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San Francisco

Thai Chef in San Francisco's Castro district is praised for its authentic Thai cuisine, friendly service, and cozy atmosphere. While some reviews mention small portion sizes and higher prices, the overall sentiment is favorable.

Discover Authentic Thai Flavors at Thai Chef in The Castro

Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's iconic Castro neighborhood, Thai Chef offers a genuine taste of Thailand that delights both locals and visitors alike. This charming restaurant is renowned for its authentic Thai dishes crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional spices, delivering an unforgettable dining experience.

A Menu That Celebrates Thai Culinary Traditions

From the zesty chicken salad (larb) to the rich and flavorful curries, Thai Chef serves a variety of dishes that capture the essence of Thailand’s diverse regional flavors. Highlights include the Pad Thai, crispy chicken fried rice, luscious roasted duck curry, and the must-try appetizers such as chicken satay and curry puffs. Vegetarian options abound, ensuring everyone can savor the true taste of Thailand.

 is a popular dessert here, offering a sweet, tropical finish—available seasonally based on mango availability.

Beyond its delicious menu, Thai Chef is known for its warm, attentive service and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for family meals, friendly gatherings, or even a solo culinary adventure. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery options through DoorDash and UberEats, catering to your convenience. It’s also wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, with a focus on accommodating diverse needs.

 with flavorful dishes like the Tom Yum soup, which many patrons regard as the best in the city.

Thai Chef enjoys a positive reputation within the San Francisco community for its authentic Thai cuisine and friendly staff. Diners appreciate the cozy setting in the Castro neighborhood and the genuine flavors that transport taste buds straight to Thailand. While some find the portions modest and prices slightly on the higher side, the majority celebrate the quality and service that make every visit worthwhile.

What are the operating hours of Thai Chef?

 Thai Chef operates Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 8:45 PM; Thursday from 5:00 PM to 8:45 PM; and is closed on Tuesdays.

 Yes, Thai Chef offers delivery through DoorDash and UberEats.

 Yes, Thai Chef is wheelchair accessible.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant heart of The Castro, San Francisco, **Thai Chef** is a culinary gem that invites you to indulge in authentic Thai flavors. With its warm ambiance and friendly service, this restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's an experience that transports you straight to Thailand. The tantalizing aroma of spices wafts through the air, promising a feast for the senses.

The menu at Thai Chef is a delightful journey through Thailand's rich culinary landscape. Start your meal with the **Tom Yum Soup**, a fragrant broth brimming with shrimp, lemongrass, and a hint of lime that dances on your palate. For the main course, the **Pad Thai** is a must-try, featuring perfectly stir-fried rice noodles tossed with fresh vegetables, peanuts, and your choice of protein, all enveloped in a savory sauce that balances sweet and tangy notes.

One of the standout features of Thai Chef is its commitment to authenticity. The owners, who hail from Thailand, ensure that every dish is prepared with traditional techniques and fresh ingredients. A fun fact: the restaurant often sources its herbs directly from local markets, ensuring that each dish bursts with flavor. The friendly staff is always eager to share their recommendations, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

 Thai Chef is renowned for its authentic Thai cuisine, especially its flavorful soups and stir-fried dishes.

 The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and a menu filled with traditional Thai flavors.

 Located in The Castro, visitors can explore vibrant shops, cafes, and the iconic Castro Theatre.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to stop by Thai Chef to savor the authentic flavors of Thailand. With its inviting atmosphere and delectable dishes, it promises a memorable dining experience that will have you coming back for more.

Thai spot popular for takeout that serves up traditional appetizers, pan-fried noodles & veggies.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfOXFLQ3N3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiXWwzgR-j4ARukeHBGx5rQQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfOXFLQ3N3RRAB

came in around 6:30pm on a wednesday evening and got seated immediately.

ordered the chicken salad, which is sometimes called larb on the menu in other thai restaurants. flavor was good though i wish it was spicier. none of the entrees or salads come with rice. decent food for the price.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURudHFtV2N3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiXWwzgR-j4ARukeHBGx5rQQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURudHFtV2N3EAE

Nice Thai spot in the heart of the Castro. Great food, I had the crispy chicken friend rice while the rest of my party had Pad Thai, roasted duck curry, fried wonton and shrimp rolls.

