Karuna's has great things about it like the ability to get food at a high spice level (the highest spice in town for Thai and on some days it can get quite spicy at the highest level of 5/5. Good place to go less spicy at if you generally eat less spice). I also like the tofu here. The food is usually good but can also be hit or miss. I find that 1 out of a few times the tom Kha soup and the curries can fall flat in terms of flavor complexity and are too salty. They are often good just not consistently. They have a couple noodle dishes that I find more consistent. All items with V can be made vegetarian. They are also very vegan friendly. Here's what I have tried here: -Rad Nah Flat rice noodles stir fried with kana or broccoli in a special gravy with choice of protein. I get mine with fried tofu at the highest spice level 5/5 or 4/5 if I am in the mood for less spicy. This dish is one of the main dishes that has been consistently good for me here and I almost always get it here. -Tom Kha soup: It is not my favorite Tom Kha in Tucson (my fave Tom Kha in Tucson is at Seasons Eats) but on good days it hits the spot for me. I get it with half fried tofu and half vegetables which they didn't charge me extra for here. The problem is that once in awhile it's less good and falls flat with less complexity and too much salt. I typically get Tom Kha soup at the highest spice level. It's still a go to for me here since it's good most of the time I have tried it and I like to get it with the Rad Nah Flat rice noodles. Pad Kee Mao: Fresh rice noodles or bean thread stir fried in red curry sauce with garlic, Thai chili, onion, bell pepper, broccoli, straw mushroom, baby corn, and basil. For this one I like to make a change to wide flat rice noodles instead of the thin noodles it comes with by default. I get it with fried tofu. This dish is fairly consistent for me and I enjoy getting it from time to time. -Yum Pak salad: Thai eggplant, carrot, snow peas, onion, broccoli, cilantro,cucumber, and Chinese cabbage in a tasty lime dressing. At the highest 5/5 spice level it definitely got spicy for me which can be the case sometimes with Thai salads at the highets spice level. but I also had it with a Poh Thak soup at the highest spice level so I think both built up for me together. This one wasn't my favorite because I am a little picky about how I like my eggplant ( I liked softer and very cooked typically) but I could see myself getting it again if in the mood, maybe at a 4/5 spice depending on my mood. I only tried it once. - Poh Thak soup Spicy soup with fragrant broth of lemongrass, ginger, galangal, basil, & lime. I get it with fried tofu. I really liked the flavors. At the highest 5/5 spice level it definitely got spicy for me but I also had it with the Yum Pak salad salad at the highest spice level so I think both built up for me together. I still very much enjoyed it and would get it again, maybe at a 4 out of 5 spice depending on my mood. I only tried it once. -Red Curry: Red is my typical go to curry I always get or at least start with at Thai places. It's usually good but unfortunately the curries here, which are usually my go to in Thai restaurants, are very inconsistent for me. Sometimes good and sometimes too salty and not complex. I tend to prefer to get curries, especially red, in Tucson at Nattha's Bann Thai. -Panang Curry with Straw Mushroom and Tofu: Fried tofu simmered in panang curry with coconut milk, straw mushroom, bell pepper, young jackfruit, carrot, chili & Thai basil. Fun to see young jackfruit on the menu here. Unfortunately the curries here, which are usually my go to in Thai restaurants, are very inconsistent for me. Sometimes good and sometimes too salty and not complex. Pad Thai vegetarian: I only tried it once here but it wasn't for me, at least that one time I tried and I didn't get it again. The sauce was too bland for me. It can get pretty crowded here on some weekend evenings as it's not a big space. The service is usually good here in my experience. I'd come back for my favorites or to try something new but I do keep in mind that it isn't always consistent with some dishes fluctuating in flavor sometimes and therefore sometimes prefer to go elsewhere for Thai. My general rating system: 1 star: I would stay away 2 stars: Has some good things about it but I generally don't recommend. 3 stars: Pretty good. I wouldn't go out of my way to go back but a decent place 4 stars: Great place. I would go back. 5 stars: I highly recommend stopping whatever you are doing and making plans to try it out! An Evie favorite! read more

