The Absolute Best Thai Food in Berkeley [Updated 2025]

Throughout my culinary journey, I have savored countless Thai dishes, each telling its own unique story through flavors and textures.

After reviewing twelve standout restaurants in Berkeley, I've compiled a list that highlights the gems offering authentic tastes and delightful experiences.

From the fragrant curries to the perfectly balanced pad thais, there's no shortage of delectable options in this vibrant city.

Join me as we explore these delightful eateries, ensuring your next meal is a mouthwatering adventure into the heart of Thai cuisine!

Imm Thai Street Food

Highlights
Fast and delicious Thai dishes
Excellent service
Cozy atmosphere
Reasonably priced options
Must-try Pad Kee Mao

Imm Thai Street Food truly embodies the vibrant spirit of Thailand right in the heart of Berkeley! From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a cozy atmosphere that felt both welcoming and lively. The service was impeccable—swift and friendly, making me feel right at home.

But let's talk about the food, because that’s where the magic happens. I decided to indulge in their Pad Kee Mao, a dish that has quickly become a must-try! The noodles were gloriously stir-fried, bursting with flavor, and perfectly textured. It was spicy, but not over-the-top, striking just the right balance that had me savoring every bite.

What impressed me equally was the price—reasonably priced dishes that don’t skimp on portion or flavor are hard to come by in this city! I can't help but commend their commitment to delivering fast and delicious Thai dishes without compromising quality.

If you’re on a quest for authentic Thai cuisine in Berkeley, I wholeheartedly recommend Imm Thai Street Food. It’s a delightful culinary adventure that you definitely don’t want to miss!

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BUA THAI KITCHEN

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Flavorful sizzling seafood plate
Beautiful interior with plants
Amazing pad Thai and fried rice
Convenient parking available

BUA THAI KITCHEN in Berkeley is an absolute gem that deserves a spotlight in the quest for the best Thai food in the area. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere, accented by lush greenery that whispers relaxation. The staff was not only friendly but also genuinely attentive, ensuring that every detail was looked after during my visit.

The culinary adventure began with a sizzling seafood plate that was a symphony of flavors! Each bite was a delightful explosion, showcasing the freshness and quality of the ingredients. For a classic comfort dish, their pad Thai and fried rice stood out — both were expertly prepared, with the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and everything in between. The bold flavors were truly a celebration of Thai cuisine, evoking memories of bustling street markets and authentic flavors from afar.

To top it off, the convenient parking made this delightful experience all the more enjoyable. In a city known for its vibrant food scene, BUA THAI KITCHEN has found a way to carve its niche. This spot is a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of Thailand right here in Berkeley!

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Funky Elephant Berkeley

Highlights
Outstanding Pad Thai
Friendly and cute atmosphere
Delicious papaya salad
Grilled pork perfection
Late-night dining available

Funky Elephant Review

Stepping into Funky Elephant Berkeley feels like entering a cozy haven of culinary delight. The atmosphere is both friendly and cute, setting the stage for a delightful meal. Now, let’s talk about the food! I was eager to try their outstanding Pad Thai, and it didn't disappoint. The harmonious blend of flavors danced joyously on my palate, making it a standout dish that I would crave again.

Another highlight was the delicious papaya salad, which offered a refreshing contrast with its zesty crunch. It’s a perfect way to start your meal, helping to awaken your taste buds and prepare you for the savory goodness ahead. Speaking of savory, the grilled pork was perfection! Each bite was tender, juicy, and infused with a delicious smoky flavor, truly a labor of love.

And let’s not forget, Funky Elephant caters to the night owls with late-night dining options. With such fantastic offerings in a cozy setting, it’s no wonder this hidden gem has found its way to my list of Berkeley's best Thai restaurants. Prepare for a delightful adventure that invites you back for more!

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Soi 4 Bangkok Eatery

Highlights
Incredible food and service
Generous portion sizes
Great happy hour specials
Relaxing dining atmosphere
Phenomenal grilled dishes

Soi 4 Bangkok Eatery serves up a delightful taste of Thailand right in the heart of Berkeley. As soon as I stepped into this charming eatery, I was enveloped by a relaxing dining atmosphere that sets the stage for the culinary adventure ahead. The staff welcomed me with incredible service, making the experience all the more enjoyable.

After scanning the menu, I couldn’t resist diving into their phenomenal grilled dishes. The flavors were vibrant, with each bite balancing sweet, savory, and spicy elements seamlessly. One dish that truly stole the show was the grilled pork skewers, which boasted a mouthwatering marinade and were generously portioned—a rarity in many places!

What’s more, the happy hour specials are the cherry on top. You get to experience the rich complexity of Thai cuisine without burning a hole in your wallet.

In my quest for the best Thai food in Berkeley, Soi 4 Bangkok Eatery emerged as a true gem. If you're looking for a place that combines quality, quantity, and a pinch of joy, make sure to stop by! You won't regret it!