Highly recommend for a family/friend meal or even a solo trip.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURwMHRpeWlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiXWwzgR-j4ARukeHBGx5rQQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURwMHRpeWlnRRAB

Their Thai food is very authentic! The fried rice is very tasty and very much like the Thailand. The noodle dishes are very good too especially Lad Na, thick noodle with gravy. I had it with Tofu and it was wonderful. Pad see ew, stirred fried noodle with pork is also good. Last but not least, the beef noodle is very Thai style and yummy. Chicken satay and Curry puff are a must for appetizer. We had mango sticky rice as dessert (depending on mango availability). The owners are very kind and service are super great. We could not be more happier to be at that place.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzbDRlaER3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiXWwzgR-j4ARukeHBGx5rQQ/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzbDRlaER3EAE

Great place foe delicious foiod, friendly and fast service at a reasonable price. Best Tom Yum soup I've ever had.

Servings are generous and flavorful. They are willing to swap ingredients if you wish to customize your rider.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNOeHRhSjNnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJiXWwzgR-j4ARukeHBGx5rQQ/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNOeHRhSjNnRRAB

Amazing food and service! Curry was so flavorful, tasty, and soothing. Staff was friendly and super helpful with giving me recommendations and their personal favorites. Service was fast too. Great experience and highly recommend!

Authentic Thai Cuisine in The Castro, San Francisco

Thai Chef is a Thai restaurant located at 4133 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94114, in the Castro district. It is known for its authentic Thai cuisine and has been serving the community for several years.

Thai chef in san francisco's castro district history overview

Nestled in the vibrant Castro district of San Francisco, Thai Chef has been a beloved culinary gem since its inception in 2010. This authentic Thai restaurant at 4133 18th Street quickly became known for delivering genuine Thai flavors to locals and visitors alike. Over the years, it has cultivated a reputation for traditional dishes that capture the essence of Thailand's rich culinary heritage.

By 2015, Thai Chef had expanded its menu significantly to include a wider variety of traditional Thai dishes. This expansion allowed the restaurant to showcase the diversity of Thai cuisine, from spicy curries and stir-fried noodles to fresh appetizers and fragrant rice dishes. The menu growth reflected a deeper commitment to offering an authentic and memorable dining experience for a broad audience, including families, food enthusiasts, and solo diners.

embracing delivery and modern dining trends

In response to evolving customer preferences and the rise of food delivery platforms, Thai Chef began offering delivery services in 2020 through DoorDash and UberEats. This strategic move broadened its reach, allowing more patrons to enjoy their flavorful dishes from the comfort of home. Despite adopting modern conveniences, the restaurant has maintained its focus on authentic preparation and high-quality ingredients, ensuring each meal embodies the true spirit of Thai cooking.

 with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients that capture the essence of Thailand.

 that grew significantly after 2015 to showcase a broad spectrum of Thai dishes, appealing to all palates.

 introduced in 2020, enabling customers to enjoy their favorite Thai dishes conveniently from home.

 with a welcoming atmosphere for families, friends, and solo diners in the heart of the Castro neighborhood.

Dine In

Takeout

Delivery

Restroom

Good for Groups

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Good for Children

Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Thai Chef in The Castro, San Francisco. A must-visit restaurant for food lovers!

Thai Chef

Authentic Thai cuisine featuring a variety of appetizers, entrees, curries, and desserts.

Spicy Basil

Pra Ram

Sautéed Eggplant

Spicy Fresh Ginger

Garlic Pepper

Sautéed Baby Corn

Mixed Vegetables

Sautéed Broccoli

Spicy Fresh Chili

Spicy String Beans

Chicken Cashew Nut

B.B.Q

Sautéed Silver Noodles

Kin Na Ree

Duck Basil

Roasted Duck

Song Sa Hai

Phuket Skewer

Three Taste Panang

Spicy Prawns

Spicy Fish

Fried Duck with Crispy Chinese Broccoli

Soft Shell Crab Lover

Clay Pot Seafood

Spicy Trout Fish

Prawn Asparagus

Tamarind Fish

Ginger Fish

Seafood Salad

Appetizer Combo

Thai Chef Spring Rolls

Thai Chef Fresh Spring Rolls

Fried Wonton

Fried Tofu

Fried Corn Cake

Fish Cake

Chicken Sa-Tay

Shrimp Rolls

Garlic Quail

Calamari Tempura

Angel Prawns

Soft Shell Crab

Fried Banana with Honey

Roti with Sweet Condensed Milk

Sweet Sticky Rice with Thai Custard

Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango

Thai Chef Menu

Discover the vibrant flavors of Thai Chef in the Castro, San Francisco

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s lively Castro district, Thai Chef invites food lovers to indulge in authentic Thai cuisine that brilliantly balances bold spices and fresh ingredients. This bustling eatery is renowned for its comprehensive menu that showcases traditional appetizers, hearty mains, and delightful desserts, perfect for foodies seeking genuine Southeast Asian flavors.

