rice wine, providing a spicy, aromatic experience that's both indulgent and addictive.

Complete your meal with the beloved Thai classic, Mango Sticky Rice. This dessert pairs sweet, ripe mango with rich coconut milk-soaked sticky rice, delivering a luscious finish that perfectly complements the bold flavors of your meal.

Funky Elephant Berkeley also offers a thoughtfully curated selection of beverages including beer and wine, perfectly suited to complement their flavorful dishes. While the menu embraces a classic Thai street food ethos, the kitchen's creative touches and dedication to quality make this spot a standout in Berkeley's vibrant dining scene.

 Party Wings, Green Papaya Salad, Crispy Rice Salad

 Pad Thai Old Skool, K.M.G. #2, Gang Rawang Beef, O's Breakfast Grilled Pork, Motherland Curry with Wild Rock Cod, Hella Drunken Mussels

Discover Funky Elephant in Berkeley, CA – a vibrant eatery serving unique dishes in a lively atmosphere. Savor unforgettable flavors today!

Funky Elephant: Unique Berkeley Eatery on Ninth St

Alameda County

Funky Elephant Berkeley

Enjoy your meal in a cozy outdoor setting.

Outdoor Seating

Delivery

Takeout

Experience the ambiance of our restaurant.

Dine-in

Experience the vibrant flavors of Thai street fare at Funky Elephant Berkeley.

Nestled in the heart of West Berkeley, Funky Elephant Berkeley invites food lovers to a modern quick-serve Thai dining experience that perfectly balances authentic flavors with a trendy, welcoming vibe. Whether you're craving curry, noodles, or something uniquely adventurous like their famed blue rice, this spot delivers a flavorful journey through classic Thai street cuisine.

drunken mussels, motherland curry, crispy rice salad,

 and the crowd-favorite fried Brussels sprouts. For dessert, indulge in the decadent fried roti paired with Thai tea soft serve, a sweet ending that keeps guests coming back. Vegetarian options are thoughtfully crafted, ensuring everyone finds a delicious choice.

Funky Elephant Berkeley offers both a cozy indoor space and a charming outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a meal with friends, family, or even your furry companion—dog-friendly seating is a plus! The stylish decor, complete with playful disco ball lights in the restroom, adds a quirky touch to your dining adventure. While the indoor seating is limited, the outdoor area provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, ideal for those who love to soak up the California sunshine.

 to enjoy your meal in a cozy, fresh-air setting.

 available for those busy days when you want Thai flavors at home.

 with attentive service in a stylish, intimate environment.

Funky Elephant Berkeley is a great choice for groups and families alike, with kid-friendly dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. Parking options include free street and lot parking, ensuring easy access. The restaurant accepts multiple payment methods including credit, debit cards, and NFC payments, adding to the convenience of your visit. While breakfast isn't served, you'll find an excellent selection for lunch and dinner, complemented by beer and wine choices to pair with your meal.

 for a crispy, flavorful starter that regulars rave about.

 on warmer days to enjoy dining with your dog or friends in the fresh air.

 paired with Thai tea soft serve for a sweet and unique treat.

California

Discover Funky Elephant Berkeley, a top Thai restaurant in West Berkeley known for its innovative dishes, outdoor seating, and friendly vibe. Visit us today!

Funky Elephant Berkeley - Authentic Thai Cuisine in West Berkeley

Enjoy modern Thai flavors at Funky Elephant Berkeley in West Berkeley, featuring signature dishes, outdoor seating, and a cozy setting. Book your table now!

Explore Funky Elephant Berkeley - Modern Thai Cuisine & Unique Atmosphere

Experience authentic Thai street food with a modern twist at Funky Elephant Berkeley, located in West Berkeley. Perfect for casual meals and outdoor dining. Join us!

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