Jitlada Restaurant Los Angeles Culinary Gem on West Sunset Boulevard

Nestled in the vibrant East Hollywood neighborhood, Jitlada Restaurant offers an exceptional dive into authentic Southern Thai cuisine, drawing both local foodies and adventurous travelers alike to 5233 West Sunset Boulevard. Bold flavors and an extensive menu featuring regional specialties set Jitlada apart from typical Thai spots. Whether you crave the tangy Pad Thai with tamarind sauce or the crunchy garlic soft shell crabs, every dish bursts with complex layers of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory notes.

A vibrant dining experience for groups and families

Jitlada's bustling atmosphere perfectly complements its menu, making it ideal for group dinners and family outings. Although the interior is modest and located in a strip-mall setting, the lively vibe and attentive service (with some occasional inconsistencies) keep guests coming back for more.

Parking and accessibility tips

Visitors should prepare for limited parking options, with mainly free street parking and a small free lot available. The restaurant does not offer valet service, so arriving early or carpooling can make your visit smoother. Good news for those with mobility needs: Jitlada is wheelchair accessible.

Ordering and dining essentials

Jitlada serves lunch and dinner with dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. While cocktails and brunch are not available, you can enjoy authentic Thai coffee, beer, wine, and an enticing dessert selection. The kitchen accommodates vegetarian guests with flavorful plant-based dishes and welcomes groups with open arms.

Is Jitlada Restaurant open on Mondays? No, Jitlada Restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Does Jitlada offer delivery services? Yes, Jitlada provides delivery services for customers.
Is parking available at Jitlada Restaurant? Parking can be challenging, with limited space available.
Are reservations accepted at Jitlada Restaurant? No, Jitlada does not accept reservations.
Is Jitlada Restaurant wheelchair accessible? Yes, the restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

Community sentiment and final thoughts

Jitlada garners a mixed but passionate community sentiment. Diners rave about the bold, authentic flavors and standout dishes like the yellow curry with prawn and the crabmeat fried rice. Some have noted occasional service delays and crowded conditions, yet most agree the culinary quality and lively atmosphere justify the splurge and wait. Discover Jitlada for a richly textured journey through Southern Thailand right in the heart of Los Angeles.

Jitlada Restaurant History and Legacy in Los Angeles CA USA.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of East Hollywood at 5233 West Sunset Boulevard, Jitlada Restaurant stands as a beacon of authentic Southern Thai cuisine in Los Angeles. Since its establishment in the 1970s, it has attracted food enthusiasts eager to experience the bold and nuanced flavors emblematic of Thailand's southern region. Over the decades, Jitlada has grown from a modest eatery into a culinary landmark cherished by both locals and visitors.

Founding and early decades

Jitlada opened its doors in the 1970s, bringing an authentic taste of Southern Thailand to the heart of Los Angeles. Its early years focused on delivering traditional dishes made with fresh ingredients and rich spices, sparking a loyal following. The restaurant’s location in a bustling strip mall initially belied the quality and complexity of the cuisine inside, quickly earning it a reputation among dedicated foodies.

Expansion and evolution under family ownership

In 2007, a pivotal change occurred when siblings Suthiporn 'Tui' Sungkamee and Sarintip 'Jazz' Singsanong took over the helm of Jitlada. Their leadership brought a fresh vision, expanding the menu to include regional specialties from their Southern Thai hometown. This move enriched the restaurant’s offerings, introducing diners to a broader and more authentic spectrum of southern Thai flavors, from fiery curries to uniquely textured salads.

Suthiporn 'Tui' Sungkamee was a driving force behind this culinary expansion until his passing in 2017, leaving a profound legacy through the restaurant’s continued commitment to bold, authentic flavors.

Cultural recognition and media acclaim

Jitlada’s dedication to authentic Southern Thai cuisine has not gone unnoticed. In 2021, the restaurant was featured on the popular television show Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, bringing national attention to its distinctive dishes and rich culinary heritage. This exposure helped cement Jitlada’s place as a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking genuine Thai flavors in Los Angeles.

Key historical milestones

1970 - Jitlada Restaurant established, introducing Southern Thai cuisine to Los Angeles.
2007 - Siblings Suthiporn 'Tui' Sungkamee and Sarintip 'Jazz' Singsanong took ownership and expanded the menu.
2017 - The passing of Suthiporn 'Tui' Sungkamee marked the end of an era.
2021 - Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, highlighting its authentic Southern Thai dishes.

Experience authentic Southern Thai cuisine at Jitlada Restaurant in Los Angeles.

Nestled in the vibrant East Hollywood neighborhood, Jitlada has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for lovers of bold and spicy Thai flavors. Diners praise its authentic Southern Thai cuisine that bursts with nuanced tastes, featuring an extensive and diverse menu that caters to adventurous palates looking for a variety of spicy dishes. The restaurant’s casual and lively atmosphere makes it a welcoming spot for groups and solo diners alike, while being wheelchair accessible adds to its inclusivity.

Guests often highlight standout dishes such as the Pad Thai Tamarind Sauce with Mixed Seafood, flavorful Garlic Red Snapper, and the crispy Garlic Soft Shell Crabs. Vegetarian options are also thoughtfully prepared, appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner, beer, wine, coffee, and dessert, but does not offer brunch or cocktails, focusing on delivering quality Thai flavors in a straightforward menu.

Considerations before your visit

While Jitlada’s culinary offerings are exceptional, visitors should be prepared for some practical challenges. Parking is limited, with options including free parking lots and street parking, though paid street parking is also available. The restaurant does not accept reservations, which can result in long wait times during peak hours. The interior is known to be somewhat cramped, and the service speed may vary, with some guests noting inconsistent experiences depending on the staff and time of day.

Why Jitlada stands out

Authentic Southern Thai cuisine
Extensive and diverse menu
Spicy dishes for adventurous eaters
Casual and lively atmosphere
Wheelchair accessible

In summary, Jitlada offers a rare taste of authentic Southern Thailand right in Los Angeles, appealing to those who crave complex, spicy flavors and a vibrant dining environment. While it comes with some logistical challenges like parking and wait times, the food quality and diverse menu continue to make it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking an outstanding Thai culinary adventure.

3.9

5233 W Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA

(323) 667-9809

Open Now - Closing 10:00 PM

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:00–15:00, 16:30–22:00

Wednesday

11:00–15:00, 16:30–22:00

Thursday

11:00–15:00, 16:30–22:00