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This place is a solid 4 stars in my book. The flavors are delicious and mild may still be a bit spicy to those who prefer "mild". Taking one star off for the Mango sticky rice. It lacked flavor and the condense milk that drapes the rice soaked very quickly and was not enough to give it a dessert flavor. My suggestion would be to have it on the side and let customers pour it onto the rice themselves, and give it a bit more than what it comes with. Overall, super yummy
The last two times we were there it was wonderful. However, for an anniversary lunch yesterday, (indigenous peoples day), we were disappointed. No lunch specials on a holiday the curt waitress told us when asking what we wanted to order. I think that could have been posted on the menues or at the front door. The place was busy and the noise was stifling...no it was NOT a cozy feeling. The fried shrimp appetizer was Overcooked, so beyond crispy. The green papaya salad was so spicy that the interesting flavors that are often the case with this item made for any other flavor to be lost. The Pra ram was its usual - Outstanding! Yes, we will return but certainly hope that this holiday outing was an exception - it was not a good experience.
The food at Laos Kitchen is amazing! Everything was light and fresh and the three of us devoured all of it! We ordered the Pun Khao Poon platter (lettuce wraps) with pork springrolls, pad thai with chicken, and the mango salad. The portions were very generous. The mango salad was the highlight of the meal, followed by the lettuce wraps. The dressing in the mango salad had just the right combination of sweet and tangy. We loved the addition of mint for the wraps, but I personally don't care for perilla leaves. The fish sauce accompanying the wraps was delicious and was also great over the pad thai, which was a bit on the bland side without it. Service was a bit less than perfect. When one diner asked for water, only her glass was refilled when another glass was obviously in need also; minor overlook, though. The one thing that was a bit disturbing was the noise level. It was extremely loud, so it was really difficult to hear each other talk. It didn't help that the party at the next table had a woman who cackled loudly when she laughed. It was a relief to step outside after we ate. Not sure what can be done to help with this, but it did make dining there not as pleasant as it could be. Even with this, I'd definitely return if I was in the area.
I was excited to find a Lao/Thai restaurant in this part of the Bay and had to try it after a day at the French Market. We ordered the Lao-style beef larb with tripe, Lao-style papaya salad, sticky rice, and the yellow chicken curry with jasmine rice. The restaurant was clean, service was okay, and our food came out quickly. The portions were generous. My partner really enjoyed the yellow curry, though I found it a little sweeter than I prefer. Growing up eating Lao food, I was hoping for a bit more authenticity. The beef larb could have used more fresh herbs and bitterness, while the papaya salad lacked some of the pungent, funky flavors that make Lao papaya salad so memorable. Both dishes were good, but they felt toned down for a broader audience. Overall, it's a solid spot with flavorful food and generous portions. I'd definitely come back to try more of the menu.
Love it love it love it!!! Love the layout and decoration not to mention how friendly the staff were. Food wise, omg to die for! We got a combination of BBQ pork with papaya salad and black sticky rice and we asked if I could add one more Lao style papaya salad into it and she said 'yes!!' Also Nam Kao Tod and beef jerky were so tasty!! Would totally recommend this place!
A very popular place. I chose the special plate called Pun Khao Poon--or was so much fun to make my own lettuce wraps! It included ingredients I've not had before (always a thrill!) including fresh coriander herbs and green-striped skinned Thai eggplant. Also included were delicately-flavored julienned ginger, vermicelli noodles. I also chose grilled salmon. The ambiance was lovely. There were about a half dozen 1-foot spongy squares on the ceiling that usually serve as sound dampeners. I'd recommend a few more to help with the sound level. The light fixtures are lovely--see photos. The patrons are very friendly and will make pleasant comments. Service was pleasant and attentive.
My friend and I were looking for a place to eat after getting some Matcha. She decided on this place because we were looking into Lao or Thai food. So we ended up here. We parked a block away and just walked there. We were greeted as soon as we got in and received water. They menu was curated and easy to read. We ended up getting something simple because we had to be somewhere. We ended up getting some Pad See Ew and Pad thai. It was hella refreshing and good. I would come here again.
I was looking for local Thai food to find a new "go to" locally, and came across this Laos food spot - named Laos. I felt compelled to stop in and try lunch. San Rafael 4th street has a lot to offer - and it's worth checking these spots out. The storefront is inviting and the inside of the restaurant is clean and well organized and appointed. The wine and beer list has few choices - and I would encourage a little more local variety to make it inviting to a wine lover like myself. I was efficiently approached by wait staff and felt welcomed I ordered Pad Woon Sen, which I've never before tried. The food came quickly - a beautiful dish of thin noodles and mushrooms with onions and celery adorned with steak. I finished my plate. Perfect lunch portion. Attentive service. The taste of quality ingredients and pride in their efforts. I will add this to my go-to spots in San Rafael!
