Tawanna Thai

i have no idea how this restaurant made it to second place on best of citysearch. i love thai food, but this place is way, way, way overrated! our waitress had an attitude, didn't smile, didn't try to have eye contact with us. she was just blah, and monotone all night. we were the only people in the restaurant, but still they didn't manage to bring out the appetizers before the main course. so by the time we were done with the appetizers, our main course was closer to cold than to hot. before we finished eating our entrees, the waitress came over to our table asked if everything was ok, and pretty much slammed to check on our table....well great experience, never again!!! thank you. the dishes were ok, weren't anything spectacular though.

Pros: nice ambience

Cons: bad service, cold food.

Posted 10/26/09

the best thai food outside of Thailand, nicely decorated clean, i eat here at least 3 times a week and me and my wife can not get enough,,, keep doing what u doin i will refer this spot to everybody

Pros: Clean and friendly staff

Cons: none

Posted 10/20/09

I discovered Tawanna Thai a couple of months ago and now it is my preferred spot for great, cheap thai food. Classy enough to bring a date, but cheap enough to go every week for a quick bite. The mango sticky rice is particularly amazing! The Thai Green Chicken Curry is also excellent. Highly recommended!

Pros: Excellent thai food at great prices!

Posted 09/27/09

Great tasting food, nice environment and really clean. Good customer service. Always craving for their food.

Pros: Friendly service

Posted 09/22/09

The very first time I had gone was for a GIRLS AFTERNOON, and I haven't stopped going since! Everyone I have turned on to it, has gone back! I would definitely reccommend you trying it at least once! Great place for an intimate date. The seating is close together but the atmosphere that it creates makes the experience all worth while. NO WAIT, JUST GREAT!!

Pros: Seriously - the best Thai food in LA

Posted 07/10/09

What can I say except about this cute little place other than it is absolutely charming and has fan-thai-stic food.
I had the sweet and sour chicken with a little kick of spice and thoroughly enjoyed it. The cheese rolls were sublime and I had the best glass of unsweet (sorry, from the north here

Pros: Masaman Curry Chicken

Cons: Lunch gets crowded

Posted 07/10/09

I went here recently and had terrible service. Requested for things to be made that are on their online menu and was told that "it was for lunch and takeout orders only." What is the difference between putting my food on a real plate versus in a to go box? Come on. The food was alright but the next day I felt so nauseaus. Probably msg. Pretty terrible feeling and felt so sick all day. My friend got a soup and it was literally chicken stock, could have made it at home. Two entrees were brought out way before the other two and they started clearing half the table while my friend was still eating. I will not be back!

Pros: price, parking

Posted 05/31/09

Here's my assessment of the restaurant in the order of importance I place in a restaurant: The food was really tasty (5), price was inexpensive (4), customer service was good (4), and the ambiance served its purpose (5) = 4 stars overall.

Pros: Ambiance:

Posted 04/17/09

This thai spot was pretty good...a trendy little spot with a cool bar. Not too many places in LA are as good as this...Club Sushi is its only rival!

Posted 03/25/09

It looks like this place has been reviewed by people who registered for an account just to review this place.
95% of the reviews are from one-timers. I visited the place a few times and it was empty which is kind of weird for a place that get reviewed almost every other day. Citysearch should check this out!

Hmmm!! Curious.

Posted 03/09/09

I have been here several times for lunch with business associates. It has always been outstanding. I have tried several things on the menu and have always been pleased.

Posted 03/06/09

This is where my partner of 4 years and I went on our first date. We have been back dozens of times since. The food, alcoholic beverages, and atmosphere are pleasant and modern. Located in the heart of the Los Angeles, it is the perfect place to let down with friends or bring that special someone. The bo luc lac has always been one of my favorites. The BBQ chicken is great for spice. Sping rolls are always above average - I recommend the shrimp rolls. The sherry martini will make you want to head straight to Los Angeles in CAL. Tawanna Thai, you are a dream!

Pros: food, service, atmosphere

Cons: parking when busy

Posted 03/02/09

I started out with the Lychi Martini which was FABULOUS. The food also was great. Drunked Pastas and the sauce was decadent. The steamed fish was very nice as well, although not quite as much flavor. The servers were helpful friendly and on top of things. I've been here quite a few times and am always pleased with the food and service.

Pros: Ambience, Parking, Service, Food

Posted 02/27/09

This was probably the best restaurant in LA, let alone the entire country. Hands down. Whether it be biz or pleasure, this wonderful dining experience is sure to WOW your client .This is the second time I went. First time was a charm, and I feel that standard has dropped since 6 months ago. But, it's still quite an experience and better than most restaurants.