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GaiNoi Oakland

Highlights
Delicious hidden gem
Great service
Tasty pad see ew
Worth the visit
Cozy dining experience

GaiNoi Oakland is undoubtedly a hidden gem that deserves a spotlight in Berkeley’s bustling food scene. Nestled away, this cozy Thai joint is where culinary delight meets welcoming service. As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped by an inviting atmosphere that made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the pad see ew—oh, what a dish! The noodles were perfectly chewy, drenched in a robust sauce that struck that impeccable balance between sweet and savory. Each bite was complemented by tender greens and succulent pieces of meat. It's a dish that leaves you savoring the moment long after the plate is cleared.

The service here is another plus, with attentive staff who treat you like family, making your dining experience feel personal. Their recommendations were spot-on, ensuring I dined like a local with all the best flavors presented beautifully.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Thai cuisine or stepping into this world for the first time, GaiNoi Oakland is definitely worth the visit. I left with my taste buds dancing and a longing for my next rendezvous with this delightful spot. Trust me, this is a place where flavor meets familiarity, and it's simply irresistible!

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Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine Berkeley

Stepping into Farmhouse Kitchen Thai Cuisine Berkeley is like entering a vibrant culinary oasis! The ambiance is delightfully playful, adorned with colorful decor that sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. I indulged in their Pad Ka Prao, a fragrant stir-fry bursting with fresh basil and savory flavors that danced on my palate. The floral Thai iced tea was the perfect complement, offering a refreshing sweetness. Each dish showcases the magic of Thai ingredients and traditional techniques with a modern twist. For those seeking authenticity wrapped in chic flair, Farmhouse is a must-visit destination for Thai food lovers!

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Yimm Oakland

Yimm Oakland in Berkeley is a delightful gem that tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant flavors. The Pad Thai here is a must-try; the balance of sweetness and tanginess dances on the palate. I was particularly enamored with the Green Curry, which packs a flavorful punch while retaining a comforting creaminess. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for a casual outing or a cozy dinner. Don't miss their Thai Iced Tea—it's the ideal compliment to your meal. Overall, Yimm Oakland is a fantastic spot that showcases the essence of authentic Thai cuisine in Berkeley!

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Little Plearn Thai Kitchen

My recent visit to Little Plearn Thai Kitchen in Berkeley was a delightful culinary adventure! The aromatic curry enveloped my senses, while the Pad Thai danced with vibrant flavors and textures. Each bite revealed the chef's dedication to authentic taste, with fresh ingredients shining through. I couldn’t resist their mango sticky rice—a sweet, comforting finish that left me craving more. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff enhanced the overall experience. If you're seeking a taste of Thailand that’s both traditional and innovative, look no further than this gem. Little Plearn is a must-visit for Thai food aficionados!

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Anchalee

Anchalee is a delightful gem in Berkeley that wins you over with its authentic Thai flavors. The moment I stepped in, the aromatic scent of lemongrass and spices enveloped me, setting the stage for a culinary adventure. I indulged in their Pad Thai, which was perfectly balanced—tangy, sweet, and delightfully crunchy. The Green Curry was a creamy explosion of vibrant herbs and tender veggies that kept me coming back for more. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, Anchalee is a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Thai cuisine in Berkeley. A feast for the senses, indeed!

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Sistory Thai Kitchen

At Sistory Thai Kitchen, every dish feels like a warm hug from Thailand. I savored their Pad See Ew, which was a delightful balance of tender noodles and savory wok-charred flavors. The Green Curry had just the right kick, leaving my taste buds dancing with glee. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel right at home. Don’t skip their Mango Sticky Rice for dessert—it's a sweet masterpiece! Overall, Sistory is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic flavors that transport you straight to Bangkok. Highly recommended!

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Daughter Thai Kitchen

My visit to Daughter Thai Kitchen was a delightful culinary adventure! The street-style larvae were bursting with flavor, offering a delightful crunch that complemented their zingy sauces. The Pad Thai was beautifully balanced, showcasing perfectly cooked noodles enveloped in a luscious, tangy sauce. I couldn’t resist their Spicy Basil Chicken; it brought the right amount of heat to the table! The cozy, inviting atmosphere made me feel right at home, and the attentive service was the cherry on top. If you’re on the hunt for authentic Thai goodness, Daughter Thai might just be your next favorite spot in Berkeley!

Rose La Moon Thai Food & Desserts

Rose La Moon Thai Food & Desserts is a charming gem that dazzles the palate! The moment you step in, the aroma of authentic Thai spices wraps around you like a warm hug. I savored their Pad Thai, which struck the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and savory—each bite a delightful dance on my taste buds! The mango sticky rice was the cherry on top, a luscious finish that left me dreaming sweetly. The vibrant decor and friendly staff enhance the experience, making it a must-visit. For anyone seeking the best Thai food in Berkeley, Rose La Moon is an irresistible delight!