A downtown San Rafael gem that deserves more attention! Laos Kitchen sits right on 4th Street in the heart of downtown San Rafael, and it's one of those places that feels like a delightful discovery. It's the kind of spot you want to keep coming back to. The atmosphere strikes a nice balance: casual and welcoming, with enough space to accommodate groups without losing that cozy, neighborhood feel. There's a steady stream of diners, but it never feels rushed or overcrowded. The staff is genuinely friendly and attentive, happy to guide you through the menu without hovering. Speaking of the menu, there's plenty to choose from. The curry puffs (think Laotian-style samosas) are an absolute must. They're crispy, flavorful, and the perfect way to start your meal. The grill plates are equally impressive, with well-seasoned meats and generous portions that leave you satisfied but not overstuffed. Parking is surprisingly easy for downtown with plenty of street spots nearby, and a couple of garages within walking distance. The meters shut off at 6pm, so dinner here is especially convenient. Whether you're looking for a casual dinner with friends or a relaxed meal after exploring downtown, Laos Kitchen delivers. Honestly, exactly the kind of approachable, quality spot San Rafael needs more of. I'll definitely be back for the curry puffs, the grill plates, or maybe something new.
Fantastic Thai/Lao restaurant on 4th street in downtown San Rafael. Loved the abundance of live orchids and tropical plants inside as well as the decor. It was a busy evening so the only seats we were offered were sharing a table with what looked like a first date (awkward) or sitting along the from window facing outwards. Choosing the latter, we would have occasional eye contact with everyone that happened to be walking by. That proved to make for an entertaining dining experience. We ordered the Spicy Green Beans with tofu ($16) described as deep-fried green beans sauteed with garlic, chili paste, basil, lime leaves, and bell peppers. OMG I loved this dish. The beans had just the right amount of crunch to them and the tofu had a sautéed exterior while soft inside. Also had the Pad Kee Mao, aka Drunken Noodles, ($16) with chicken. The rice noodles were not soggy in the least and chicken was tender. Saw two young men get into their car and while making eye contact, one of them started twerking right in front of me. We both had a good laugh. I would've invited the young gentleman to join me inside for a drink but daughter would have been horrified. Sadly I removed a star because my pet peeve is when establishments add tip on top of the taxed amount, it should be on top of the food amount. Why would I pay tip on top of a tax? Although the small print on the bill says that the tip amount is based off the food and taxed amount, if you don't read it you wouldn't know.
The food was okay, not exceptional. Service was good. Ambience was beautiful and very relaxing . One menu stated their Tom Yum has pineapple (really?!?) in it while another menu didn't mention "pineapple" in the Tom Yum's description. I specifically told the waitress NOT to put pineapple in the Tom Yum we ordered. Was served with Tom Yum; lo and behold - there were pineapple bits in it! Had to ask the waitress to bring us the right Tom Yum we ordered.
I recently visited this Loas Kitchen and overall had a pleasant experience. The food was flavorful and tasted freshly prepared, with authentic Thai spices. Every dish arrived hot and perfectly presented. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel welcome. The staff checked in regularly without being intrusive. However, the only downside was the noticeable smell upon entering the restaurant. It wasn't unpleasant enough to ruin the meal but was strong and a little distracting. Once seated, the atmosphere felt cozy and comfortable. Prices were reasonable for the quality of food and service provided.
My mom wanted to take her friends for lunch. They ended up choosing Laos Kitchen again for the second time. What is good about this place ? Let me tell you! The food is Amazing with authentic Thai-Laos style. Also they have one Vietnamese dish as well. We are all neighbor in Southeast Asia. As they bring all culture in their cuisine , so it easy choice to come here and can taste them all. The services were amazing. The waitress/waiter were so helpful and friendly. We definitely will be back there again soon.