Begin your culinary journey with a variety of delicately crafted appetizers offering a spectrum of textures and flavors. The Crispy Fried Quail drizzled with pepper and garlic pairs wonderfully with the sweet and sour sauce, while Angel Prawns provide a crunchy bite featuring minced coconut and plum sauce. For lighter options, the Fresh Spring Rolls filled with tofu, shrimp, and crisp vegetables come with a tangy tamarind dipping sauce. Don't miss the Fried Corn Cake with refreshing cucumber salad or the flavorful Chicken Sa-Tay skewers served with peanut sauce.

Mains bursting with authentic Thai flavors

Thai Chef’s mains are a celebration of vibrant ingredients and traditional recipes. Dive into the Spicy Basil, a fragrant dish with sweet basil, bamboo shoot, chili, onions, and garlic that delivers a satisfying kick. The Pra Ram offers a creamy peanut sauce over mixed vegetables and spinach — a perfect vegetarian delight. Seafood lovers will appreciate the Clay Pot Seafood loaded with prawns, calamari, scallops, mussels, fish, and fresh vegetables simmered in rich curry paste. For a taste of succulent game, the Roasted Duck with Thai spices and sweet and sour sauce is unforgettable. The menu also features an array of pan-fried noodles such as the Sautéed Silver Noodles with prawns, chicken, egg, tomatoes, and onions, and the Kin Na Ree, a hearty combination of seafood and chicken with baby corn and mushrooms.

 – Sweet basil, bamboo shoot, chili, onions, and garlic.

 – Mixed vegetables and spinach in a rich peanut sauce.

 – A medley of prawns, calamari, scallops, mussels, fish, zucchini, and carrots in curry paste.

 – Roasted duck seasoned with Thai spices and served with sweet and sour sauce.

No meal at Thai Chef is complete without sampling their traditional desserts. Indulge in the Sweet Sticky Rice with Mango, a beloved classic combining luscious ripe mango with creamy sticky rice. The Sweet Sticky Rice with Thai Custard offers a rich and comforting finish, while the Fried Banana with Honey provides a warm, sweet crunch. For a simple yet satisfying treat, the Roti drizzled with sweet condensed milk rounds out your Thai dining experience perfectly.

Pair your feast with a selection from Thai Chef’s range of refreshing drinks, including authentic Thai iced coffee and tea, as well as carefully chosen beers and wines to suit every palate. Whether you're dining in or ordering takeout, these beverages provide a refreshing balance to the vibrant and spicy flavors of the cuisine.

Savor authentic Thai cuisine at Thai Chef in the vibrant Castro district of San Francisco. Experience bold flavors and inviting atmosphere – reserve your table now!

Authentic Thai Cuisine in San Francisco's Castro

San Francisco County

Order your favorite Thai meals for delivery through DoorDash or UberEats.

Delivery via DoorDash or UberEats

Enjoy authentic Thai cuisine in-house or opt for takeout.

Dine-in & Pickup

Discover authentic Thai cuisine at Thai Chef in The Castro San Francisco.

Nestled in the lively heart of The Castro, San Francisco, Thai Chef offers an immersive taste of traditional Thai flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting. This gem is well-loved for its genuine dishes crafted with care, making it a go-to spot for locals and visitors craving a rich culinary experience that feels like a trip to Thailand without leaving California.

Menu highlights and authentic dishes to savor

Thai Chef stands out for its flavorful appetizers like chicken satay and curry puffs, perfectly complemented by signature entrees including the crispy chicken fried rice and the richly spiced roasted duck curry. Noodle lovers rave about the Lad Na, a thick noodle dish with savory gravy, and the Pad See Ew, a savory stir-fried noodle with pork. Don't miss the fiery larb chicken salad, a refreshing yet zesty Thai classic.

 will appreciate the range of delicious meat-free options, including tofu-enhanced noodle dishes that capture authentic flavors without compromise.

Convenient dining options and excellent service

Whether you're planning a relaxed dinner with friends, a family meal, or a solo dining experience, Thai Chef caters to all with friendly, attentive staff and speedy service. Guests can enjoy dining inside the cozy restaurant or opt for efficient takeout. For those staying in or on the go, delivery is readily available via popular platforms like DoorDash and UberEats.

 is hassle-free with acceptance of credit, debit, and NFC options, making your visit seamless.

 inspired by traditional Thai cuisine with generous portions.

 offering everything from spicy salads to savory curries and fried rice.

 including dine-in, takeout, and delivery for ultimate convenience.

 atmosphere suitable for groups and children alike.

Authentic Thai Cuisine in The Castro, San Francisco

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