Pros: great traditional Thai food

Posted 02/23/09

We had the pleasure of dining at Tawanna Thai last night and as always the food were excellent good. The service was very pleasant. My favor is crying tiger, it has been the best. Sometimes, we have your delivery services also and it is very reliable. We just want to say thank you for been such wonderful restaurant

Posted 02/23/09

We went to this restaurant on Valentines Day. The food was wonderful! Even with all that was going on the owner herself seated us and spent a few moments answering some questions we had. Because of our dietary requirements (and I?m picky) we asked that some of the items be cooked differently than the ?traditional? way. As the waiter went to ask the owner (all I was thinking was? oh boy here it comes) and to our surprise she said ?sure, no problem.? Without even thinking about it! Anyone who has allergies or can?t eat certain things knows that most of the time the response isn?t quite as friendly... LOL!!!

Pros: Valentines Day was wonderful! Even

Posted 02/20/09

this is a place that has authentic thai dishes and are truly tasty. Most people havent had authentic and this place is outstanding. It beats all the penny noodles shops in the city. Try the chicken basil and see what happens

Pros: clean, great taste

Posted 02/16/09

There are a few Thai places that serve top quality food at reasonable prices, and this is one of them. Consistently excellent food, solid service, great for takeout too. We use them when we have lots of guests .
Our favorites are the yellow curry with chicken, and the crying tiger . the restaurant itself is tiny, though we've never had a problem getting a seat for dinner. Have fun and enjoy!

Pros: Wonderful food, great service

Posted 02/13/09

Without a doubt, the best Pan-fried noodles in the City of Los angeles. BYO X ( if B= beer, and W= wine, then solve for X). The service was usually decent when I went, But for a fun time .Good place to eat late at night, The food is tasty, a bit too greasy for my taste but tasty.As I said, perfect place to have a late night meal or take out.

Posted 02/10/09

I'm big on ambience so I like this place. Nice modern chic decor. What I love best is that the staff is so friendly! Thai food is good. A tad on the weak side on the robust flavor scale. Seating is always prompt as is the service. Dishes range from $8-$12, so not bad. Being a night owl I love the late hours!

Posted 02/06/09

I just left LA. and I had the opportunity to eat at Tawanna Thai Restaurant. It is a very simple restaurant, but it is always busy. I happen to come across it because I was staying at the Marriott in Downtown LA. It happened to be surrounded by several thai restaurants, but I chose this one. The food and the service was so good. I have to recommend the tom yum soup, it is so good. It is the first time I have had it and it is REALLY FILLING. I would also recommend the silver noodle salad. If you like spicy authentic thai food, you must try Tawanna Thai.

Pros: Authentic Thai food. Great customer service

Cons: Simple but great food and service

Posted 02/06/09

I've eaten here three times; two take out and one dine in. All three times were extraordinarily good. I don't remember all the dishes I've had there, but the basil duck, panang curry and mussamun curry are all fabulous. The duck was juicy, the panang had just enough tanginess, and the mussamun had a poetic indulgence of peanuts. I am really annoyed that they charge you for rice, but the prices are pretty reasonable, and the tastes are fabulous, so I'll let it go. The service is friendly but lacks a bit on the English front. I haven't had an order screwed up yet though. Bottom line: go here for really fabulous thai food in a nice relaxed atmosphere.

Pros: Great food, nice ambience

Posted 02/02/09

After moving here from NYC a year ago, I had yet to find a good Thai place in LA. This is the place I was looking for..excellent food, not overpriced, Thank you u guys.......

Posted 01/31/09

My mother was Thai, and a foodie, too. I grew up eating VERY good Thai food here, and in Thailand. Although I gamely try the Thai restaurants in LA, I usually don't bother returning. Tawanna Thai is a totally different story. Tawanna Thai dishes out the home foods, without fuss and without distraction. This is authentic-tasting, and very well-priced. My favorites: som tum, and chicken fried rice. Mmm...

Pros: authentic, good price, delicious food

Posted 01/30/09

Feature: Takeout available Full bar. Excellent Great food. Perfect neighborhood spot. No complaints whatsoever. Always has great selections. This is a great place to get spicy ...‎ya,ya

Pros: Genuine Thai Cuisine‎

Posted 01/29/09

This is actual THAI FOOD. Not americanized It is outstanding. If you have been to Thailand and know what to expect, than definitely go here. ...I give you 4 star

Pros: yummy consistent food

Posted 01/26/09

We saw the place and it looked really cool so we decided to go. The drinks were good, and the place was reThey even gave us free dessert at the end of our party. They even gave us free dessert at the end of our party. The place isn't too busy either. Highly recommended

Pros: tasty appetizers, smooth drinks, nice ambiance

Posted 01/23/09

I like Thai food, quality, fusion and creative flavors. I found it at Be My Guest - "Quality Thai Fushion". I stop by with friends about once a week. Love the warm modern ambiance. We like to stop at the bar for a few drinks first. Alot of good drinks with premium alcolhol. This a a great restaurant for birthday dinners this place is all HEART!!!

