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Welcome to TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST
TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST, nestled at 527 University Ave, San Diego, is a culinary gem celebrated for its authentic Thai cuisine. Diners rave about the vibrant flavors and impeccable presentation of dishes like the crispy whole fish with ginger sauce and classic Pad Thai, making each meal feel like a comforting embrace. The warm, accommodating staff enhance the experience, ensuring every guest feels at home. Highlights include the delightful garlic wings and the refreshing Thai iced tea. Whether indulging in comfort food or exploring the menu’s diversity, TASTE OF THAI is a must-visit for Thai food enthusiasts in Hillcrest.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Spicy Noodles
Thai Asparagus
Honey
Sticky Rice
About
TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST
If you find yourself in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, San Diego, make sure to stop by TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST, located at 527 University Ave. This tantalizing eatery has quickly become a local favorite, where every dish is a celebration of authentic Thai flavors.
Walking in, you’re greeted by an inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the delightful aroma wafting from the kitchen. The décor is simple yet charming, creating a comfortable space to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Kevin Courcey speaks volumes about the restaurant's commitment to authenticity, highlighting how dishes like perfect dumplings, fragrant Tom Kah soup, and expertly prepared Pad Thai can make you feel right at home.
Among the highlights, the garlic wings stand out as a flavorful starter, according to Beullah Escalante, who recommends them as a sharable delight perfect for any group. The fried whole fish draped in a ginger sauce is another culinary triumph, boasting a crispy exterior and complemented by a colorful medley of veggies and Chinese mushrooms. These dishes perfectly capture the essence of Thai cuisine—fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor.
For dessert, the classic mango sticky rice comes highly recommended, even when mangoes are out of season. It offers a deliciously sweet experience, subtly flavored with lavender, providing a captivating finish to your meal. Breana McGowan recently raved about the restaurant's takeout, noting that their Pad Thai is some of the best she’s ever had, showcasing the consistency in quality even on busy nights.
The attentive yet unobtrusive service enhances the dining experience. Whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion, the staff ensures you feel welcomed and taken care of throughout your visit. The feedback from diners like Thomas Meagher reflects this commitment, emphasizing the balanced interaction with staff that makes meals enjoyable.
Parking might be a bit challenging, but the reward is worth the effort. With a complete Thai menu featuring enticing dishes like spiced noodles and fresh spring rolls, TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST promises an unforgettable dining experience. As John Bathke notes, the rich flavors and beautifully crafted offerings will surely make your visit memorable.
So, if you're craving authentic Thai food that captivates the palate and warms the heart, head over to TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST. Your taste buds will thank you!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ When we go to a new place, we search for two types of restaurants: a NY style pizza place, and a good Thai restaurant. Fortunately, we found Taste of Thai on this extended stay in San Diego. The food is authentic, nicely presented and absolutely fresh and delicious. Finding perfect dumplings, a nice Tom Kah soup, and perfect Pad Thai makes a place feel like a home. I highly recommend this restaurant. ”
“ Party of 2 hungry people Food: Starter- ordered the garlic wings, delish! Can't go wrong, I think it came with 6-8 pieces so good to share with a group. Chrispy and yummy! Goes great with their array of sauces. Entree- we ordered the fried whole fish. Ginger. The sauce was delicious, and tasted like your traditional Thai flavors. It came with different kinds of veggies and Chinese mushrooms. Underneath the sauce is a nicely scored fish that's fried to a crisp, soooo good! Good to share between 3-4 people depending on how hungry you are. Great with white rice. Dessert: we went with the classic mango sticky rice, we know it's not in season but they had sweet mangoes for some reason, it was a good portion knowing that we ate so much of the entree, and had very little room for dessert. It had a mild to mod lavender? Taste? It was new but not bad! Service: everyone really nice and accommodating! 10/10 love the staff! Highly recommend if you're in hillcrest and craving traditional Thai dishes ”
“ This is one of our top spots in town for Thai food. 9/10 times we are happy but they have their off nights. Last night, we got take out since we just got off a flight. It was the best they have ever made for us. The pad Thai was the best we have ever had. The drunken noodles weren’t as great as usual. We tried the Thai asparagus for the first time and it was delicious. ”
“ Really tasty food and a very nice atmosphere. Waitress didn’t constantly check in which we appreciate but was easily reachable when we needed her. We split one appetizer and entree and felt fulfilled ”
“ Great Thai restaurant. Located in Hillcrest, this establishment serves delicious Thai food. We ordered the spicy noodles, rahd nar noodles, and the fresh spring rolls -- all flavorful. Their Thai iced tea was appetizing as well. They have a very complete Thai menu. Parking is little tight, so you may have to drive a little bit. But, overall, I recommend this Thai restaurant. ”
“ This is a great place to have a delicious dinner with an authentic taste. My favorite dish is green curry with roasted duck. Nothing beats their delicious sticky mango desserts. This has been one of my families get go Thai dinner places since I was little. Therefore, sometimes when I return from a trip love to order their coconut soup to comfort me. ”
“ Food and service is incredible. Long time ago I came for my birthday and left hungry because the dish I ordered was not to my liking. Recently my brother invited me to give it another chance. He ordered items from the menu and I love this place. I’ve returned and will keep coming back. So good. Staff is friendly as well. Parking can be a bit tricky but it is Hillcrest (: ”
“ This is an institution that’s been here for at least 20 years. They always play classical music. The food is top notch (and excellent lunch specials). Service is fantastic. Great quiet atmosphere. Top notch. Edit: They no longer have the lunch specials, but an entree with rice is around 13-16 and is more than I can eat at one setting. Their iced tea is heavenly...appears to be fresh brewed and my glass never ran dry with frequent refills. ”