Cute place and checked it out with friends for lunch. Great menu with tons of dairy free and gluten free options that are well labeled. I tried the pork larb and was delicious. It had good flavor and decent portion. Friends had the mango salad and spring rolls. The salad was fresh and light, also a good portion. The spring rolls were so good and everything really fresh. I also like how every dish you could choose spice level of mild, medium, and hot. The medium wasn't too spicy but still flavorful. Servers were attentive and very nice. I'd come back again if in the area and recommend read more
Yummy! What a delightful little spot. The fried chicken plate, the yellow curry, and the pineapple fried rice were all delicious. The decor is homey and comfy. The two women who were waiting on the tables were delightful...courteous and hard-working. Kudos to them! read more
8 months ago
Good for takeout, would like to dine in & try other things on the menu next time. Fried rice was good, not greasy at all! (4/5) Curry puffs- okay, but I'd pass on that next time (2/5) Sticky rice in the menu and steamed in with banana leaf (3.5/5) Pad woon sen (stir fried silver noodle)- haven't seen this on a menu anywhere so I had to try it. No complaints (4/5) Prices are average, clean restaurant, friendly staff. Worth a shot if you're in the area I'd like to try the sausage and salads (nam Kao and laab) next time read more
This place is amazing! Staff are nice, the food is delicious and ambiance is on point to enjoy a meal in. The crispy chicken combo is one of my favorite meals and I consider it my usual. I just tried the chicken eggplant, it's really good too. I highly recommend this place! read more
Stopped here with my family as we were passing through and craving some Thai food. We started off with the curry puffs. The breading of it was very fluffy and tasted great with the peanut sauce. My parents loved the little salad it came with. We got the pad see ew with tofu and yellow curry with tofu for our mains (order rice separate on weekends) and very much enjoyed them. They hit the flavors perfectly here. Our server was very kind and they were all very attentive. Great spot to go if you want to satisfy your Thai food craving! read more
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Delicious food, friendly service, relaxed atmosphere. Pad Kee Mao, Pad See Ew, fried rolls, and Thai iced tea -- 5/5 FANTASTIC! Tom Ka soup -- 3/3 Overall, a great experience and we'd definitely come back! It seems maybe a little understaffed, but employees are genuinely trying their best to serve everyone as quickly as possible. And their friendly and accommodating service definitely makes up for it! Would definitely support and recommend this Lao family business!!! read more
10 months ago
3 years ago
The food was EXCELLENT! Enjoyed the Laos sausage as an appetizer, shared the combo fried chicken plate and the combo noodle soup! Their fried rice could stand on their own. Wonderful flavors. Their coconut chicken curry soup was so flavorful with a good balance of their herbs and spices. Could have used white rice with it. The noodle soup was clean and refreshing. The pork was a great addition and texture difference. Definitely we'll return.....tomorrow, if we could. read more
Delicious lunch here! The food tasted refreshing and bright. The veggies were particularly great. Ambiance is lovely, and the the service excellent. We came for lunch on a weekend, and didn't know rice plates are only for weekdays. Was disappointed by that, and didn't see that on the menu that was presented. Will definitely come back for lunch.... on a weekday! read more
3 years ago
Wow, best new restaurant in San Rafael in a long time. Bold flavors, stylish atmosphere, nice service. And surprisingly inexpensive. Great addition to the Marin dining scene! read more
Living in Marin as a Laotian gal and not having proper Laotian food is tough! Thai food is great, don't get me wrong, but Laotian food hits different! Ambiance was great, service was awesome, and food came out fairly quick! Here is what we ordered: Sai oua (Lao sausage): 5/5 Exterior has a nice snap/crisp and interior is full of savory herby flavor. Grew up eating this with sticky rice, jeow mak len (tomato dipping sauce) and steamed vegetables. Highly recommend getting this and sharing with friends, or eating this as a main dish with a side of sticky rice and eat it the Laotian way-- with your hands! Fresh spring rolls: 4.75/5 Made fresh! I chose chicken satay as my meat option and loved it. I could eat an order of this and call it a day if I am craving something light and fresh! The peanut sauce...oh my gosh amazing. It's like a blend of peanut and sesame dressing, AMAZING! Khao poon: 4.75/5 This is a classic dish my mom makes all the time whenever I go back home. I was so excited to see it on the menu, I had to order it. And let me tell you....RICH RICH RICH...in the best way possible of course. A spoon of this in your mouth and you almost melt like butter. The depth of flavor in this broth left my hubs and I speechless. Highly recommend adding a squeeze of lime and chili oil to this to take it to the next level. Hubs loved it so much that he took the left over broth home! Ha! Combo plate #2: 5/5 the perfect trifecta right here...sticky rice, grilled protein, and papaya salad. Probably the most common set you'd see in any Laotian household. The grilled pork and chicken were cooked to perfection with a grilled flavor. Papaya salad (Laos style) is more fermented so theres an umami spicy punch that pairs perfectly with this set. Overall, I am over the moon with this restaurant! I cannot wait to everything else on their menu! Looking forward to becoming a regular! read more
2 years ago
Delicious food, friendly service, lovely flower decorations. Plating of the food makes me want to take photos. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