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Our group of five chose to explore Karuna's Thai Plate after our favorite Thai restaurant closed. We made a reservation and arrived promptly, where we were seated without delay. The restaurant was quite busy, and our server, who may have been one of the owners, appeared to be a bit fatigued, which is understandable given their thirty years of service. The food was enjoyable, and while we are considering returning, we are also interested in trying some other Thai restaurants that are more conveniently located and offer better parking options. It was evident that Karuna's serves as a popular neighborhood spot, with numerous takeout orders being handled during our visit. If you're in the neighborhood and craving Thai food, I highly recommend checking them out. Most of us enjoyed their Pad Thai, with some opting for chicken and others for shrimp. We also shared some spring rolls, which were quite tasty! However, I want to mention that it was a bit surprising to receive spring rolls that weren't cut in half, especially since we didn't have any knives at the table. It could be a small change that would make the experience even better for everyone. read more

It had been many years since I last dined at Karuna's. It used to be a hot spot when I first moved to Tucson, and judging by how busy it still is, many people clearly still love it. My husband had a craving for Thai food, and since we were nearby, we gave it a try. His Karuna's fried rice was just average - the bacon, in particular, detracted from the dish rather than enhancing it.  My vegetable curry was even more underwhelming. The sauce had good flavor, but the veggies were meh, and the tofu had an unappealing, rubbery texture. The service was consistent with what you might expect in a casual Thai restaurant, but it did not feel particularly attentive or caring. read more

My colleague suggested this establishment, and it certainly lived up to expectations. Every item we ordered was delightful. It is a rather small and unassuming place, and it can become quite crowded. I observed that one of the servers appeared to be new and was receiving some instruction. I do hope he managed the situation gracefully. read more

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Food Exceptionally Perfect! Amazing price and always delicious. Service here is great! Place is always packed, but don't let that deter you. I've never waited for more than 2-5 mins to sit down. Great little hole in the wall and a nice setting. read more

Great food, nice menu, fun waitress. Staggered delivery of entrees was very irritating - 15 minutes from first to last person in party of 4 served. They open at 5PM on Saturday, and by 6PM every table was filled, so get there early. Love their spring rolls - they are really good. We also got an extra order of the bean sprouts to add to our entrees, and that turned out well, made the dishes more interesting. Spice/heat levels are pretty much spot on - I got mild, and only broke out in a modest sweat. read more

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Decent food. Service was polite. One of the dishes came out on the colder side and the server apologized that it had been sitting on the counter a bit longer as they were waiting on ensuring it came out with other dishes. I am not too convinced as it would appear that the dish (stir fry) was premade and should have been warmed up (stir fried before serving) but the latter step was missed. They took it back and returned with what I assume was the same except this time warm and stir fried with heat. Overall (and could be because of the initial bite being cold and not flavorful)- not a fan of the stir fry. But the curry and the house fried rice was flavorful. Not a large dining space and wouldn't recommend a large party. Indoor seating only. read more

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Best Thai food in Tucson and for a great price. Got the spring rolls, tom kha gai (coconut soup w chicken), pad thai, pad see ew, and two thai teas for only $53 (2 ppl). Good portion sizes too, we had almost our whole plates of pad thai and pad see ew left over. Nothing we had I'd rate less than 9.5/10. Our meal really hit the spot and I'm excited to eat our leftovers. I will say, if you're looking for mushy gushy/super friendly service, you won't find it here. The service is good, I definitely wouldn't say our server was rude, just strictly business, but it didn't bother me though. I'd also say it's not the most aesthetic. It's nice and clean of course, but not somewhere you'd dress up cute for, very casual. Also not ideal for large groups, it's a small place with few tables. Would definitely recommend! read more

I've read all the most recent reviews and I gotta be honest the most important part of any restaurant for me is the FOOD! I did take out and enjoyed walking in and ordering to go in person and opted to wait there after a long shift! This restaurant is family owned and recently has had to go under some change in management (still family) , so give them some grace. The green curry is SOOOOO GOOD I went for medium spice, and the flavor was perfect 10/10 I will be back! As someone who enjoys spicy food I know "Thai hot" is another level! The Thai fried rice was also delicious, and will be ordering again! The spring rolls and fried rolls were fresh and the sauces paired nicely, I always enjoy mint in a spring roll! We also decided on the beef dish that had pineapple in it, it was SOOOOO good the perfect touch of sweet and savory in one dish! The restaurant it self is quaint family style kitchen, it gives "come as you are," vibes. I recommend it and I will be back ! read more

The veggie fried spring rolls are so bomb! I've ordered them alone to take home for a snack later! Their portions are huge. The pad see ew is fantastic. The service is great and the location has plenty of parking behind/to the side of the restaurant. It's quaint but delicious. Best Thai food in Tucson imo and I e been to Thailand and lived many decades in s ca where Thai is plentiful. Five well deserved stars! read more

