image of Khao Tiew
Khao Tiew

San Francisco, United States

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Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's West Portal neighborhood, Khao Tiew is a must-visit Thai restaurant that delivers an immersive and authentic taste of Thailand's rich street food culture. This bustling eatery offers a vibrant dining experience with dishes bursting with bold, nuanced flavors that transport you straight to the bustling markets of Bangkok. Whether you're a foodie eager to explore unique Thai specialties or a local looking for a lively spot to share flavorful meals with friends, Khao Tiew promises a memorable culinary journey.

An Exciting Menu with Unique Thai Flavors

Khao Tiew stands out with its diverse menu that ventures beyond conventional Thai dishes. Highlights include the perfectly cooked Panama duck curry and the combo poached/fried chicken & rice that have quickly become fan favorites for their juicy, flavorful profiles. Adventurous eaters will appreciate unique offerings like steam eggs in Tom Yum sauce and a creative take on papaya salad, which adds a crispy twist to this classic dish. For dessert, the burnt butter Kaya toast is a delightful treat best shared, combining incredible texture and rich flavor.

What to Expect When You Visit

The atmosphere at Khao Tiew is lively and inviting, often buzzing with chatter and energy that reflects the warm Thai dining culture. The restaurant welcomes groups and families alike, with seating designed to encourage sharing and social dining. Service is noted for being attentive and friendly, enhancing the overall experience. Keep in mind that this popular spot can get quite busy, especially during dinner hours, so planning ahead is wise.
  • Dine-in and takeout available with a focus on fresh, made-to-order dishes.
  • Serves beer, wine, and flavorful Thai iced tea to perfectly complement your meal.
  • Family and group friendly with vegetarian options available to satisfy diverse dietary preferences.
  • Conveniently located near public transit with free and paid street parking options nearby.

Community Sentiment and Dining Tips

Khao Tiew enjoys a positive reputation among locals and visitors alike for its authentic Thai cuisine and warm hospitality. While some patrons mention the wait times due to the restaurant's popularity, most agree that the flavorful dishes and friendly service make it worth the effort. To avoid long waits, it's highly recommended to make reservations for larger groups or join the Yelp waitlist in advance. The restaurant’s commitment to bold, street food-inspired flavors ensures a satisfying experience that keeps guests coming back.

Frequently Asked Questions about Khao Tiew

  • What are the operating hours of Khao Tiew? Khao Tiew operates from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM, Wednesday through Monday, and is closed on Tuesdays.
  • Does Khao Tiew accept reservations? Reservations are accepted for parties of six or more. For smaller parties, it's recommended to join the Yelp waitlist ahead of time.
  • Is there parking available at Khao Tiew? Street parking is available near the restaurant. Additionally, the West Portal Muni station is just 1.5 blocks away, providing convenient public transportation access.

Discover the rich story of Khao Tiew: a modern Thai culinary gem in San Francisco's West Portal district.

Nestled at 272 Claremont Blvd in the charming neighborhood of West Portal, San Francisco, Khao Tiew opened its doors in March 2024, quickly making a name for itself as a standout Thai restaurant. With a perfect blend of authentic flavors and innovative twists, this cozy eatery invites diners to embark on a flavorful journey inspired by Thailand's vibrant street food culture.

A vibrant start in 2024

Since its grand opening in early 2024, Khao Tiew has captivated the West Portal community and visitors alike with its bold approach to traditional Thai cuisine. The restaurant’s interior features vintage Thai advertisements and classic movie posters, creating an immersive and nostalgic atmosphere that complements its menu perfectly.

Signature dishes and culinary innovation

Khao Tiew’s menu features exciting takes on classic Thai dishes, including the beloved Duck Breast Panang Curry and Khao Pad Mun Nuer (fried rice with beef). Guests rave about how these plates capture the essence of Thailand’s street food scene while offering something new and memorable.
  • A welcoming ambiance featuring vintage Thai ads and movie posters that transport diners to Thailand’s vibrant markets.
  • Bold and authentic flavors that evoke the rich culinary heritage of Thailand paired with modern culinary techniques.
  • Highly recommended dishes including Duck Breast Panang Curry and Khao Pad Mun Nuer that showcase skill and creativity.
The rapid rise of Khao Tiew since its 2024 debut reflects not only the growing popularity of Thai cuisine in San Francisco but also the restaurant's dedication to delivering an authentic and memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Thai food or exploring it for the first time, Khao Tiew offers a flavorful escape that celebrates tradition with a contemporary edge.

Plan your visit

Located in the heart of West Portal, Khao Tiew welcomes guests for both lunch and dinner with dine-in and takeout options. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity. Come taste the vibrant flavors and enjoy a warm atmosphere that transports you straight to the streets of Thailand.

Khao Tiew at a glance

Located at 272 Claremont Blvd in San Francisco, Khao Tiew is a vibrant Thai restaurant that brings authentic flavors with a modern twist. Known for its unique dishes and cozy ambiance, it has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
With a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, Khao Tiew offers a menu that is both diverse and enticing. From traditional favorites to innovative creations, each dish is crafted to delight the palate.
Khao Tiew has quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional dining experience, making reservations highly recommended.

Pros

  • Authentic Thai flavors with modern twists
  • Friendly and attentive service
  • Cozy and energetic ambiance
  • Pet-friendly environment
  • Gluten-free and vegan options available
  • Unique and flavorful dishes
  • Convenient location near West Portal Station
  • Online ordering and takeout options

Cons

  • Long wait times during peak hours
  • Limited reservations (only for parties of six or more)
  • Street parking availability may vary

Ideal for

Khao Tiew is perfect for food lovers seeking a unique dining experience, families looking for a pet-friendly environment, and groups wanting to share flavorful dishes. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, this restaurant caters to diverse tastes and preferences.

Things to know before visiting

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak dining hours. Be prepared for potential wait times if you drop in without a reservation. The restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free and vegan options, making it accessible for various dietary needs.

Overall impression

Khao Tiew stands out as a vibrant addition to San Francisco's culinary scene. With its authentic flavors, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere, it offers a delightful dining experience. While it may have some wait times and limited reservations, the unique dishes and overall ambiance make it worth the visit.

4.6

Closed - Opens 4:00 PM

Monday

16:00–20:30

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

16:00–20:30

Thursday

16:00–20:30

Friday

16:00–20:30

Saturday

16:00–20:30

Sunday

16:00–20:30

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