thai
Amarin Thai
This charming Thai restaurant right across from the Monterey Bay Aquarium serves delicious spicy curries, light creamy soups and fresh seafood dishes with local wines to match. The fiery kra pow with seafood is a special treat. 807 Cannery Row, Monterey, 373-8811.
Baan Thai
Also known as Barn Thai due to a typo in the original sign, Baan Thai is known locally for its heaping helpings and fiery homegrown chiles. 1760 Fremont Blvd., Seaside, 394-2996.
My Thai Cuisine
Dusit “Sam” Bhundhumani’s delightfully authentic Thai bungalow just across from English Ales Brewery is a beloved institution in Marina. Fresh homemade specialties mine rich Thai traditions, resulting in lively, abundantly flavorful dishes. 210 Reindollar Ave., Marina, 883-9677.
Siamese Bay
Open for lunch and dinner daily, Siamese Bay offers some of the best traditional Thai food to be found in the area. And if you’re looking for a filling lunch, the buffet is served Monday through Friday. 131 Webster St., Monterey, 373-1550.
Thai Bistro II
Thai Bistro is the go-to place for chile lovers, but with an extensive selection of curries and seafood, it caters to the faintest of palates as well as the bravest cast-iron mouths. A popular item is the tomkha gai, a chicken soup with coconut milk. 159 Central Ave., Pacific Grove, 372-8700.
