Holy Basil’s Incredible Expansion: Santa Monica Gets a Taste of Bangkok

The vibrant culinary landscape of Los Angeles is about to welcome a new addition with the opening of Holy Basil’s latest location in Santa Monica. Chef Wedchayan “Deau” Arpapornnopparat, known for his exceptional Bangkok-style Thai cuisine, is set to bring his highly-acclaimed restaurant to 2828 Santa Monica Boulevard. The opening is anticipated for late February or early March, marking a significant expansion from its origins as a food stall in the Fashion District food hall. Holy Basil initially gained popularity by serving Thai-style street food favorites such as pad see ew and gra pow. Over time, it evolved into a full-service restaurant in Atwater Village, offering a more comprehensive menu that includes dishes like scallops on the half-shell, crudo, and crab fried rice. The new Santa Monica outpost will feature a menu closely aligned with the Atwater Village offerings, along with special dishes tailored to the local neighborhood.

The Vibrant Thai Culinary Scene in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is renowned for its diverse culinary offerings, and Thai cuisine holds a special place in the hearts of many Angelenos. From Hollywood’s Thai Town to the far reaches of the Valley, the city boasts an array of Thai restaurants that cater to all palates. Among these, Jitlada stands out as a cult favorite, offering fiery Southern Thai specialties such as the crispy morning glory salad and green mussel curry. Luv2Eat Thai Bistro, another gem in East Hollywood, serves up authentic Southern Thai dishes inspired by family recipes, including the Phuket-style crab curry Kanomjean.

Holy Basil, with its roots in the Santee Passage food court, has carved a niche for itself by using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and unapologetically spicy. Chef Deau and his partner, Tongkamal “Joy” Yuon, have consistently impressed diners with their take on Southeast Asian flavors, offering dishes like pad kee mao and green curry. The Atwater Village location, with its limited seating, has become a destination for those seeking a more intimate dining experience with chef-driven dishes.

A Look at Los Angeles’s Best Thai Restaurants

The Thai culinary scene in Los Angeles is as diverse as it is delicious. From the bustling streets of Thai Town to the quieter neighborhoods of the Westside, there’s no shortage of exceptional Thai eateries. Ruen Pair, a staple in Thai Town, is known for its enticing central Thai menu, featuring shareable plates like fish cake pad ka prow and the must-try fried egg with salted turnip. Northern Thai Food Club offers a taste of Northern Thailand with its khao soi, a popular curry noodle dish, and spicy pork sausage.
Anajak Thai Cuisine in Sherman Oaks, led by James Beard award-winning chef Justin Pichetrungsi, has gained fame for its Thai Taco Tuesdays and seasonal omakase nights. Meanwhile, Kinkan in Virgil Village offers a unique seafood-centric tasting menu with Thai and Japanese influences, providing a refined dining experience. Chao Krung Restaurant, one of the oldest Thai establishments in the city, continues to delight diners with its aromatic jungle curry and crispy mussel pancake.

Our Advice on the City

For those exploring Los Angeles’s rich culinary tapestry, a visit to its Thai restaurants is a must. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, immersing yourself in the diverse flavors and vibrant atmosphere of these eateries offers a unique insight into the city’s cultural melting pot. From the fiery dishes of Jitlada to the innovative creations at Holy Basil, there’s something for every palate.
In conclusion, Los Angeles’s Thai food scene is a testament to the city’s culinary diversity and the rich cultural influences that shape it. For occasional travelers, we recommend starting your journey in Thai Town, where you can experience the heart of Thai cuisine in LA. For seasoned travelers, consider venturing to the lesser-known gems like Kinkan or Anajak Thai Cuisine, where you’ll find innovative dishes that push the boundaries of traditional Thai flavors. Embrace the adventure and let your taste buds guide you through the vibrant world of Thai cuisine in Los Angeles.