Jessica W.
Yelp
Erawan Thai - Authentic Thai & Vietnamese Cuisine
First Impressions & Ambiance
Erawan Thai has turned into one of my reliable comfort spots when I'm craving fresh, flavorful Thai dishes in a laid-back setting. This unassuming gem is tucked inside McThai Center, with a warm atmosphere that feels both casual and special. The decor is charming, featuring a traditional Thai-style wooden hut as a focal point, glass-covered tables, and classic Thai motifs. Every table is stocked with Sriracha, hoisin sauce, and chili paste so you can customize your meal to your taste.
Service can run a little slow, but it's clear everything is prepared fresh to order, which is worth the extra few minutes.
What We Ordered & Our Thoughts
Crab Rangoon
Crispy, golden, and shaped into delicate flower-like pockets. The filling leans more toward cream cheese than crab, so expect a sweeter bite. Pro tip: mix the shredded cabbage and carrot garnish into the sweet and sour sauce that comes on the side--it's surprisingly good and brightens everything up.
Rating: 3.5/5
Tom Yum Soup (#20, Chicken, Small Size)
The broth is bright and aromatic, layered with lemongrass, ginger, cilantro, and lime. It comes with plenty of tender chicken and chunky vegetables that make it feel hearty without being heavy. This is one of the dishes I've come to count on--always comforting and consistently flavorful over multiple visits.
Rating: 4/5
Thai Fried Rice (#58, Pork, Spice Level 2)
This dish has become a personal go-to. The rice is perfectly cooked--fluffy and never mushy--with tender pork and crisp vegetables. There's a subtle sweetness that balances beautifully with the mild spice.
Tip: Add a fried egg on top (not mixed in). It takes the dish to the next level.
Rating: 4.5/5
Pad Thai (#50, Beef)
Visually appealing, but the flavor didn't quite match the presentation. The noodles were too al dente (borderline crunchy), and the beef was just okay. Next time, I'd go with shrimp or chicken instead, or ask for the noodles cooked a bit softer.
Rating: 2.7/5 (rounded up to 3/5)
Basil Pork
A solid dish that's absolutely worth the price. It's filling, with plenty of fresh basil in every bite and lots of tender pork. The only drawback is it can get a bit oily at the bottom, so have extra rice ready to balance it out.
Rating: 3/5
Menu Variety & Pricing
Erawan offers an extensive selection of Thai and Vietnamese classics, including curries, stir-fries, soups, and noodle dishes. Most entrees range from $10-$20 depending on portion size and protein. Portions are generous and often leave you with leftovers.
Final Verdict
Erawan Thai has quickly become one of my go-to spots for dishes I can count on--especially the pork Thai fried rice and tom yum soup. Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of broth or a plate of flavorful rice, it's a reliable place with consistent quality and great value.
What I Love:
* Authentic flavors, especially in the soups and fried rice
* Cozy decor with thoughtful cultural touches
* Fair prices and generous portions
* The fried egg upgrade is a must-try
* The sweet and sour sauce with the rangoon is perfect
What Could Improve:
* Some dishes (like the Pad Thai) could use a little more finesse (softer noodles and a different protein)
* A bit of oiliness in certain stir-fries
* Service can be slow, but it's because everything is cooked to order
Overall Rating: 4/5
A great spot for comforting Thai soups, flavorful rice dishes, and a relaxed, authentic experience.