Yelps Top 10 Thai- Laos restaurant! CONGRATS! This is well earned your service and food is on of a kind. The best thing it all made fresh & with love... read more
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2 years ago
Man oh man where to begin? La's kitchen was fantastic. For Friday night dinner the place was packed. We had to wait for around 30 minutes to be seated, but it was so well worth the wait. We came in thirsty so we ordered a passionfruit juice and a tamarin soda. The tamarin soda was perfectly bubbly with slightly sweet tamarind flavor, and the passionfruit was super sweet, but super flavorful. I only wish that I had ordered some soda water to go with the passionfruit juice, because it would've been even more delicious, had it been sparkling. We ordered the curry puffs which came with a classic peanut sauce and fresh cucumber salad. We also ordered the Tom Kha (a spicy sour coconut cream soup) with prawns (the prawns were overcooked so next time I will get the chicken because the soup is so (temperature) hot, so it may be unavoidable). My favorite entrée by far at any Laos restaurant is Nam Khao. The salad has Laos sausage and crispy. Rice balls served with lime on Romain lettuce boats. Nam Khao always hits the spot. It's one of those dishes that feeds your soul as well as your stomach. We ended our meal with bites of mango sticky rice featuring purple rice, and sweetened coconut cream. We didn't eat all of any of the dishes, because we wanted to taste and enjoy everything, but even still it would've been too much food for just two people. Thank you,Laos Kitchen for a perfect dinner date. 5 stars, and we will definitely come back next time we're in the area! read more
2 years ago
We were walking to find a place for dinner as we like to do drop ins and check places out when we ran across this restaurant and decided to have dinner. It was happening and the vibe was to my liking. The food was amazing!!! We will definitely be back soon read more
3 years ago
Came here for lunch on a very warm day. The atmosphere indoors was cool, inviting and modernly appointed. Good first impression. With just me and a friend, we decided to oder two dishes to share. The servings here almost demand sharing, as they're too much for one normal appetite to consume. Looking around, we saw other patrons enjoying heaping piles of delicious looking plates. We opted for the glass noodle, prawn, chopped chicken and vegetable salad in a delicious lime style dressing. Medium please. Adding hot sauce is an option, but be warned their hot sauces are exactly that. The salad with its pile of the freshest ingredients, was superb, especially as a summer lunch item Doing it backwards, I suppose, our second dish was the spring rolls with prawns (again). These were the largest rolls I've ever seen in an Asian restaurant. So again, bring an appetite! They were accompanied by a creamy slightly sweet peanut sauce often served with chicken satay. Our server, a sweet young woman, was efficient and polite. She was highly attentive without being obtrusive. The Thai ice tea was also huge. Go for it! The only "dings" were the bench seats along the walls are quite hard. An addition of a long cushion or other upholstery would be welcome and encourage diners to stay longer. Also, the sound level can get loud, something the management has attempted to address with sound baffling tiles on the ceiling. Alas, more is needed. Overall from one visit, I'd definitely come again, as other menus items looked awesome. Service, ambience and food quality all top rate. read more
3 years ago
Pad Thai and green curry received high praise for the depth of flavor. All of the vegetables were lightly cooked in the best way - not mushy at all. Portions were super generous. We came at 8 pm on a weekday, it was still quite busy and a little too loud for a comfortable conversation. Service was really attentive and proactive in checking in, refilling our water glasses, etc. A few tiny details detracted from the meal for me. The water tasted off? Like it hadn't been well filtered or chilled. I had the same experience with my tea and the bamboo shoots, which retained their very canned flavor. Even ice in the glass would have helped. read more
3 years ago
Have you ever been somewhere where literally everything on their menu is amazing? I am so glad this place opened up here in San Rafael. Laos Kitchen offers familiar food with their unique twist on flavors delivering consistent delicious food. The ambiance is warm and well decorated, this staff is friendly and attentive making this a destination to eat at, not just a take out spot. For those that are gluten free the whole menu reads like a dream for you folks. For those that usually shun gluten feee food like myself, don't worry, if it didn't say it on the menu you'd never know. Bottom line is this place is not to be missed! read more
4 years ago
Great new restaurant in San Rafael. We were visiting relatives and decided to have dinner here. Called ahead to reserve a table for 8 on a Friday night. We were seated immediately on arrival. The food was delicious and nicely presented. We ordered: Lao Sausage (very tasty!) Papaya salad (Lao Style) BBQ beef Yellow curry with chicken Larb (Lao style) - this was my favorite Pineapple fried rice I was so eager to eat, forgot to take pictures! The restaurant is nicely decorated and clean. Service was great. There was a steady flow of customers throughout the time we were there. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
More info about Laos Kitchen
887 4th St
San Rafael, CA 94901
Directions
(415) 456-4490
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https://www.laoskitchensanrafael.com
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