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Back in may, we wanted to try Karuna's but unfortunately went when it was closed. This time around, Thinh, Shreya, and I were able to get a taste of what this place has to offer and left with full, satisfied bellies. The pad thai was our favorite, a perfect savory flavor topped with a generous amount of peanuts. The food was so good that Shreya forgot where we were headed on the way to class, a clear sign of the classic food coma. Definitely recommend to anyone looking for a cozy atmosphere with good comfort food! read more

Karuna's Thai Plate - Thai Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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favorite thai food in tucson!! the pad see ew is incredible, very well seasoned and all ingredients are perfectly cooked! I absolutely love their thai tea. The pad thai is also delicious however the spicy is SPICY so just watch out when ordering! Great service and a nice little spot to eat. read more

Karuna's Thai Plate - pad see ew - Thai Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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I came to Karuna's because I was seeking a particular yellow curry soup with coconut milk, potato, onion and carrot. On their website http://www.karunasthaiplate.com I found just that. The name of the curry is: Gang Garee and was advertised online for a price of $10.25 with choice of chicken, beef, or pork. && $12.95 for shrimp. Once I arrived to Karuna's I learned the menu prices are different. The updated prices are: Choice of chicken, pork, or tofu $14.95 | Beef or shrimp $15.95 plus taxes. These prices also include the white rice. I give the Gang Garee 5 stars because it provided exactly what I was seeking in flavor, texture, and quality. read more

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Located in the Grant and Campbell Plaza, this small Thai restaurant is a treat. I've been here a few times and have enjoyed all the dishes I've ordered. I've had the pad see eww, pineapple fried rice, and panang curry and enjoyed each of them. Parking can be a bit tricky (it's limited and there's other restaurants around), but this place is great! read more

Decent food, but you can rarely get anyone to answer the phone when you want to place an order.

Great food. Pad Thai very good. Great service too. I liked what I got for food and I have nothing else to say

Karuna's has finally reopened and I was very glad. We went on a Sat evening at 530. In my opinion this is one of the best Thai restaurants in Tucson. Pad Thai is amazing. Small little restaurant with good service. Recommended. read more

This good is delicious, even my toddler likes to eat here. The food is fresh, they serve you plenty of it, and it tastes great!

Food was good. Had the pad Thai with medium heat. Price was a little high but portion was generous. Service was excellent. I had a very persnickety friend with me (long story) who required more patience than a mere mortal can muster. These folks were so kind and tolerant of her many requests. Definitely recommend this establishment! read more

big portions, quick service, many people, fresh ingredients. forget that ten dollar pizza slice next door!!!! Go here its so much better. read more

We got take out, green curry, and it was really good. It was actually spicy when ordered "hot" which is surprising!

Really enjoyed my meal here! I got the pad kee mao. It wasn't anything like pad kee mao elsewhere (it has thin noodles and a totally different sauce). I ordered it hot, and it had a nice kick but next time I'll order it Thai hot. Looking forward to going back again! read more

I like thai. They good Thai good price. Repeat customer we like. Want eat here sunday lunch but sign close door no open

The food here is pretty standard, definitely the most affordable Thai place in town. However, they never answer the phone! If we are looking to dine out, this is a good option. But ordering take out? We pick somewhere else because it's hard to get them to pick up the phone. read more

Great little hole in the wall, it filled up fast, I don't think they were expecting that. Luckily we arrived before the dinner rush Food was great, clean but small space ... the park lot was a confusing nightmare. Enter in the correct driveway. I'd go back for sure.... But early!!!! read more

Food is consistently fresh and excellent, service is superb and friendly. Prices are exceptionally reasonable.