Posted 01/23/09

perfect place for a date... great food, great prices and great service!!! i know this perk of being able to go to an amazing restaurant without needing a reservation and being able to just walk in won't last. it's nice, comfortable, and unpretentious. i know it's a matter of time before people find out about this little gem... the first time i tried the restaurant, i was so impressed with the menu. the prices are really reasonable for the creativity and quantity of food you get. the curry were awesome and so was the duck salad. Highly recommended as one of the best Thai restaurant in the city!!!

Pros: Thai Fusion Food, Cocktails, Excellent Atmosphere

Posted 01/23/09

I had lunch there with my friends on Monday. This lady (with braces) doesn't understand what we tried to order. She also had an attitude. It would be nice if you could find a waitress who can speak English. I gave 5 stars for excellent food.

Pros: tasty food

Cons: service

Posted 01/22/09

I've been living in Loa Angeles for 6 years and I daresay Tawanna Thai Thai is one the best Thai cuisine restaurant in the LA Area. To start off, their satay are incredibly delicious that it made my cousins come all over from BK just to get dibs on those wings. Also, the prawn silver noodle that they serve is fabulous. The noodle is so soft and smells so good. Another memorable dish is the dessert that they have, the sweet rice /mango. so simple yet superb and you can add ice cream on top of it. The list can go on and on but I highly recommend anyone who is craving for a Thai food, pick this one out. The place can get crowded sometimes and you might have to wait due to the small size of the restaurant. But I still think it worths the taste

Pros: I'm getting hungry just thinking about it, but cant get over there just now

Cons: Perfect flavoring, good service, fun ambience

Posted 01/20/09

Have to give Tawana ThaiThai a full 10. I remember when I went there the first time, I felt very authentic from the decor and the food. The space is a bit crowded, but the food definitely makes up for it. I have known the couple who own the restaurant for many years. They are very nice people. All in all, all stars are aligned for the excellence of this restaurant.

Posted 01/20/09

As soon as you arrive the staff greets with you a hello and quickly begins setting up your table even on their busiest nights I've only had to wait for a few minutes. The spicy angel wings are best in town, a little messy but totally worth it. Also, ask about the recommendations or favorite dishes that's how I discovered the green papaya salad and korea bbq. Both scrumptious and other favorites include the yellow curry followed by anything from the wok and topped off with S&S sauce. It's all about sweet and spicy at this place and I was surprised at the good selection of wine they had to compliment the food. I've taken several friends and family members to this restaurant and they all walk away loving it and looking forward to their next visit

Cons: ambience, parking

Posted 01/20/09

This is a great place to go during the weekday and the weekend for dinner, when it's not too crowded and there's a more intimate feel to the place. I went for dinner one night and it was pretty busy, but it was the perfect atmosphere my girlfriend & I were looking for to enjoy a quiet drink with each other. Service was friendly and prompt, and the interior is absolutely gorgeous. Definitely would go back again.

Pros: Romantic, great decor,service

Cons: Not at all

Posted 01/19/09

SOOOO much FUN!!! my firends and I were there this past weekend and had such a great time! I've been to restaurant a bunch of places and been to a lot of the thai restaurant including tuk tuk, but I think tawanna thai is my new favorite. It was a little crowded, but that just goes to show you how popular it is. The atmosphere were so great and has a bunch of different mixes clocktail. I'm so bummed cause I just found out that I missed alot of great dishes like Pad Thai I heard it was good. Are you kidding me?!

Pros: service,food,atmosphere

Posted 01/19/09

Every time we are visiting LA we make sure to have a meal at this little lovely restaurant. The food there is realy outstanding. The combinations of flavors are amasing. The presentation of the dishes is very tastfull, the service is attentive and friendly and the ambiance is simple but cozy. We always have great and relaxing time at Jiltada. If I lived in LA I'd go there at least once a week. Very effordable and very delicious.

Pros: food, service, value

Posted 01/18/09

I definitely will recommend Tawanna thai to anyone that wants to try . It was one of the best Thai restaurants I've ever tried in the city. One of my favorite appetizer was the korea bbg and the papaya salad..yum! It is not those order me Pad Thai type of restaurants...it is a different atmosphere you can dine with your partner, friends or family. Chef Pai is the greatest and puts all her effort in all her dishes she presents out to each table

Pros: korea bbg and the papaya salad..yum!

Posted 01/18/09

This is my vote for best Thai restaurant in the city. The head chef Pai is charming and the food quality and presentation is both pleasant and memorable. I always have a good time here with friends. The appetizers are actually some of my favorites bar none. The ginger fish and stuffed basil eggplant are always on my must have list. These days I am partial to the yellow curry dinner. Thumbs up!

