Thai Tom, nestled in Seattle's University District, is a beloved gem that captures the essence of authentic Thai street food with a twist. Known for its vibrant flavors and speedy service, Thai Tom features a concise menu that excels in classic dishes like Pad Thai and Panang Curry, each crafted to perfection. Patrons rave about the bustling, communal atmosphere, where the aroma of sizzling woks enhances the dining experience. With a cash-only policy and a cozy bar seating adjacent to the kitchen, guests can savor every flavor-packed bite while enjoying a true culinary spectacle. A must-visit for Thai food enthusiasts!
Amenities and More
Accessibility
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
On-site services available
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Serves organic dishes
Quick bite
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Usually has a wait
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Cash only
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid street parking
Difficult to find a space
Photos
Reviews For Thai Tom
Steve Midas
Mar 24,2025
The OG for Thai here in the U-District. If you went to school here, you know this spot.It's fast-paced street food. Restaurant prices with fast-food service. NOTE: They only take cash, so make sure you stop by the ATM before you pickup or dine-in. If you are looking for the true experience, sit at the "bar top" and be right next to the cook!Parking is on the street, and it's gonna be tough to find something on the Ave, so expect to walk a couple of blocks. The restaurant is a tight galley style space so expect a shoulder to shoulder experience. And you will definitely smell of the food.Food is consistent, and know they may run out of popular items like the fried rolls. Everything they pump out is good, with the spicy kick (or no spice) you ask for. The portions are good for the Seattle prices.Midas 5-stars for the food and street food experience.
Conner Jolly
Feb 25,2025
This is probably my favorite Thai place in Seattle and second in Washington.In particular the mango sticky rice is perfect. The mangos are just ripe enough to cut through them like soft butter with your fork and the sticky rice has an amazing consistency. I have never had a mango in the states that is actually this good.The pad see uh and phad Thai were both great as well. They cook over a flaming hot wok tight in front of you. We were so close that it was super hot (but still worth it). I don’t know how to describe it other than rustic.The speed was crazy fast once they got the food on the wok. To get in for a seat it was about 15m for 2 people or 5 for 1 but it didn’t look big enough for more than groups of 2. They also get your order as you wait to make everything even faster.They only take cash. It’s not a deal breaker since the prices are reasonable and the food is great. With fast and friendly service as well, this is a great place.
Garima Singhal
Feb 6,2025
You need to try this place. Best thai i have had in the area. There is always queue but it moves fast. They cook food in front of you and everything is really fresh. They accept only cash so please bring some. Also, they don't have thai ice tea on the menu but ask for it, it's really delicious. We orders pad see new again, Yellow curry, spring rolls, ice tea, and mango sticky rice. Everything was really delicious
Jose Mendez
Jan 20,2025
Hands down, probably the best Thai in Washington state… no contest. Service is fast and the ambiance is perfect and authentic. Cash only. Highly recommend #2 Spicy Noodles… and if you can handle, level 5 x Spice — very special dining experience
Daniel H
Jan 18,2025
Possibly the best Thai around? Great flavor, not too oily. Smaller menu, but hits all the classics. Smaller portion sizes than other places I think? But pretty good prices for the area. Try to sit at the bar to watch the cooks. Only bottles and cans.Had the basil chicken, pad thai and fried rice. I’d skip the fried rice (it’s good but get the noodles they are standouts). Love the basil chicken and the pad thai is really good.Order before you sit, cash only and don’t linger. I was disappointed to see the waitress hassle someone for a larger tip. Personally I think that the order and eat fast and leave nature of the restaurant doesn’t leave a lot to say about the service. It’s very efficient.
Olivia Carroll
Jan 16,2025
SO GOOD. The Thai tea and a chicken pad Thai is my go to. Very limited seating but it is a nice environment since you can watch the cooking happen. It does get a bit smoky inside though. The service is decent. The restaurant is cash only so come prepared, but the prices are reasonable.
Vanessa R.
Jan 11,2025
My friend and I were unsure where to eat, as we were walking down the street and sweet smell caught our attention and led us to Thai Tom. I had never had Thai food before. My friend and I ordered the panang curry with chicken. It was one of the best meals I ever had; it was a perfect balance of savory and spicy from the curry and sweet from the rice. It’s been 3 days since and I haven’t stopped thinking of that meal. Customer service there was great, we were informed right away that it was cash only. All the waiters were very attentive and kind. Prices are very reasonable, I only had 40 on me and I was able to pay for me and my friend’s meals. Overall, amazing experience.
Balu Chenicheri
Jan 4,2025
The food is just amazing - cooked right in front of you and so so tasty! Their pad thai with Thai ice tea was delicious! Note: they only take cash and their spice levels are 1, 2 levels higher so a 3 star is pretty spicy.
Reviews For Thai Tom