News Summary
Los Angeles has become a vibrant center for Thai cuisine, particularly in East Hollywood’s Thai Town, which celebrates the rich culinary traditions brought by the Thai community. The popularity of local restaurants like Mesa Thai has been bolstered by celebrity endorsements, including a recent visit from a member of the popular K-Pop group Blackpink. The city showcases a variety of regional Thai dishes, highlighting the cultural significance of this cuisine as it continues to thrive.
Los Angeles has become a vibrant hub for Thai cuisine, enriched by celebrity endorsements and its strong cultural significance. With the largest Thai population outside of Thailand, the city’s East Hollywood area boasts the only officially recognized Thai Town in the United States. The establishment of Thai Town can be traced back to the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which encouraged migration from Asia, paving the way for a rich tapestry of flavors and cooking styles.
Thai cuisine is marked by its diversity, showcasing micro-regional cooking styles that vary significantly across the country. L.A. patrons can enjoy a wide array of Thai flavors, including dishes representative of northern Thailand, such as sai ua (herbaceous sausage). Rice, a staple in Thai meals, is served in various forms: from crisped grains in salads and noodles to plain or sticky rice. Furthermore, the region’s curries display distinct flavor profiles that depend on the color and type of chiles used, adding to the complex taste experience.
An example of L.A.’s culinary scene in Thai cuisine is exemplified by the popular Jitlada restaurant, where patrons have the opportunity to try kua kling phat tha lung, regarded as one of the spiciest dishes on the menu. Notably, the article highlights a list of 15 favorite Thai dishes that represent the wide-ranging styles of Thai cuisine available in Los Angeles.
In addition to local restaurants, a notable Thai food court is located at the Wat Thai temple in Sun Valley, catering to the community’s love for authentic Thai food. Among the standout establishments is Mesa Thai, operated by chef Phitwasuphon “Ple” Thanaporn, who specializes in northeastern Isan cuisine. Mesa Thai has recently garnered attention following an unexpected visit from celebrity Blackpink member and actress Lisa (Lalisa) during her stay in Los Angeles ahead of the Coachella festival.
During her visit to Mesa Thai on March 22, Lisa ordered several dishes, including larb, pad thai Mesa, tom sap (northeastern pork rib soup), and yum ma muang (green mango salad). The surprise appearance led to an emotional reaction from chef Thanaporn, who was visibly moved by the celebrity’s presence in her restaurant.
The menu at Mesa Thai features a diverse range of Isan salads and papaya salads, including options with fermented fish and preserved crab. Lisa chose a medium-spicy mango salad, whereas traditional Isan dishes are known for their higher spice levels. Mesa Thai’s visually appealing chalkboard menu is written in colorful Thai script, showcasing the establishment’s authentic offerings and cultural roots.
Thanaporn’s culinary journey began when she offered her food from home, learning traditional recipes from her mother, who owned a street food stand in Bangkok. Her aim with Mesa Thai is to introduce diners to the authentic flavors of her heritage, and her dishes have received acclaim for their quality and taste. Following her initial visit, it is reported that Lisa returned the next day to order more pad thai and mango salad for takeout.
Located at 820 North Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, Mesa Thai operates from Tuesday to Sunday, remaining closed on Mondays. As Thai cuisine continues to thrive in Los Angeles, with increasing popularity fueled by celebrities and a connected community, the cultural significance of this rich culinary tradition is expected to grow, further celebrating Los Angeles as a prominent destination for food enthusiasts.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Best Thai Restaurants in Los Angeles
- Wikipedia: Thai Cuisine
- New York Times: Luv 2 Eat Express Thai Restaurant
- Google Search: Thai food Los Angeles
- Eater LA: Mesa Thai Celebrity Restaurant Sightings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thai Cuisine
- ABC7: Thai Cuisine Takes Center Stage in LA
- Google News: Los Angeles Thai Restaurants
- The Infatuation: Atsuko Okatsuka’s Favorite Places to Eat in LA
- Google Scholar: Thai Cuisine
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
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