Luv2eat Thai Bistro

"We wouldn’t fault you for assuming Luv2Eat Express was just a takeout version of its famous sibling. We kind of did. But once you’re inside this tiny Hollywood spot, you’ll realize it’s a different concept altogether: a steam table setup serving Southern Thai curries and stir-fries. Ordering is done cafeteria-style: pick a combo plate ($18 for three dishes with jasmine rice is a perfect lunch) then choose from a dozen options like Phuket braised pork belly and sour yellow curry with bamboo. Every dish is incredibly flavorful, and often, incredibly spicy. So much so there’s a “caution of spiciness” sign taped on the wall. Proceed accordingly, and grab a Thai iced tea from the cooler in case of emergency." - brant cox, arden shore, garrett snyder, sylvio martins

"There’s something about curry in the comforts of home that just never gets old. Luckily, the dishes at Thai standby Luv2Eat stand up to takeout, and the portions are often large enough to have leftovers. Start with pad see ew, or pad Thai, before adding in curry, tom kha, and other Thai classics. Make sure to add the jade noodles topped with barbecue pork, crispy pork, and roasted duck. If looking for another takeout option from Luv2Eat, head next door to Thai Street Food by Luv2Eat Express, where the same team is dishing up Southern Thai curries, braised beef noodles, and more. Order pick-up or delivery on Uber Eats." - Rebecca Roland

"Something that makes LA stand out as a Thai dining destination are the specific, regional options that can be found. Yes, you can find standard fare like papaya salad and pan-fried noodles at Luv2Eat. But the restaurant fully shines where it leans into its Phuket roots with Hat Yai fried chicken, spicy crab curry, and shrimp paste fried rice complete with a fried mackerel. The flavors are spicy and uncompromising; food that truly transports you to the sleepy villages and beaches of the Southern Thailand." - Kat Thompson

"Some of LA’s best Thai food can actually be found a few miles away from Thai Town at strip mall favorite Luv2Eat. The restaurant comes from co-owners Noree “Pla” Burapapituk and Somruthai “Fern” Kaewtathip who have built a cult following for dishes like Phuket-style crab curry, jade noodles topped with crispy pork and roasted duck, and spiced pineapple fried rice. The restaurant has recently expanded into the space next door with Luv2Eat Express, a lunch plate restaurant serving Thai street food. The strip mall parking lot is tiny and fills up quickly; the street may offer better options, but keep an eye on parking signs." - Rebecca Roland, Matthew Kang

"Known for its Thai cuisine, favored by Rebecca Roland." - Eater Staff