Southern California is a culinary melting pot, and within its vast landscape, Rowland Heights shines as a haven for authentic Asian cuisine. Among the diverse offerings, Thai food holds a special place, tantalizing taste buds with its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. It’s a far cry from the often-simplified versions of Pad Thai that many may know, and Rowland Heights boasts a treasure trove of restaurants offering a true taste of Thailand, from familiar favorites to regional specialties. This guide aims to navigate the rich Thai food scene in Rowland Heights, highlighting the best spots and what culinary adventures await.
Why Rowland Heights for Thai Food?
Rowland Heights, nestled in Los Angeles County, is more than just a suburb; it’s a community brimming with cultural diversity. This diversity is vividly reflected in its food scene, particularly its abundance of Thai restaurants. But why Rowland Heights for Thai food, you might ask?
The answer lies in its vibrant demographic makeup. Rowland Heights is home to a significant Asian population, including a thriving Thai community. This presence ensures the authenticity and variety of Thai cuisine available. The chefs aren’t just cooking; they are sharing a taste of their heritage, recreating dishes passed down through generations.
The concentration of Thai restaurants in Rowland Heights has also cultivated a healthy sense of competition, driving up standards and ensuring quality. Restaurants strive to outdo each other, offering unique takes on classic dishes, using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and providing exceptional service. This competitive landscape translates into a better dining experience for us, the consumers.
Finally, Rowland Heights offers accessibility and convenience. Centrally located in the San Gabriel Valley, it’s easily reachable from various parts of Los Angeles. Moreover, the area boasts ample parking, making it a hassle-free destination for those seeking a delicious Thai meal. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Rowland Heights welcomes you with open arms and a plate full of culinary delights.
Popular Thai Restaurants in Rowland Heights
Now, let’s delve into some of the standout Thai restaurants that Rowland Heights has to offer. Please note, this is just a small selection of the many excellent establishments in the area; explore and discover your own hidden gems!
Siam Sunset: A Rowland Heights Institution
Located on Colima Road, Siam Sunset is a local favorite known for its extensive menu and consistently delicious food. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a casual dinner with family or friends. Stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by the aroma of lemongrass, galangal, and chili, a testament to the authentic Thai flavors that await.
Their signature dishes are numerous, but the Pad See Ew, with its wide rice noodles, Chinese broccoli, egg, and your choice of protein, is a must-try. The noodles are perfectly cooked, the sauce is flavorful without being overpowering, and the portion size is generous. Another standout is their green curry, rich and creamy with just the right amount of spice. The tender chicken and fresh vegetables in the curry make it a comforting and satisfying meal. Prices here fall into the moderate range, making it an excellent value for the quality and quantity of food you receive. Siam Sunset is special because it’s a local institution that has consistently delivered delicious Thai food for years, earning a loyal following in the process.
Ruen Pair: Authentic Northern Thai Flavors
If you are looking for a taste of Northern Thailand without leaving Rowland Heights, Ruen Pair is the place to be. Tucked away in a strip mall, this unassuming restaurant is a culinary hidden gem. The atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, focusing solely on the food.
Their Khao Soi is a revelation. This Northern Thai curry noodle soup is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring egg noodles in a creamy coconut curry broth, topped with crispy noodles, pickled mustard greens, shallots, and lime. The broth is rich and aromatic, the noodles are perfectly cooked, and the crispy noodles add a delightful crunch. Also, be sure to try their Sai Oua, a flavorful Northern Thai sausage made with herbs and spices. Ruen Pair offers a unique culinary experience that is both authentic and affordable. Their dedication to Northern Thai cuisine and their unwavering commitment to quality make them a standout in Rowland Heights.
Saladang Song: A Modern Thai Experience
Saladang Song offers a more modern and upscale Thai dining experience. The decor is stylish and contemporary, creating an inviting atmosphere for a special occasion or a sophisticated night out. While the ambiance is more refined, the food remains authentic and flavorful.
Their menu features a mix of classic Thai dishes and innovative creations. Their Panang Curry is a rich and flavorful dish with coconut milk, peanut sauce, bell peppers, and basil. The curry is smooth and creamy, the peanut sauce adds a unique depth of flavor, and the bell peppers and basil provide a refreshing counterpoint. They are also known for their seafood dishes, particularly their steamed fish with ginger and soy sauce. While prices are slightly higher than other Thai restaurants in the area, the quality of the ingredients, the presentation, and the overall dining experience make it worth the splurge. Saladang Song distinguishes itself with its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and its innovative approach to Thai cuisine, offering a refined dining experience that is both delicious and memorable.