AMAZING. Loved everything about this place. The food, service and vibe was all exceptional. Can't wait to come back!! The steamed spring rolls and Thai iced tea are a must. read more

Karuna's Thai Plate - Pad see EWE #30 - Thai Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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I tried a soup and a curry, forgot which I ordered exactly but the food was overall good. The waitress was friendly as well, a few of the ladies I spoke to there were very warm and friendly. I would go back! read more

Karuna's Thai Plate - Soup - Thai Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

Food was excellent...flavorful .robust..delicious !can't wait to go back.Friendly service... cozy and inviting.. read more

I pass this place often. I decided to try them to go today. I placed an order over the phone for pick up. It was ready when I arrived. I did the number 49 (sautéed broccoli, I got it with beef, medium spice, no cashews. Good flavor. I enjoyed it ). It Comes with a side of white rice. I definitely plan to go back and check out their other dishes. The Staff was friendly and welcoming. Just beware that they have a small parking lot That they share with other businesses, so parking may be hard to find read more

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Really good Thai food- excellent service - our go to place for Thai- the pad Thai is delicious- working my way through the curry dishes- love this place read more

Very clean but unassuming place. The flavor and food is incredible. Always a solid choice for delicious Thai.

I have been eating here for decades! Love their egg rolls, and Pad Thai. The service is always good. It is small and fills up fast, so get there early. It is overall a great Tucson spot . Highly recommend! read more

Tom Ka Gai soup is pretty damn good. Curry chicken is also solid and they make it as spicy or miild as you like. My favorite thai spot in Tucson. read more

First things first; Karuna's has great food. We ordered the Pad Thai and a coconut Duck curry. While there was a bit of a wait it was worth it! The Pad Thai was vibrant and fresh. You could taste the fish sauce throughout and the noodles were cooked well. The duck was delicious! I only wish I had more in the dish. The sauce had a beautiful creamy texture and I found myself scraping the bowl for every bit of it. The only note I would make that keeps Karuna's Thai out of a 5 star review is the atmosphere. It's a small space so at times it was almost too quiet. The lighting was also a bit harsh for my liking on a romantic Friday night date. Lastly there is a large working table full of to-go boxes, table settings etc that I would rather have not displayed in the dining room. All in all if you're looking for great food without any frills come! It's not a pretentious restaurant, and it's priority is on the food will have you coming back for more. read more

5 stars for the food 2 stars for the experience. We LOVE Thai food and were so excited to finally go to Karuna. It was not our lucky day. They were down 2 cooks and 2 servers, leaving one woman to attend to the whole restaurant. We sat there for nearly 45 minutes before the food came out in drips and drabs. Luckily the tepid dishes were very very tasty! The table next to us was sitting for 45 minutes waiting for tea. The table on the other side of us left. It was a terrible night for Karuna. However, one must wonder how the employees really feel, if they would leave them in a situation like that. Clearly morale is low which makes a diner nervous to eat food from angry, overworked and disrespected employees...so I will have to sit future visits out until, things get better in the back. read more

It is difficult to find good authentic Thai food in Tucson. Karunas is the only Thai restaurant that I trust. It has never failed me. The people who work there are extremely kind people and are always welcoming. I have gone here countless amounts of times and every time the food tastes great. This place is consistent and affordable. I recommend!! read more

We moved here 2 years ago. One of our top favorite cuisines is Thai food. Our friend who has lived here 35 years said "there's no good thai in Tucson ". So we didn't even really try and look for Thai food: Too bad we waited two years to find Karuna's! We did take out tonight for the first time and the food was in the top 2-3 Thai restaurants we have eaten at. Fresh lemon grass and Galangal root in the Tom Ka soup was the introduction to an excellent meal! They were extra busy tonight due to the gem show being in town the order took 35 minutes. The young woman who checked us out at the register was so sweet and obviously tired from her busy night. Impressed with her care for customer service even in difficult conditions. If anyone tells you, there's no good thai and Tucson tell them about this restaurant! read more

Karuna's has is an awesome spot for Bangkok-style food. They always are friendly when we dine in or take out. We enjoy their Pad Thai and Pad See Ewe. Their dishes are full of flavor and the portions are generous. It's easy to see how this restaurant has been around for over 25 years! read more

As soon as I heard Karuna's reopened I had to go that same day because I was going though some serious Tom Kha withdrawal. It's like they read my mind that I was coming because the serving size was plentiful and definitely worth sharing. Even though my eyes were bigger than my stomach, the soup was too legit to quit eating because it has a generous amount of mushrooms, tofu, and galangal. It strikes the delicate balance of being creamy and soupy but also not too much of one or the other. Tom Kha is definitely the highlight of the menu but don't sleep on their pad see ewe. It can be made by made vegan by substituting the meat for tofu. The indoor space is small and sounds reverberate so it's not the best place to carry on a conversation. My preference is to order to go. read more

Karuna's Thai Plate - #35 - Pad Kee Mao - Thai Near Me - Tucson, Arizona