Pros: Charming size restaurant. Not too big or crowded. Not too small. Cozy fun

Posted 01/18/09

I really like Thai food. Good Thai food. It seems like that is the food of choice for the last couple of years and Thai restaurants are springing up in practically every strip mall all over the US. The Tawanna Thai should NOT, repeat, NOT be lumped in with those restaurants. The service here was excellent (I don't think my water glass fell below about an inch from the top the whole time I was there) we were seated promptly and courteously and the wait staff was excellent. My partner had the Pad Thai (no other way to judge a Thai restaurant in our opinion) and I had the Thai fried rice with beef. Both were excellent, as was the fresh spring roll we had for an appetizer. The only warning I would give you is if you're not able to handle a little spice / heat, then be sure to order your dish mild.

Pros: Great authentic food at excellent prices, wonderful wait staff

Posted 01/16/09

Since moving to LA 3years ago, we probably go to Tawanna Thai once every two weeks. It is AWESOME. Everything on the menu is great - we particularly like the papaya salad, chicken satays, roasted duck, and hot basil dishes. :)

Pros: Inexpensive, courteous, friendly

Cons: small interior

Posted 01/16/09

I have been living in LA for five years and was looking for an awesome Thai restaurant until just recently when I found this place!! The food is by far the best and they offer fast delivery and takeout which makes this place truly a gem. I recommend any of the curry dishes (the curry duck is alittle too spicy for me), and the Drunken Noodle dish is to die for. Standards like Pad Thai, spring rolls, tempura are above par as well. Prices are alittle more expensive than some other places that say they serve authentic Thai, but very worth spending an extra couple of bucks

Pros: Cold air drafts

Posted 01/16/09

We were totally impressed with the freshness of the food together with the brilliant use of spices and sauces. It was clear to us that the food is not only infused with love, but also with real culinary know-how. An added bonus was the great conversation we had with Syerra, who advised us not only on food choices, but also on our future fortunes. A great evening overall!

Pros: Good food. Good place

Posted 01/15/09

When I lived in LA, I used to go to Tawanna Thai once a week. Either eat in or take out. The staff is wonderful (Nit is so sweet), they remember me even thought I have moved away and only go when I am in town (it is the only place I HAVE to go to when I return to LA. The Tom Yum Chicken Soup is to die for; I haven't found any better in my new home of Ohio. and beleive me I have tried. For me it is the one I measure all other Thai restaurants against.

Pros: tasty dishes, inexpensive

Posted 01/14/09

Tawanna Thai one of my favorite LA restaurants. The food is always good and the specials are a GREAT VALUE. Try ginger fish and the crab rangoon with sweet&sour sauce . Delicious. I've only had good meals here and the servers are polite and attentive.

Pros: food is fab, good price, parking

Cons: service, decor

Posted 01/13/09

Nice atmoshpere I really like the red color schem. The food was well deserve a good rating and was done in a timely manner. I really like the cocktails that are all available and they really compliment the food. Very well all around.

Pros: Good setup

Cons: Need more cocktails variety

Posted 01/13/09

If you're looking for a cozy cuisine, THIS IS IT!! I love their new renovation, very nice atmosphere. Pad Thai noodle was tasty, very soft noodle. I can tell that they select only the best quality ingredients 'cause I can taste it.

Pros: quality ingredients, service

Posted 01/13/09

Great Thai food and friendly staff. They run the best Take Out business in LA. Very efficient, fast and friendly. Love the Pad Thai and Beef Panang.

Pros: excellent service, food is always the freshest

Posted 01/12/09

If you like Thai food, this is the best place in town.The food here is unbeliveable. My wife and I love the ambience, and the service was amazing. Overall a great experience.

Pros: So much to choose, so little time

Cons: Variety of Tastes

Posted 01/12/09

YOU WILL HAVE THE BEST TIME EVER, THE LIGHTING, THE MUSIC, THE SOUND. EVERYTHING IS GEARED UP TO MAKE YOUR EXPERIENCE THERE THE MOST AMAZING EVER.
Tawanna Thai is absolutely amazing. They have great service and fabulous food. The servers are very friendly and i always get great service. Everything that i've tried on the menu is awesome and my favorite dish is the Papaya salad with Soft shellcrab you may not find in the menu but you can ask the server their,
they'll highly recommend this dish to you. And all so don't miss out the clocktails their are amazing. i love my clocktail storng so asked and it came soo fancy it was Ruby of siam and my wife has Blue Hawaiian.
i'm highly recommend to everyone that love thai food and clocktails this is it. Tawanna Thai

Pros: Food,Service,Good price ,Parking

Posted 01/11/09