Spicy BBQ: Isan Flavors Ignite
Spicy BBQ specializes in Isan cuisine, the food from northeastern Thailand. Isan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fiery chilies, and use of fermented ingredients. This restaurant embraces these characteristics, offering a menu that is both authentic and exciting.
Their Som Tum, or green papaya salad, is a must-try for those who appreciate a bit of heat. The salad is made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, dried shrimp, and a fiery chili dressing. The combination of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors is incredibly addictive. Also, sample their Larb, a minced meat salad with roasted rice powder, herbs, and lime juice. It is a flavorful and refreshing dish that is perfect for a light lunch or a shared appetizer. This establishment is popular because they champion Isan cuisine, introducing diners to the bold and exciting flavors of northeastern Thailand. They are not afraid to use chilies, so be prepared for some heat!
Must-Try Thai Dishes Beyond Pad Thai
While Pad Thai is a recognizable dish, Thai cuisine is a vast and diverse culinary landscape, offering a multitude of flavors and textures to explore. Let’s venture beyond the familiar and discover some must-try dishes that represent the true essence of Thai cuisine.
Let’s start with Khao Soi. As mentioned before, this Northern Thai curry noodle soup is a culinary masterpiece. The creamy coconut curry broth is infused with aromatic spices, the egg noodles are perfectly cooked, and the crispy noodles add a delightful crunch. It’s a dish that is both comforting and exciting, offering a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Next, explore Som Tum, or green papaya salad. This seemingly simple salad is a powerhouse of flavor, combining the sweetness of green papaya, the acidity of lime juice, the saltiness of fish sauce, the heat of chilies, and the crunch of peanuts. It’s a refreshing and invigorating dish that is perfect for a hot day.
Don’t miss Tom Yum Soup. This is a quintessential Thai soup known for its sour and spicy flavors. The broth is infused with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chilies, creating a complex and aromatic flavor profile. The soup can be made with shrimp, chicken, or vegetables, and is typically garnished with cilantro and lime.
Green Curry, or Gaeng Keow Wan, is a classic Thai curry that is both flavorful and aromatic. The green curry paste is made with green chilies, lemongrass, galangal, and other herbs and spices. The curry is cooked with coconut milk, bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and basil, creating a creamy and fragrant dish.
Try Larb, or Laab, a minced meat salad that is popular in the Isan region of Thailand. The meat is typically seasoned with roasted rice powder, herbs, lime juice, and chilies. It’s a flavorful and refreshing dish that is often served with sticky rice.
Finally, no Thai meal is complete without Mango Sticky Rice, or Khao Niao Mamuang. This simple yet satisfying dessert features sweet sticky rice topped with slices of ripe mango and drizzled with coconut milk. It’s the perfect way to end a flavorful meal.
Tips for Navigating the Rowland Heights Thai Food Scene
Navigating the Thai food scene in Rowland Heights can be an exciting adventure. Here are some tips to enhance your experience:
First, be mindful of spice levels. Thai restaurants in Rowland Heights often cater to a more authentic Thai palate, so even “medium” spice can be quite fiery. Don’t hesitate to ask for your dish to be prepared mild, especially if you are sensitive to spice.
Second, be aware of regional variations. Different restaurants may specialize in different regional Thai cuisines. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences. They can guide you towards dishes that suit your taste.
Third, consider making reservations. Especially on weekends and during peak hours, popular restaurants can get crowded. Making a reservation ensures that you will have a table and can avoid a long wait.
Fourth, factor in parking. Parking in Rowland Heights can be challenging, particularly during busy times. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or utilizing ride-sharing services to avoid the hassle of finding parking.
Finally, explore online reviews. Websites like Yelp and Google Reviews offer valuable insights from other diners. Read reviews to get a sense of the restaurant’s atmosphere, food quality, and service.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Rowland Heights presents a remarkable Thai food experience, showcasing a diverse range of flavors, dishes, and dining environments. From established institutions to hidden gems specializing in regional cuisine, Rowland Heights provides a culinary journey through the heart of Thailand. The abundance of options ensures there’s something to satisfy every craving, whether you’re seeking a familiar favorite or an adventurous new taste. So, embark on a culinary exploration of Rowland Heights and discover your own preferred Thai spots, flavors, and aromas. You’re sure to discover a new favorite. The true essence of Thai cuisine is waiting to be uncovered.
